Butternut Squash Soup with Grilled Cheese

Recipe by Oryana Staff Member, Ethan Colyer

Warm, comforting, and full of flavor, this Curried Butternut Squash Soup is a cozy fall favorite. Made with fresh, locally sourced squash and naturally sweet apples and pears, this recipe creates a creamy, aromatic bowl of goodness that’s perfect for chilly evenings or a light, nourishing meal.

The natural sweetness of roasted squash pairs perfectly with aromatic curry spices and a hint of jalapeño for warmth. It’s a soup that celebrates the best of seasonal produce, and it’s just as easy to make as it is delicious.

Pair it with a gooey grilled cheese or a slice of crusty sourdough for the ultimate comfort meal.

Ingredients:

  • Olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 Tbsp curry powder
  • 1 apple, peeled and chopped
  • 1 pear, peeled and chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
  • 32 oz vegetable broth (divided)
  • 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 can coconut milk

For Garnish:

  • Sour cream
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Toasted walnuts

Instructions:

  1. Start with your aromatics
    Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
  2. Sauté the onion
    Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring frequently, until translucent but not browned.
  3. Add garlic and curry powder
    Stir in the minced garlic and curry powder. Continue cooking for about 3 minutes, until fragrant and ingredients begin to stick slightly.
  4. Add fruit & heat
    Add the apple, pear, jalapeño, and enough vegetable broth to cover.
  5. Simmer
    Cover and cook for 10 minutes.
  6. Add squash
    Add the cubed butternut squash, season with salt, stir to coat, and cook for 5 minutes.
  7. Add coconut milk & remaining broth
    Pour in the coconut milk and additional broth. Bring to a low boil, then reduce to medium-low. Cover and simmer until the squash is fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
  8. Blend until smooth
    Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until creamy. (Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches, then return to the pot.)
  9. Taste & adjust
    Add more curry powder, salt, or pepper if needed.
  10. Serve & garnish
    Ladle the soup into bowls and top with sour cream, cilantro, and toasted walnuts.

Serving Suggestion:

Pair this soup with a grilled cheese sandwich made with aged cheddar, caramelized onions, roasted walnuts, and cherry jalapeño jelly for a rich, savory, and slightly spicy bite. The flavors balance beautifully with the warmth of the curry.