Butternut Squash Cheddar Soup
A cozy, savory butternut squash cheddar soup made with a can of beer for rich, pub-style flavor. Make it in the slow cooker or on the stovetop — perfect as a starter or with a sandwich and salad.
Ingredients
- 4heaping cups peeled butternut squash
cut into medium sized cubes
- 2 conion)
cut into large petals (basically just quarter the onions
- 4 clovesgarlic
- 112 oz can light beer)
i used non-alcoholic (or gluten-free beer
- 3 cchicken bone broth
or vegetable broth
- ½ tspsmoked paprika
- 2 tspdijon mustard
- 2 tspworcestershire sauce
- 1 ¾ tspkosher salt
- 3 sprigsfresh thyme
- 2 cshredded sharp cheddar
Directions
Slow cooker method:
- 1
Spray a medium-size skillet over medium-low heat with oil and add onion and garlic and sauté, stirring until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- 2
Add the butternut squash, beer, 3 cups chicken bone broth, smoked paprika, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire and salt and stir. Lay fresh thyme on top. Cover and cook on low setting for 7 to 8 hours.
- 3
When done, remove the thyme, add the cheddar cheese and blend with an immersion blender.
Stove top method:
- 1
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Spray with oil and add the onions and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- 2
Add the butternut squash, beer, 4 cups chicken broth instead of 3, smoked paprika, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire and salt, fresh thyme and stir. Bring to a boil then cover and cook on low 30 to 40 minutes, until the butternut squash is very tender.
- 3
When done, remove the thyme, add the cheddar cheese and blend with an immersion blender.
About this Recipe
Cozy Butternut Squash Cheddar Soup: A Pub-Style Delight
Embrace the ultimate comfort food with our incredible Butternut Squash Cheddar Soup! This isn't just any ordinary soup; it's a rich, savory bowl of goodness elevated with a surprising, yet utterly delicious, ingredient: a can of beer. This special addition infuses the soup with a deep, pub-style flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the butternut squash and the sharp tang of cheddar cheese.
Whether you're looking for an effortless weeknight meal or a comforting starter for a weekend gathering, this butternut squash soup delivers. It's incredibly versatile, offering both slow cooker and stovetop instructions to fit your schedule. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as tender butternut squash, sweet onions, and fragrant garlic meld together with savory bone broth and a hint of smoked paprika, all finished with creamy, melted cheddar.
What truly makes this recipe stand out is that subtle complexity from the beer, which adds a layer of richness without overpowering the natural flavors. For those needing a Gluten Free option, simply opt for a gluten-free beer – it works beautifully! We also recommend using a light beer, and non-alcoholic varieties are excellent choices if you prefer.
Tips for Perfection & Serving Suggestions
- Deepen the Flavor: For an even richer taste, consider roasting your butternut squash and onions before adding them to the pot. This caramelizes them, enhancing their sweetness and adding depth.
- Cheese Please: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Gruyere or Fontina for a slightly different character.
- Garnish Gorgeous: Top your soup with a swirl of cream, toasted pumpkin seeds, fresh thyme sprigs, or a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar for a beautiful finish.
This Butternut Squash Cheddar Soup is perfect as a standalone lunch, paired with a crisp salad, or alongside your favorite sandwich (a grilled cheese is an absolute dream!). It’s truly a hug in a bowl, ready to warm you from the inside out.