| |

Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Coconut Milk Recipe

I absolutely love how this Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Coconut Milk Recipe turns out—it’s like a cozy hug in a bowl. The natural sweetness of the roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with the subtle tang of sun-dried tomatoes and the creamy silkiness of coconut milk. Whenever I make this, it fills the kitchen with such a warm, inviting aroma that my family and friends can hardly wait to dig in.

This soup works wonders on chilly fall evenings or anytime you want a nourishing meal that’s both comforting and good for you. Not to mention, it’s simple enough for weeknights but impressive enough to serve guests too. You’ll find that this Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Coconut Milk Recipe hits the perfect balance between hearty and light, with flavors that just keep unfolding with every spoonful.

💚

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich, Nourishing Flavors: Roasting the butternut squash brings out its natural sweetness, making this soup deeply satisfying.
  • Simple, Wholesome Ingredients: Everything you need is easy to find and supports a healthy, balanced diet.
  • Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free: The use of coconut milk instead of cream keeps it creamy without allergens.
  • Customizable and Versatile: You can tweak the spices and garnishes to suit your family’s tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Coconut Milk Recipe lies in fresh, simple ingredients that work beautifully together. Knowing a few shopping tips can really help your soup shine—like choosing a squash with a firm rind and vibrant orange flesh for maximum sweetness.

  • Butternut squash: Opt for a firm, heavy squash with smooth skin for sweeter, creamier results after roasting.
  • Olive oil: Use good quality extra virgin for roasting to add subtle richness without overpowering flavors.
  • Butter or vegan butter: Adds a lovely depth—vegan butter works great here if you want to keep it dairy-free.
  • Full-fat coconut milk: This is what gives the soup its luscious creaminess without dairy.
  • Garlic: Fresh cloves bring savory warmth and aroma—don’t skip or substitute with powder.
  • Carrots: Fresh carrots add natural sweetness and texture when softened.
  • Onion: A medium yellow or white onion works best to round out the flavor base.
  • Chicken or vegetable broth: Using homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought works fine to boost savory notes.
  • Cinnamon: Just a pinch adds a lovely cozy warmth without overpowering the soup.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes: Choose oil-packed ones for richer flavor and a pleasant tang.
  • Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together perfectly.
  • Thyme: Fresh thyme adds herbaceous brightness for garnish.
  • Toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds): These bring a delightful crunch and nutty contrast.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love to experiment with this Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Coconut Milk Recipe to keep things interesting or cater to different dietary preferences. Feel free to personalize it by switching up the herbs or adding extras you enjoy.

  • Add Spice: I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to give the soup a little heat, which my family absolutely loves.
  • Make it Vegan: Swap out butter for vegan butter and use vegetable broth to keep the soup completely plant-based without sacrificing flavor.
  • Use Different Herbs: Thyme is classic here, but rosemary or sage can add a lovely earthiness if you’re in the mood for something different.
  • Boost Creaminess: For extra richness, a dollop of cashew cream or a splash more coconut milk works wonders.

How to Make Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Coconut Milk Recipe

Step 1: Roast Your Butternut Squash to Sweet Perfection

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the butternut squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds—don’t toss these, by the way, I saved some to roast as a crunchy snack! Drizzle the halves with olive oil, sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper, and place cut side up on a baking sheet. Roast for 45-55 minutes until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork. I like to roast until the edges start to caramelize slightly — it adds a beautiful depth of flavor. Once done, set the squash aside to cool enough to handle.

Step 2: Cook the Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Sauté Vegetables

While the squash roasts, warm a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for a couple of minutes to release their rich, tangy flavor. Use a slotted spoon to remove them, and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Next, add the butter or vegan butter to the pot. Once melted, add the chopped onion, garlic cloves, and diced carrots. Stir occasionally and cook until the veggies soften, around 5-7 minutes. This slow sauté brings out their sweetness and builds great flavor for the soup base.

Step 3: Combine Roasted Squash and Seasonings

Once your squash has cooled just enough, scoop the tender flesh right into the pot with your cooked veggies. Sprinkle in a quarter teaspoon of cinnamon, plus salt and pepper to taste. I discovered adding cinnamon gives the soup a subtle warming spice that lifts the natural sweetness without overpowering. Stir everything gently, mixing the flavors before moving on.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer for Flavor Development

Pour in 2½ cups of chicken or vegetable broth—depending on your diet preference—just enough to cover the ingredients. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. This slow simmer really lets those flavors meld together beautifully. While it simmers, you might want to taste and adjust the seasoning—sometimes a little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference.

Step 5: Blend Until Velvety Smooth

Remove the pot from heat, and add the full-fat coconut milk—this is where the soup gets its creamy richness. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until silky smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, but always watch out for hot spills! If the soup feels too thick, simply add more broth until you reach your perfect consistency.

Step 6: Serve with Beautiful Garnishes

Ladle your soup into bowls and top each with a drizzle of coconut milk, some of the reserved sun-dried tomatoes, toasted pepitas for crunch, and a sprinkle of fresh thyme. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you love a little heat! My family goes crazy for these finishing touches—they really elevate the dish and give it a lovely texture contrast.

👨‍🍳

Pro Tips for Making Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Coconut Milk Recipe

  • Roasting Technique: Don’t skip roasting the squash skin-side up – it helps the flesh caramelize and intensifies sweetness.
  • Sun-Dried Tomato Prep: Cooking and draining the sun-dried tomatoes separately keeps their flavor concentrated without watering down the soup.
  • Immersion Blender Magic: Blending right in the pot saves cleanup and helps you control the soup’s texture easily.
  • Adjusting Thickness: Always add broth slowly—too thin is easy to fix by simmering longer, but too thick can be tricky.

How to Serve Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Coconut Milk Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with smooth, bright orange pumpkin soup. The soup has a creamy texture with a swirl of white cream on top, scattered with small bits of red bacon and green pumpkin seeds. Tiny green herbs are sprinkled around the surface, adding contrast to the orange base. A spoon with a white handle rests inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and parts of two more bowls with the same soup can be seen blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love topping my soup with toasted pepitas because they add a satisfying crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy soup. Fresh thyme leaves or a sprig of rosemary brighten things up and add beautiful aroma. Sometimes, I drizzle a little extra coconut milk on top to make it look extra inviting—presentation absolutely matters when you’re serving guests!

Side Dishes

For a complete meal, I usually serve this soup alongside crusty whole-grain bread or some garlic roasted Brussels sprouts. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the creamy richness of the soup perfectly. When my family has it for dinner, we often add a protein like roasted chicken or chickpea patties for extra substance.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday dinners or special occasions, I sometimes serve the soup in mini hollowed-out pumpkins or butternut squash bowls—it’s visually stunning and fun to eat! You could also swirl in a little herb pesto or sprinkle toasted coconut flakes for an elegant twist. These small touches make this simple soup feel like a five-star treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover soup in airtight glass containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. When I reheat it, I usually warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching and keep the texture smooth and luscious.

Freezing

This Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Coconut Milk Recipe freezes beautifully. I portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags and it keeps for about 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Reheating

When reheating, low and slow is the way to go—heat the soup over low heat, stirring often. This helps maintain the creamy texture without separating the coconut milk. If you find the soup thickened too much in the fridge, just add a splash of broth, water, or coconut milk while warming and stir well.

FAQs

  1. Can I make this Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Coconut Milk Recipe in a slow cooker?

    Absolutely! You can roast the squash separately, then add all ingredients except the coconut milk into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then blend and stir in the coconut milk near the end of cooking or just before serving for best texture.

  2. What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

    If you’re not a fan or don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand, roasted red peppers or a small amount of tomato paste can work as substitutes, adding a bit of sweetness and acidity to balance the squash.

  3. Is this soup suitable for a paleo or Whole30 diet?

    Yes! This recipe is paleo and Whole30 compliant as long as you use compliant broth and avoid butter or opt for ghee or vegan alternatives. The coconut milk and vegetables fit perfectly into those eating plans.

  4. Can I use canned butternut squash instead of fresh?

    While fresh roasted butternut squash gives the best flavor and texture, canned can be a convenient shortcut. Just make sure it’s 100% squash without added flavors or salt, then adjust seasoning as needed since canned versions can be milder.

  5. How do I prevent the coconut milk from curdling when reheating?

    Reheat the soup gently over low heat and stir frequently. Avoid boiling after adding coconut milk, as high heat can cause separation. If it does curdle slightly, whisking vigorously off heat can help smooth it out.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Coconut Milk Recipe has become one of my go-to dishes when I want something that feels both wholesome and indulgent. It’s a recipe I love sharing with friends because it’s approachable, packed with flavor, and surprisingly easy to make. Give it a try—you’ll enjoy the way it comforts your soul and nourishes your body all at once. Trust me, once you make this, it might just become your new favorite soup too!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Healthy Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Coconut Milk Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 82 reviews
  • Author: Nora
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This healthy roasted butternut squash soup is a creamy, flavorful blend of roasted squash, garlic, carrots, and herbs, enhanced with coconut milk for a smooth texture. Roasted to bring out natural sweetness and topped with sun dried tomatoes, toasted pepitas, and fresh thyme, it makes a comforting and nutritious meal that’s paleo, gluten-free, dairy-free, and Whole30 compliant.


Ingredients

Roasted Butternut Squash

  • 3 pound butternut squash, cut in half lengthwise, seeds removed
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Soup Base

  • 1 tbsp butter or vegan butter
  • 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 large carrots, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 ½ – 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth, as needed
  • ¼ tsp cinnamon
  • 3 slices sun dried tomatoes

Garnishes

  • Thyme (fresh)
  • Toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds)


Instructions

  1. Preheat and roast squash: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Place the butternut squash halves cut side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 45-55 minutes until tender and easily pierced with a fork. Remove and let cool slightly.
  2. Cook sun dried tomatoes: While the squash roasts, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped sun dried tomatoes and cook briefly to release flavor. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
  3. Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, melt 1 tbsp of butter or vegan butter. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften.
  4. Scoop squash and combine: When the squash is cool enough, scoop the flesh out of the skins and add it to the pot with sautéed vegetables.
  5. Season and simmer: Sprinkle in ¼ tsp cinnamon, and season with salt and pepper. Pour in 2 ½ cups of broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes to meld flavors.
  6. Blend the soup: Remove the pot from heat and stir in coconut milk. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If it’s too thick, add extra broth to reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, blend in batches using a regular blender.
  7. Serve: Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with a drizzle of coconut milk, reserved sun dried tomatoes, toasted pepitas, and fresh thyme or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra flavor. Serve hot.

Notes

  • This soup is paleo, gluten-free, dairy-free, and Whole30 compatible.
  • For a vegan version, use vegetable broth and vegan butter.
  • If you prefer a thinner consistency, add additional broth when blending.
  • Toasted pepitas add a lovely crunch and nutrition; toast them lightly in a dry pan until fragrant.
  • Sun dried tomatoes add a subtle tang and depth but can be omitted if unavailable.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 176 kcal
  • Sugar: 3.6 g
  • Sodium: 869 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6.5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 12 mg

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star