"Compare two delicious butternut squash soup recipes-Taste of Home and Ina Garten. Cozy, creamy, and perfect for fall family meals."
There's just something special about a warm, creamy bowl of butternut squash soup when the weather cools down. It's cozy, nourishing, and always feels like a hug from the kitchen. Today I'm sharing two delicious versions of this fall favorite - because in our real-life kitchens, sometimes we want quick and straightforward, and other times we want a little extra flavor and flair.
Neither of these recipes is my original; full credit goes to the creators. I'm simply showing how they turned out in my kitchen and sharing a few notes for families, meal prep, and freezer storage.
Here are the two recipes I used:
🧡 Taste of Home - Easy Butternut Squash Soup
https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/easy-butternut-squash-soup
🍎 Ina Garten - Butternut Squash & Apple Soup
https://barefootcontessa.com/recipes/butternut-squash-and-apple-soup
As a mom of four and grandma to six, meals like this are precisely what make my heart happy - nourishing, from-scratch recipes that bless my family and fill the house with warmth and comfort.
Easy Butternut Squash Soup (Taste of Home)
This version is simple, creamy, and incredibly reliable. It uses everyday ingredients and comes together without much fuss - perfect for busy weeknights or when you need something soothing and straightforward.
What I love about this recipe:
• Mild flavor (great for picky eaters)
• Quick and easy to blend smooth
• Very freezer-friendly
• Budget-friendly ingredients
Family note:
If you're cooking for kids or anyone who prefers a classic, gentle squash soup, this one is a winner.
Butternut Squash & Apple Soup (Ina Garten)
Ina Garten's version takes butternut squash soup up a notch. The apples add a natural sweetness, and the curry powder adds a warm, slightly complex flavor. It feels like something you could confidently serve for a holiday or bring to a dinner gathering.
What stands out:
• Sweetness from apples
• A hint of curry for depth
• Beautifully silky texture
• Perfect for fall gatherings
Family note:
This one tastes a little more "gourmet," but still simple enough for everyday. Kids who enjoy sweeter soups will love this one.
Which Butternut Squash Soup Is Best?
Honestly both! It depends on what you're craving:
| If you want | Choose |
|---|---|
| Simple & mild | Taste of Home |
| Flavorful & slightly sweet | Ina Garten |
| Budget-friendly | Taste of Home |
| A holiday dinner soup | Ina Garten |
| Freezer-friendly | Both! |
In my kitchen, both versions were delicious, creamy, and so comforting. It really comes down to your preferred flavor-and the ingredients you already have on hand.
Tips for the Creamiest Soup
Here are a few ways to get that velvety, restaurant-style texture:
• Use a hand immersion blender right in the pot
• Or blend in batches in a high-powered blender
• Add an extra splash of broth if it gets too thick
• Stir in a little cream or coconut milk at the end for richness
• Taste as you go - squash can vary in sweetness, so adjust seasonings to your liking
Make-Ahead & Freezer Notes
Both soups freeze beautifully! Here's how I prepare them for future meals:
- Let the soup cool completely.
- Portion into freezer-safe containers or silicone soup blocks.
- Label with the date and name.
- Freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to bring it back to life.
Perfect for busy seasons, new moms, or blessing your children with meals for their own families.
Serving Suggestions
Make this a cozy fall dinner by pairing the soup with:
• Crusty sourdough or French bread
• Grilled cheese or toasted cheddar sandwiches
• A fresh green salad from the garden
• A sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds
• A swirl of cream or Greek yogurt
Both soups also make excellent starters for Thanksgiving or holiday meals.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose the simple and creamy Taste of Home version or the flavorful, slightly sweet Ina Garten version, you really can't go wrong. Both warm the body and the heart - and that's what cooking for family is all about.
If you want to see both soups side by side and hear my personal notes, be sure to watch the full video on my YouTube channel. I hope these recipes inspire you to create something comforting for your loved ones today.
Leave a Reply