Oh, how I love a big bowl of gluten-free butternut squash soup when the weather turns chilly! There’s something magical about how those simple ingredients transform into the creamiest, most comforting meal. I first fell for this soup when I needed something warming yet healthy during a busy fall season – and wow, did it deliver! The natural sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with warm spices, while the coconut milk makes it luxuriously smooth without any gluten or dairy. Best part? It comes together with just a few pantry staples and one pot. Whether you’re gluten-free by choice or necessity, this soup will become your new cold-weather best friend.

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Soup
Trust me, this isn’t just another soup recipe—it’s a game-changer for cozy nights. Here’s why:
- Effortless cooking: One pot, simple steps, and done in 35 minutes flat—even on your busiest weeknight.
- Creamy comfort: Silky smooth texture (thanks to blending and coconut milk) feels indulgent but stays gluten-free and dairy-free.
- Natural sweetness: The squash caramelizes beautifully with cinnamon and nutmeg—like autumn in a bowl.
- Nutrient-packed: Loaded with vitamin A and fiber from fresh squash, no “healthy taste” compromises here.
- Endlessly adaptable: Spice it up, swap veggies, or make it ahead—this soup plays well with creativity.
Ingredients for Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Soup
Here’s everything you’ll need for that creamy, dreamy soup – and yes, I’ve learned the hard way that prepping ingredients first makes all the difference! These simple, wholesome ingredients come together like magic:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes – trust me, fresh squash beats canned any day
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – just enough to coat the pot and bring out those flavors
- 1 small onion, chopped (about 1 cup) – yellow or white both work great here
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – because what’s soup without garlic?
- 4 cups vegetable broth – use low-sodium if you’re watching salt intake
- ½ teaspoon salt – adjust to taste after blending
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground if you’ve got it
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – the secret warmth that makes this soup special
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg – just a pinch makes all the difference
- ½ cup coconut milk – the full-fat kind from a can gives that creamy richness
See? Nothing fancy – just good, simple ingredients ready to become something amazing. I always keep these basics stocked during soup season! For more about gluten-free living, check out our homepage.
How to Make Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Soup
Okay, let’s turn these simple ingredients into pure comfort! I’ve made this soup dozens of times, and here’s my foolproof method:
- Sizzle the aromatics: Heat olive oil in your favorite soup pot over medium heat. Add those chopped onions and minced garlic – you’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen smells amazing (about 3 minutes). Don’t rush this step – those golden onions add so much flavor!
- Add the stars: Toss in your prepped butternut squash cubes, vegetable broth, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Give it a good stir – I like to pretend I’m a soup witch casting flavor spells at this point.
- Simmer to perfection: Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it bubble away for 20 minutes – just enough time to set the table or scroll through your phone. The squash should be fork-tender when ready.
- Blend it smooth: Here’s where the magic happens! Use an immersion blender right in the pot (careful of splatters!) or carefully transfer to a regular blender in batches. Blend until velvety smooth – no lumps allowed!
- Finish with creaminess: Stir in that luscious coconut milk and let it warm through for 2 more minutes. Taste and adjust salt if needed – I sometimes add an extra pinch of cinnamon here too.

Tips for the Best Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Soup
After burning many batches (oops!), here are my hard-earned soup secrets:
- Roast for richness: For deeper flavor, roast cubed squash at 400°F for 25 minutes before adding to the pot. The caramelization is unreal!
- Spice it your way: Add a pinch of cayenne for heat or swap nutmeg for ginger if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Blending tricks: Let soup cool slightly before blending to avoid “soup explosions.” For extra silkiness, strain through a sieve.
- Garnish game: Top with toasted pumpkin seeds, a swirl of coconut milk, or fresh thyme for pretty presentation (and extra crunch!).
Variations for Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Soup
One of my favorite things about this soup? How easily it adapts to whatever’s in your pantry or your mood! Here are my go-to twists when I want to mix things up:
- Sweet potato swap: Out of squash? Use 2 large peeled sweet potatoes instead – they blend up just as creamy with a slightly earthier vibe.
- Ginger zing: Add a thumb of fresh grated ginger with the garlic for a bright, spicy kick that cuts through the richness.
- Dairy-free options: Not a coconut fan? Almond milk works beautifully, though you might want to reduce the broth slightly for thickness.
Serving Suggestions for Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Soup
Here’s how I love to serve this golden beauty – it’s all about cozy pairings and fun toppings! A thick slice of warm gluten-free bread is perfect for dunking, while a crisp kale salad balances the soup’s richness. For toppings, go wild with:
- Toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch
- A drizzle of coconut milk swirls
- Fresh thyme or parsley for color
- Crispy roasted chickpeas for protein
Sometimes I’ll even serve it in little cups as a starter at dinner parties – always a hit!
Storing and Reheating Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Soup
This soup actually gets better after sitting overnight – the flavors marry beautifully! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I prefer the stovetop (medium-low heat with occasional stirring), but the microwave works in a pinch (1-minute bursts, stir between). For freezing, omit the coconut milk until reheating – portion into freezer bags, lay flat, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before warming gently.
Nutritional Information for Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Soup
Just so you know, nutritional values are estimates and will vary based on your specific ingredients. For one hearty serving of this soup (about 1½ cups), you’re looking at roughly:
- 180 calories – cozy but not heavy
- 7g fat (4g saturated from that lovely coconut milk)
- 28g carbs – mostly from the squash’s natural sugars
- 6g fiber – thank you, butternut!
Not bad for a bowl that tastes this indulgent, right? The squash packs a whopping 300% of your daily vitamin A too – sneaky nutrition!
FAQs About Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Soup
Soup questions? I’ve got answers! Here are the ones I get asked most:
- Can I freeze this soup? Absolutely! Just leave out the coconut milk until reheating. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months – it thaws beautifully.
- Is canned squash okay? In a pinch, yes (about 3 cups), but fresh gives better texture and flavor. If using canned, drain it well first.
- How can I spice it up? Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne with the cinnamon, or top with chili oil – my favorite winter warmer trick!
- Can I make it in a slow cooker? Yes! Sauté onions first, then cook on low 6 hours. Blend right in the pot.
Now grab that butternut and get cooking – tag me with your soup masterpiece!
PrintCreamy Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Soup in 35 Minutes
A creamy and comforting gluten-free butternut squash soup perfect for chilly days. Simple ingredients and easy steps make this a go-to recipe.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté for 3 minutes until soft.
- Add butternut squash, vegetable broth, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until squash is tender.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender.
- Stir in coconut milk and heat for 2 more minutes.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For extra flavor, roast the butternut squash before adding to the soup.
- Top with pumpkin seeds or fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: gluten-free butternut squash soup, easy soup recipe, healthy soup