Panera Autumn Squash Soup

This Panera Autumn Squash Soup is the perfect dish to embrace the flavors of fall. Creamy, rich, and infused with warm spices, it’s not just a soup—it’s a hug in a bowl! Ideal for cozy dinners or as a delightful lunch, this soup showcases butternut squash at its finest. With easy preparation and mouthwatering taste, you’ll find yourself making it repeatedly throughout the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have this comforting soup on your table in no time.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg creates a warm, inviting flavor profile that’s perfect for chilly days.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or alongside your favorite crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious vegetables and wholesome ingredients, this soup is both satisfying and good for you.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

For this recipe, having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large stock pot
• High-speed blender
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Large stock pot: Essential for cooking your soup evenly while allowing enough space for all ingredients.
• High-speed blender: Ensures a smooth texture by thoroughly blending the soup to creamy perfection.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Chef’s knife: A versatile tool that makes dicing onions and chopping squash quick and effortless.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 1 small butternut squash (peeled and diced (6-7 cups))
• 3 carrots (peeled and sliced (1 – 1 1/2 cups))
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or vegetable stock)
• 1 cup unsweetened apple juice

For Seasoning and Creaminess

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon EACH: cinnamon, curry powder, and onion powder
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (or vegan butter)
• 2 ounces cream cheese (or plant-based cream cheese)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk)
• 2 Tablespoons maple syrup

For Toppings

• Roasted pumpkin seeds
• Fresh cracked black pepper
• Extra spices

How to Make Panera Autumn Squash Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Add the olive oil to a large stock pot over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot and shimmering:
* Add the diced onion.
* Sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Stir in the squash, carrots, vegetable broth, and apple juice. Follow these steps:
1. Bring everything to a boil over high heat.
2. Turn down the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until vegetables are fork-tender.

Step 3: Incorporate Spices and Creaminess

Stir in the following:
* Garlic powder
* Kosher salt
* Cinnamon
* Curry powder
* Onion powder
* Nutmeg
* Pumpkin puree
* Unsalted butter
* Cream cheese
* Heavy cream
* Maple syrup

Continue stirring until the cream cheese melts into the soup.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Carefully transfer the soup to a large high-speed blender. It’s best to:
1. Spoon out the veggies first.
2. Carefully pour in the broth next.
Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy with no chunks remaining.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

Pour the blended soup back into the stock pot. To serve:
* Drizzle with cream if desired.
* Top with roasted pumpkin seeds and fresh cracked black pepper.
Enjoy your delicious bowl of cozy goodness!

How to Serve Panera Autumn Squash Soup

Serving Panera Autumn Squash Soup is all about enhancing its cozy flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious soup.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Whole Grain: A slice of warm, crusty sourdough or whole grain bread makes the perfect companion for dipping and savoring the rich flavors of the soup.

Topped with Seeds

• Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: Sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the soup’s creaminess.

Drizzled with Cream

• Cream or Coconut Milk: A light drizzle of cream or full-fat coconut milk adds richness and visual appeal, making your bowl look as good as it tastes.

Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley or Chives: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to introduce a pop of color and freshness that brightens up every spoonful.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: Pair with a simple mixed green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette for a refreshing balance to the creamy soup.

As a Main Course

• With Protein Additions: Enjoy the soup as a filling main dish by adding grilled chicken or turkey for extra protein that complements the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Panera Autumn Squash Soup

Creating the perfect Panera Autumn Squash Soup can elevate your cooking experience. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Bold Flavors: Don’t be afraid to adjust spices such as cinnamon and curry powder according to your taste; this will enhance the flavor profile.
• Texture Control: For a smoother texture, blend longer in the high-speed blender until all chunks are gone, ensuring a silky consistency.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh produce whenever possible for maximum flavor; fresh butternut squash and carrots make all the difference.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter soup, consider adding more maple syrup or apple juice gradually until you reach your desired taste.
• Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so slowly over low heat to prevent curdling of cream or cheese components.

Best Side Dishes for Panera Autumn Squash Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Panera Autumn Squash Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing, this warm sandwich offers gooey cheese that contrasts beautifully with the smooth soup.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies provides added texture and nutrition, balancing out the richness of the soup.
3. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks are perfect for dipping into the soup while adding robust flavors.
4. Stuffed Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with rice and beans bring hearty satisfaction alongside your comforting bowl of soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add earthy flavors and vibrant colors, making them an excellent side choice.
6. Apple Slices with Nut Butter: For a sweet finish, serve crisp apple slices drizzled with nut butter; they provide a fresh contrast to the savory soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Panera Autumn Squash Soup can be simple, but small mistakes can affect your final dish. Here are common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Failing to sauté the onions before adding other ingredients can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always take that time to enhance the soup’s taste.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using old or expired veggies can ruin the freshness of your soup. Ensure all ingredients, especially the squash and carrots, are fresh for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Overcooking can make the squash mushy and alter its taste. Cook just until fork-tender for a perfect texture.
• Ignoring Spice Measurements: Not measuring spices accurately can lead to an unbalanced flavor profile. Stick closely to the recommended amounts for optimal results.
• Neglecting Blending Technique: Blending too much or too little affects the soup’s creaminess. Aim for a smooth consistency without any chunks for that signature creamy texture.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
• Let it cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Panera Autumn Squash Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Panera Autumn Squash Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil; heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until bubbling and warm throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Customize My Panera Autumn Squash Soup?

You can add different spices like ginger for extra warmth, or include cooked chicken or turkey for added protein and heartiness.

What Can I Use Instead of Cream?

For a dairy-free option, use full-fat coconut milk, which adds creaminess without dairy.

How Do I Make This Recipe Vegan?

Simply swap out butter and cream cheese for plant-based alternatives, and you’ll have a delicious vegan version of this comforting soup!

Can I Use Other Squashes?

Yes! You can experiment with different types of squash such as acorn or pumpkin, though cooking times may vary slightly based on variety.

What Should I Serve with Panera Autumn Squash Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal that’s satisfying and perfect for fall!

Conclusion

This recipe for Panera Autumn Squash Soup is not only cozy but also versatile! You can customize it with various spices or toppings based on your preferences. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, you’ll find yourself making this comforting dish all season long. Don’t hesitate to try it out—it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

---