Panera Autumn Squash Soup

This Panera Autumn Squash Soup is the perfect dish for cozy evenings and festive gatherings. Packed with rich flavors of butternut squash, warm spices, and creamy goodness, it’s a comforting meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick weeknight dinner or serving it at a holiday gathering, this soup shines in every setting. Its velvety texture and delightful aroma make it a standout choice for fall.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of butternut squash and spices creates a warm, inviting flavor profile that’s perfect for chilly days.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup can be made in under an hour.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or alongside sandwiches and salads for a complete meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is both nutritious and delicious.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your Panera Autumn Squash Soup efficient and enjoyable. Here are some essential kitchen tools to help you create this delicious dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Large stock pot: Necessary for cooking all the ingredients together evenly.
• High-speed blender: Ensures a smooth, creamy texture by blending the soup without chunks.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, keeping your workspace organized.

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 & 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

Toppings

• Roasted pumpkin seeds, fresh cracked black pepper, or extra spices

How to Make Panera Autumn Squash Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Onion

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

Step 2: Add Vegetables & Broth

Stir in the butternut squash, sliced carrots, vegetable broth, and apple juice. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes until the vegetables are fork-tender.

Step 3: Incorporate Spices & Creaminess

Mix in the garlic powder, kosher salt, cinnamon, curry powder, onion powder, nutmeg, pumpkin puree, unsalted butter, cream cheese, heavy cream, and maple syrup. Stir until everything is well combined and the cream cheese has melted into the soup.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Carefully transfer the soup to a large high-speed blender. If needed, spoon out some of the veggies first before pouring in the broth. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy with no chunks remaining.

Step 5: Serve

Pour the blended soup back into the stock pot. Serve immediately topped with a drizzle of cream, roasted pumpkin seeds, or a dash of cinnamon for extra flavor.

This delightful Panera Autumn Squash Soup is sure to become your new fall favorite! Enjoy its cozy warmth any day of the week!

How to Serve Panera Autumn Squash Soup

Serving Panera Autumn Squash Soup is all about enhancing its rich, creamy texture and warm flavors. You can create a delightful dining experience by pairing it with complementary toppings or side dishes that elevate the overall meal.

Toppings

• Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: Add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the smooth soup.
• Fresh Cracked Black Pepper: A sprinkle of this adds a hint of spice and freshness to each spoonful.
• Extra Spices: Try a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for an added depth of flavor that enhances the autumn essence.

Bread Pairings

• Crusty Baguette: Perfect for dipping, this bread adds a satisfying chewiness to your meal.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the sweetness of the squash soup wonderfully.
• Sourdough Bread Bowls: Serve the soup in a sourdough bowl for a fun, edible serving option.

Salad Suggestions

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, making for a refreshing contrast.
• Apple Walnut Salad: The sweet apples and crunchy walnuts echo the flavors in the soup while adding freshness.

How to Perfect Panera Autumn Squash Soup

Perfecting your Panera Autumn Squash Soup involves attention to detail and a few simple techniques. These tips will help you achieve that cozy, restaurant-quality taste at home.

• Bold Flavors: Don’t shy away from spices; they enhance the natural sweetness of the squash and add layers of flavor.
• Blend Until Smooth: For a creamy texture, ensure you blend until no chunks remain; this creates a velvety finish.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup before serving; adjust seasonings based on your preference for salt and spices.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables make a significant difference in flavor; opt for seasonal produce when possible.
• Store Properly: Keep the soup in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness and flavor for up to 5 days.

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 to consider.

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic comfort food that melts perfectly alongside your warm soup.
2. Quinoa Salad: Light yet filling, this salad adds protein and nutrients while complementing the soup’s flavors.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the savory notes of the autumn squash.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted to perfection brings extra nutrition and color to your meal.
5. Pita Chips with Hummus: Crunchy pita chips dipped in creamy hummus offer a great texture contrast.
6. Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide balance against the rich soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Panera Autumn Squash Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can detract from its flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong squash: Not all squashes are created equal. Stick with butternut squash for the best flavor and creaminess.
• Skipping the sauté step: Skipping the step of sautéing the onion can lead to a less flavorful soup. Take the time to soften them for richer taste.
• Not blending enough: If you don’t blend the soup until smooth, it may have an unappetizing texture. Ensure it’s completely creamy before serving.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking the squash and carrots too long can make them mushy. Cook just until fork-tender for the best results.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasonings as needed, especially after blending. A little extra salt or spice can elevate your soup.

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep your soup fresh.

Freezing Panera Autumn Squash Soup

• Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.

Reheating Panera Autumn Squash Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Panera Autumn Squash Soup?

Panera Autumn Squash Soup is a creamy and flavorful soup made with butternut squash, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness from apple juice.

How can I customize my Panera Autumn Squash Soup?

You can add roasted vegetables, swap in different spices, or adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of maple syrup used.

Can I make Panera Autumn Squash Soup vegan?

Yes! Simply use plant-based cream cheese and vegan butter instead of regular cream cheese and butter.

What can I serve with Panera Autumn Squash Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This better-than-Panera Autumn Squash Soup is not only comforting but also adaptable to your tastes. With its creamy texture and warm spices, it’s perfect for any fall meal. Try customizing it with your favorite toppings or spices for an even more personalized dish!