There’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm, comforting soup on a chilly fall day, and this Black Bean, Pumpkin, and Butternut Squash Soup with Cream Cheese is the perfect dish to cozy up with. Combining the natural sweetness of pumpkin and butternut squash with the hearty richness of black beans, this soup is packed with flavor and nutrients.
The addition of cream cheese brings a luscious creaminess that balances out the earthiness of the vegetables while making the soup smooth and velvety. This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying, offering a great mix of flavors and textures in every spoonful. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a hearty starter for a special meal, this soup is a standout.
It’s also a fantastic option for those seeking a plant-based meal with plenty of protein and fiber from the black beans, along with the rich, comforting flavors of fall. Easy to make and full of wholesome ingredients, this soup will quickly become a fall favorite!
2. Ingredients
- 1 cup butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup cooked black beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
3. Directions
- Sauté the onions and garlic: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the butternut squash and pumpkin: Add the cubed butternut squash, pumpkin puree, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10–12 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
- Add the black beans and spices: Stir in the cooked black beans, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Blend the soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Blend until the soup reaches a velvety consistency.
- Incorporate the cream cheese: Once the soup is blended, add the softened cream cheese to the pot and stir until fully incorporated. The cream cheese will give the soup a rich, creamy texture. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
4. How to Prepare
Preparing Black Bean, Pumpkin, and Butternut Squash Soup is simple and doesn’t take much effort. Start by sautéing the onions and garlic to develop a savory base, then cook the butternut squash and pumpkin until tender. The black beans and spices are added next, which not only enhance the flavor but also provide heartiness to the soup. The real magic happens when you blend everything together to create a creamy, smooth texture, and the cream cheese is folded in at the end to provide a rich, luxurious finish. For a smoother texture, be sure to blend the soup thoroughly. You can also adjust the level of creaminess by adding more cream cheese or broth, depending on how thick you like your soup. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots or celery for more depth, or even a pinch of chili flakes if you like a little heat in your soup.
5. Preparation Time
The preparation time for this soup is about 10 minutes, with a cook time of 20–25 minutes. Total time: approximately 30–35 minutes. It’s a quick, easy dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal during the cooler months.
6. Servings
This recipe serves 4–6 people, depending on portion size. It makes a hearty meal on its own or can be served as a starter to accompany a larger meal.
7. FAQs
Q1: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing, and reheat it gently on the stovetop.
Q2: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin?
Yes, fresh pumpkin works great in this recipe. Simply peel, chop, and cook the pumpkin before adding it to the soup. You may need to add a little more broth to adjust for the texture of fresh pumpkin.
Q3: Can I use dairy-free cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute dairy-free cream cheese to make this soup vegan-friendly. The dairy-free option will still provide the creamy texture you’re looking for.
Q4: How can I make this soup spicier?
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a diced jalapeño along with the garlic and onions. Adjust the heat to your liking!
Q5: Can I use canned black beans?
Yes, you can use canned black beans for convenience. Just be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium before adding them to the soup.
8. Conclusion
Black Bean, Pumpkin, and Butternut Squash Soup with Cream Cheese is the perfect recipe for a cozy, nutritious meal. The combination of sweet butternut squash and pumpkin, hearty black beans, and creamy cream cheese makes for a satisfying and flavorful dish that will keep you warm all season long. The spices—cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon—add just the right amount of depth and warmth to the soup, while the creamy texture from the cream cheese creates a rich, velvety finish. This soup is a great way to enjoy the best flavors of fall in a simple, healthy dish that’s both comforting and filling. Whether you’re enjoying it on a quiet evening or serving it to family and friends, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, full of vibrant flavors, and guaranteed to become a fall favorite in your kitchen. Try it today, and indulge in a bowl of pure comfort!