Instant Pot Creamy Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

I absolutely love this Instant Pot Creamy Butternut Squash Soup Recipe because it’s the perfect cozy bowl of comfort with minimal effort. The Instant Pot really speeds things up without sacrificing any flavor or creaminess, which means you get rich, velvety soup in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a warm meal that feels special.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the flavors melded so beautifully with just a few simple ingredients. You’ll find that the subtle sweetness of the butternut squash combined with the touch of nutmeg and creamy cashew or coconut milk creates a luxurious texture that really hits the spot. This soup is both a crowd-pleaser and a great way to sneak in some veggies!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Instant Pot Creamy Butternut Squash Soup Recipe plays a role in building layers of flavor and smooth texture. When shopping, look for a firm butternut squash that’s heavy for its size and fresh aromatics like garlic and onion to make the soup pop.

• Olive oil or water for sautéing: Use olive oil for richness or water to keep it oil-free without losing flavor.
• Small sweet onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth without overpowering the squash.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced or pressed gives the best punch to balance the sweetness.
• Butternut squash: The star of the show—peeled and cubed for quick cooking and creamy texture.
• Nutmeg: A little freshly grated nutmeg elevates the aroma and warmth significantly.
• Vegetable broth: Adds body and flavor—2 to 3 cups depending on how thick you like your soup.
• Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors, add gradually after blending.
• Cashew cream or full-fat coconut milk: For that dreamy, creamy finish—cashew cream if you prefer neutral flavor, coconut milk for richness.

Variations

I love to personalize this Instant Pot Creamy Butternut Squash Soup Recipe depending on the season or who I’m cooking for. There’s so much room to get creative, and you can easily make it oil-free, nut-free, or add extra spices for more warmth.

• Spicy Kick: I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to give it a subtle heat that my family goes crazy for.
• Herb Boost: Stir in some fresh thyme or sage after blending for an earthy twist that’s perfect in fall.
• Oil-Free Version: Swapping olive oil for just water when sautéing works beautifully to keep it light without losing flavor.
• Nut-Free Option: Using coconut milk instead of cashew cream keeps things allergy-friendly while staying creamy and delicious.

How to Make Instant Pot Creamy Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics

Hit the “sauté” button on your Instant Pot and add your olive oil (or water if you’re skipping oil). Toss in the diced onion and garlic and cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes until they’re fragrant and translucent. This step really helps build a flavorful base, so don’t rush it. Once softened, turn the Instant Pot off briefly to prep the next steps.

Step 2: Add Butternut Squash and Broth

Carefully add your cubed butternut squash and sprinkle in the freshly grated nutmeg. Pour in enough vegetable broth to almost cover the squash—about 2 to 3 cups depending on your pot size and preference. Here’s a trick I discovered: give the bottom of the pot a good scrape with a spatula to loosen any browned bits from the onion and garlic. This helps prevent the infamous “burn” error on the Instant Pot and enhances flavor.

Step 3: Pressure Cook and Blend

Seal the lid and set your Instant Pot to “manual” or “pressure cook” on high for 10 minutes. When the timer beeps, carefully release the pressure (I usually use the quick release method). Once the pressure is fully released, use an immersion blender right in the pot to blend the soup until it becomes silky smooth—this is when it really turns into the creamy butternut squash soup magic we’re aiming for.

Step 4: Stir in Creaminess and Season

Pour in your cashew cream or full-fat coconut milk and stir until fully incorporated. This is the secret to that luscious, creamy mouthfeel. Give it a taste, then add salt as needed to balance all the flavors. For an extra finishing touch, I sometimes swirl in a little more cashew cream right before serving—it just feels so indulgent!

How to Serve Instant Pot Creamy Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

Garnishes

I usually top my soup bowls with a drizzle of cashew cream or coconut milk and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. Sometimes, I add toasted pumpkin seeds or a few crispy sage leaves fried in a little olive oil for crunch and that earthy, aromatic pop. These simple garnishes elevate both flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich—my go-to is stretchy mozzarella on sourdough. Crusty bread or a fresh salad, like a Caesar or kale salad with lemon dressing, also complements it perfectly for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to serve the soup in mini pumpkin bowls or small mason jars lined up on a buffet table. Adding a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of herbs on top makes it look restaurant-worthy and really impresses guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge and it stays fresh for about 4 to 5 days. When I reheat, I do it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave at medium power so it doesn’t separate, stirring occasionally to bring back that creamy texture.

Freezing

This soup freezes really well, which is a lifesaver on busy days. I portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags and it can last for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat carefully to keep the cream smooth and dreamy.

Reheating

When reheating, I usually warm the soup over low heat on the stove while stirring slowly. If it seems too thick, adding a splash of broth or water helps loosen it without diluting the flavor too much. Avoid boiling to keep the texture silky.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Creamy Butternut Squash Soup Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s fast, comforting, and reliably delicious every time. I love how this soup feels like a warm hug in a bowl without needing a ton of fancy ingredients or time. If you’ve been looking for a simple, creamy, and flavorful soup that’s perfect for busy days or cozy nights, I can’t recommend giving this one a try enough—you’ll be glad you did!

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