Acorn Squash Soup
Published: September 26, 2026
Image info
Ingredients
Soup
2 medium Acorn squash , about 3 pounds total
3 cloves Garlic , unpeeled
2 tbsp Extra-virgin olive oil , plus more for drizzling
1 large Yellow onion , chopped
2 medium Carrots , chopped
1 tsp Sea salt , plus more for sprinkling
0.25 tsp Nutmeg
0.125 tsp Cayenne pepper
4 cups Vegetable broth
1 tbsp Fresh thyme leaves , plus more for garnish
2 tbsp Fresh lemon juice
1 tsp Maple syrup
1 to taste Black pepper , freshly ground
Optional Garnishes
1 to taste Pepitas , for garnish
1 to taste Microgreens , for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle the squash halves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place cut side down on the baking sheet. Wrap the garlic cloves in a piece of foil with a drizzle of oil and a pinch of salt and place on the baking sheet. Roast for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- When cool enough to handle, peel the garlic cloves and discard the papers. Scoop the soft squash flesh out of the skin and measure 2 1/2 cups. Discard the squash skins and save the remaining flesh for another use.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and salt and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 8 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the nutmeg, cayenne, and several grinds of pepper, then add the 2 1/2 cups roasted squash, the garlic, broth, and thyme leaves. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes.
- Allow the soup to cool slightly, then transfer to a Vitamix blender with the lemon juice and maple syrup and blend until smooth. Work in batches if necessary. Season to taste.
- Portion into bowls and serve with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh thyme leaves, pepitas, and microgreens for garnish. Serves 4 to 6.