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Pumpkin Soup

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This creamy pumpkin soup is a cozy, flavorful dish perfect for chilly days. Made with savory spices and smooth pumpkin, it’s a warm, comforting meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy soup is great for weeknight dinners or holiday starters. The rich, velvety texture and aromatic seasonings will make everyone ask for seconds!
This recipe is easy to make, and you can follow the step-by-step guide below. We’ve included pro tips, tricks, and answers to frequently asked questions to help you get the best results!

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This easy fall soup recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect quick and cozy meal for fall evenings. The blend of creamy pumpkin and warming spices creates the best pumpkin soup that's ideal for family dinners or holiday starters. It’s easy to make, and its rich, velvety texture makes it stand out from other soups. This flavorful recipe will make your home feel warm and inviting!
Ingredients for Pumpkin Soup

What you'll need to make this Pumpkin Soup recipe:
- 1 cup of white or yellow onion, diced
- 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2–3 cloves of garlic, minced
- ⅛ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
- 29-ounce can of pure pumpkin purée (about 4 cups)
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 2 cups of water
- 2 sage leaves
- 1-2 teaspoons of light brown sugar, optional
- ¼ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half, plus more for serving
- Roasted pumpkin seeds (for garnish
Pro Tip
Make sure you are using pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling for this recipe.
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize this creamy pumpkin soup recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make your soup uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions.
Add Croutons: Top the soup with crunchy croutons or toasted pumpkin seeds for extra texture and flavor.
Substitute Cream: Use coconut milk for a dairy-free option that adds a subtle tropical twist to your soup.
Substitute Broth: Swap vegetable broth with chicken broth for a heartier, richer flavor in your soup.
Add Ginger: Grate fresh ginger into the soup for a zesty, spicy kick that complements the creamy pumpkin base.
How to Make Pumpkin Soup
Pro Tip
This great recipe freezes really well, so make a big batch and save the extras for later when you need a quick meal.
Follow along with our step-by-step instructions and photos to make the best Pumpkin Soup. We've included tips and tricks to help you out. Let’s get started!
FIRST STEP: In a large stockpot over medium heat, sauté the onions in the oil until soft and translucent.

SECOND STEP: Add garlic cloves, red pepper flakes, and nutmeg to the soup pot and sauté for one to two minutes longer.

THIRD STEP: Add the salt, pepper, pumpkin, chicken broth, water, and sage leaves to the pot and bring to a boil.

FOURTH STEP: Reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes or until soup has reduced and thickened.
Pro Tip
The soup will appear very thin initially, but as it simmers, it will reduce to a thicker texture. Adjust the thickness by adding chicken broth (to thin) or by simmering longer (to thicken).
FIFTH STEP: Remove the sage leaves and discard them. Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream.
Taste the soup and adjust the sugar, salt, and pepper as needed.

SIXTH STEP: Transfer soup to a blender (or use a handheld immersion blender) and purée. Return the soup to the pot and reheat it.
Pro Tip
Using a blender to puree the finished soup adds air and gives it an extra creamy texture. Although we’re already using pumpkin puree, the onions need to be pureed for a smooth soup.
Of course, you don’t have to puree the soup at all, and you can serve it as is.

SEVENTH STEP: Serve with a drizzle of heavy cream, roasted pumpkin seeds, and a sprinkle of herbs, if desired.
Pro Tip
For a special treat, toast some sage leaves in butter on the stovetop, then crush and sprinkle over the soup.
How To Serve Pumpkin Soup
Pumpkin Soup is a versatile dish that works for any season or occasion. Whether you're serving it for a cozy dinner or a festive event, this flavorful soup is sure to impress.
Family Dinners
This warm soup is a comforting, warm dish perfect for fall or winter family dinners. Kids love its creamy texture and mild flavor. Pair it with grilled cheese sandwiches for a complete, satisfying meal.
Holiday Starters
This soup makes an elegant starter for holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Its rich, velvety consistency is a hit before the main course. Serve it alongside a fresh spinach salad or crusty bread.
Casual Lunches
This soup works great for casual lunches with friends, offering a light yet filling option. Its smooth, spiced flavor pairs well with a simple side salad. Add roasted veggies or a baked potato to complete the meal.

Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Soup Recipe
Pumpkin Soup is a beloved favorite for many reasons, offering comfort and rich flavors perfect for any time of year.
A Perfect Blend of Creaminess and Spice
This Pumpkin Soup combines velvety pumpkin with aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a perfect balance of savory and sweet. Each spoonful is a cozy burst of flavor that warms you up on chilly days.
Quick and Easy to Make
Ready in just 30 minutes, this soup is ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute meal planning. Its simple preparation and rich taste make it a go-to recipe that anyone can enjoy, no matter their cooking skill level.
Comfort Food for Any Occasion
Whether you're serving it at a casual lunch or a festive holiday dinner, this easy soup is a versatile dish that pleases everyone. Its comforting texture and flavor evoke feelings of warmth and home, making it a timeless classic.
This soup isn’t just a meal—it’s a comforting bowl of goodness that you’ll love serving again and again!

Recipe FAQ
Can I use canned pumpkin for this soup?
Yes, canned pumpkin works perfectly in this recipe, saving time while still delivering rich and creamy flavor.
What spices are best for pumpkin soup?
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of paprika add warmth and depth to the creamy pumpkin base, enhancing the flavor.
Is pumpkin soup suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly when using vegetable broth, making it a great option for plant-based diets.
How long does it take to make this fall soup?
Pumpkin soup takes about thirty minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy meal for busy nights.

Serving FAQ
Can I serve pumpkin soup as an appetizer?
Yes, pumpkin soup makes a delicious and light appetizer, perfect for starting a cozy fall or winter meal.
Should pumpkin soup be served hot or cold?
This soup is best served hot to enhance the creamy texture and bring out the rich, savory flavors.
Is pumpkin soup good for casual meals or special occasions?
Your soup is versatile and works for both casual meals and special occasions, offering comfort and elegance in every bowl.
Can pumpkin soup be served in bread bowls?
Yes, serving this side dish in bread bowls adds a fun, hearty touch, making it perfect for family meals or entertaining guests.

Storage FAQ
Follow the tips and tricks below for optimal storage of Pumpkin Soup. From making it ahead to reheating, we’ve got you covered to ensure it stays fresh and flavorful.
Can I prepare pumpkin soup ahead of time?
Yes, make the soup a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
What’s the best way to store leftover pumpkin soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Pumpkin soup will keep well for up to three days.
Can I freeze pumpkin soup?
Yes, you can freeze your soup in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
How do I reheat pumpkin soup?
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it's heated through and creamy.
Can I reheat pumpkin soup in the microwave?
Yes, reheat the soup in the microwave in thirty second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even heating.

Pumpkin Soup
Ingredients
- 1 cup white or yellow onion (diced)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 to 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 29 ounce pure pumpkin puree (about 4 cups)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 sage leaves
- 1 to 2 teaspoons light brown sugar (optional)
- ¼ cup heavy cream or half and half (plus more for serving)
- Roasted pumpkin seeds (for garnish)
DIRECTIONS
- In a large stockpot over medium heat, saute the onions in the oil until soft and translucent.
- Add the garlic, red pepper flakes, and nutmeg and saute 1 to 2 minutes longer.
- Add the salt, pepper, pumpkin, chicken broth, water, and sage leaves to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the soup has reduced and thickened.
- Remove the sage leaves and discard them. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Taste the soup and adjust the sugar, salt, and pepper as needed.
- Transfer soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and puree. Return the soup to the pot and reheat.
- Serve with a drizzle of heavy cream, roasted pumpkin seeds, and a sprinkle of herbs, if desired.
Notes
- This great recipe freezes really well, so make a big batch and save the extras for later when you need a quick meal.
- The soup will appear very thin initially, but as it simmers, it will reduce to a thicker texture. Adjust the thickness by adding chicken broth (to thin) or by simmering longer (to thicken).
- Using a blender to puree the finished soup adds air and gives it an extra creamy texture. Although we’re already using pumpkin puree, the onions need to be pureed for a smooth soup. Of course, you don’t have to puree the soup at all, and you can serve it as is.
- For a special treat, toast some sage leaves in butter on the stovetop, then crush and sprinkle over the soup.






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