Pumpkin Soup For One

Ah, Pumpkin Soup. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl. And when fall rolls around, who doesn’t crave the comforting taste of pumpkin infused with a medley of spices? This single serving Pumpkin Soup recipe checks all the boxes. It’s a simple, no-fuss recipe that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes and is absolutely perfect for those cozy nights in. Made with canned pumpkin and staple pantry items, this dish will become a seasonal go-to.

If you have leftover pumpkin puree, why not use it to make delightful small batch treats? You could create rich and creamy Pumpkin Pie Bars, an effortlessly indulgent No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake, soft, bakery-style Pumpkin Spice Muffins, a crunchy, spiced small batch of Pumpkin Spice Granola, or a charmingly petite Pumpkin Pie. These recipes are perfect for using up that extra puree in a delicious and practical way.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Soup Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Cooks in just 20 minutes!
• Minimal Equipment: One pot is all you need.
• Pantry Staples: Made with items you likely already have.
• No Blending Required: Canned pumpkin means it’s already smooth.
• Flavorful: Caramelized onions and garlic elevate the taste.

RELATED: Single Serving Pumpkin Recipes To Get You Ready For Fall

What Is Pumpkin Soup?

Pumpkin soup is a velvety, savory soup that’s often enjoyed as the temperatures start to drop. Made with canned pumpkin, caramelized onions, a touch of garlic, and savory spices, it’s the epitome of easy yet gourmet home cooking. Our recipe is simple, straightforward, and downright delicious, it’s comfort food at its best.

Ingredients

This section provides a quick rundown of the ingredients used in this small batch pumpkin soup recipe. For complete measurements and step-by-step instructions, please scroll to the recipe card located at the bottom of this post.

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for this pumpkin soup recipe. It’s less processed and retains a robust olive flavor, enriching the overall taste of the soup. If you prefer a milder flavor, a lighter olive oil will do just fine.
• Onions and Garlic: These kitchen staples are essential for enhancing the soup’s flavor profile. Don’t skip them; they add a depth of taste that truly elevates the dish.
• Pumpkin: Canned pumpkin keeps things simple and quick. It’s usually found in your grocery store’s baking or holiday aisle, or you can snag some online. Got leftovers? There are plenty of recipes to put canned pumpkin to good use (see below).
• Thyme: Fresh thyme brings out the best in this recipe. If fresh isn’t available, 1/8 teaspoon of ground thyme can be used as a substitute.
• Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and ground ginger collectively impart savory and slightly spicy undertones, making each spoonful of the soup unforgettable.
• Broth: I like using low-sodium chicken broth, but vegetable broth is a solid alternative if you’re aiming for a vegetarian version of this pumpkin soup. Consider using leftover broth in Slow Cooker Chickpeas and Sausage or Tuscan Chicken.
• Maple Syrup: Just a teaspoon lends a caramel-like sweetness that perfectly complements the soup. If maple syrup isn’t your thing, honey is a good alternative. Leftover maple syrup can be used in a mini Sweet Potato Pie, a Maple Muffin, or French Toast Casserole.
• Heavy Cream: A small drizzle of cream adds a luxurious texture to the finished dish. For a lighter touch, milk or half-and-half works, too. No dairy? A bit of butter can serve as a substitute.
• Toasted Pumpkin Seeds (Optional): These are excellent for garnish, adding a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.

If you have any ingredients leftover from this easy pumpkin soup recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder.

Recipe Variations

Craving a different spin on this classic pumpkin soup? Good news! Here are some easy variations to help you personalize this dish to your liking.

• Bacon Infusion: Cook a strip of bacon first, remove it and set aside. Use the bacon drippings to sauté your onions and garlic. Once the soup is done, crumble the cooked bacon and stir it in for a smoky flavor twist.
• Curried Pumpkin Soup: Elevate the dish by adding a dash of curry powder. This gives the soup a complex flavor and a hint of spiciness that’s absolutely mouth-watering.
• Creole Pumpkin Soup: Add a sprinkle of creole seasoning to the soup for a little Southern zing.
• Turmeric & Cinnamon Combo: If you’re after something a bit more aromatic, consider adding ground or freshly grated turmeric. Just remember, this recipe doesn’t originally have cinnamon, but you can introduce a subtle, earthy aroma with the addition of these spices.

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How To Make Pumpkin Soup

These step-by-step photos and instructions help you visualize how to make a single serving of pumpkin soup. See the recipe box below for ingredient amounts and full recipe instructions.

1. Cook the onions and garlic in olive oil over a medium heat until softened, 2 minutes.

2. Add the pumpkin and spices and cook over medium-low heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

3. Stir in the broth and cook 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly.

4. Remove from the heat and stir in maple syrup and cream.
5. Top with pumpkin seeds, if using.

Expert Tips

• Before you start cooking, make sure to read the entire recipe, including the Ingredient Notes section, and examine the process photos. This detailed guide will help you understand how the recipe unfolds, ensuring your pumpkin soup turns out perfect every time. All the information you need is found within the body of this recipe post, so don’t miss a thing!
• Substitute with Butternut Squash: If canned pumpkin isn’t available, roasted butternut squash is an excellent alternative. Use the roasted squash just like you would the canned pumpkin and follow the rest of the recipe. To achieve a smooth texture, you’ll need to blend the soup, either with a stand blender or an immersion blender.
• Spice it Up with Red Curry Paste: For a Thai-inspired kick, mix in 1/2 teaspoon of red curry paste while sautéing the onions and garlic. This will elevate your pumpkin soup to spicy new heights.
• Adjusting Soup Consistency: If the soup turns out too thick, thin it out by adding more broth or cream. On the flip side, if it’s too thin, allow it to simmer a bit longer on the stove to reduce and thicken.
• Garnish Galore: Elevate your bowl of soup by topping it with homemade croutons and shavings of Parmesan cheese.
• Pumpkin Purée, not Pie Filling: Make sure to grab canned pumpkin purée and not pumpkin pie filling. Despite similar packaging and shelf placement, they’re not interchangeable. Pumpkin pie filling is pre-sweetened and seasoned, making it unsuitable for this soup recipe.

What To Serve With Pumpkin Soup

Wondering what to pair with your comforting bowl of soup? Look no further! Below are some scrumptious serving ideas that complement the pumpkin soup’s rich flavors perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for one or doubling the recipe, these options have got you covered.

• Turkey Tenderloin: A turkey tenderloin makes a great protein companion for your pumpkin soup, adding a hearty element to the meal.
• Ham Steak: Consider cooking up a ham steak for a salty, smoky contrast to the creamy soup.
• Baked Chicken Tenders: Lightly breaded and baked chicken tenders offer a crisp texture that pairs beautifully with the smoothness of the pumpkin soup.
• Baked Shrimp: For a seafood twist, try some baked shrimp. Their natural sweetness complements the savory notes in the soup.
• French Bread: A crusty piece of homemade bread works wonders for sopping up every last bit of the delicious soup.

Frequently Asked Questions