Savory Fall Soup With Sweet Potato And Pumpkin Puree

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Warm up with a bowl of coziness featuring Fall Soup, a seasonal blend of sweet potato and pumpkin puree. Simmered together with a gentle touch of cinnamon and nutmeg, it creates a creamy and comforting bowl thatโ€™s just right for a chilly weeknight. Garnish with fresh parsley for a simple, satisfying meal that feels as welcoming as a cozy blanket by the fire.

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Bowl of creamy Fall Soup with fresh parsley garnish

Ingredients for Fall Soup

For the soup

  • Olive oil โ€“ A good drizzle to start everything off right.
  • Yellow onion โ€“ Finely chopped for that sweet, aromatic base.
  • Garlic โ€“ Freshly minced is a must for that punchy flavor.
  • Carrots โ€“ Peeled and diced for a touch of earthy sweetness.
  • Celery โ€“ Adds a lovely crunch and freshness to the mix.
  • Sweet potato โ€“ Cubed into bite-sized pieces for a hearty texture.
  • Vegetable broth โ€“ Go for low-sodium to control the seasoning.
  • Water โ€“ Just a splash to balance the broth.
  • Dried thyme โ€“ A little goes a long way for that herby warmth.
  • Ground cinnamon โ€“ Perfect for bringing out those cozy fall vibes.
  • Ground nutmeg โ€“ A pinch adds depth and richness.
  • Black pepper โ€“ Freshly ground is best for a subtle kick.
  • Kosher salt โ€“ Season to taste, but start with a teaspoon.
  • Pumpkin puree โ€“ Pure and simple for that velvety base.
  • Heavy cream โ€“ Makes the soup luxuriously creamy.

For garnish

  • Fresh parsley โ€“ Chopped finely for a bright, fresh finish.
Fresh ingredients for making a comforting Fall Soup on a wooden table

Cook Time for Creamy Fall Soup

Nothing beats a homemade Fall Soup that comes together without a fuss. I love how this recipe fits perfectly into a busy evening, letting you enjoy a from-scratch meal without spending all night in the kitchen.

Hereโ€™s what you can expect for timing, and I promise, every minute is worth it for that first warm, creamy spoonful.

Step Time
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes

If youโ€™re looking for more ways to use that sweet potato, youโ€™ll love my recipe for Maple Pecan Roasted Sweet Potatoesโ€”theyโ€™re a fantastic side dish for any autumn meal.

How to Make Creamy Fall Soup

Step 1: Sautรฉ the Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped medium yellow onion and sautรฉ for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes softened and translucent.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 peeled and diced medium carrots, and 2 diced medium celery stalks. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and release their aromas.

Sautรฉing aromatic vegetables for a savory Fall Soup base

Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

Add 1 peeled and cubed medium sweet potato, 4 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth, 1 cup of water, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the sweet potato is fork-tender.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Finish

Stir in 1 (15-ounce) can of pure pumpkin puree and 1 cup of heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup is warmed through and the ingredients are well combined, creating a velvety spiced pumpkin puree soup.

Stirring pumpkin puree into the pot to create a creamy Fall Soup

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a finishing touch.

Ladling a final serving of hot, garnished Fall Soup into a bowl

Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks

Over the years, Iโ€™ve learned that the best fall soup recipes are the ones you can make your own. Here are a few of my favorite ways to tweak this cozy classic, straight from my kitchen to yours.

  • Flavor Swap: For a different herby note, try swapping the thyme for a pinch of sage. It pairs beautifully with the pumpkin and makes this creamy pumpkin sweet potato soup feel even more rustic and autumnal.
  • Diet Tweak: To make this a lighter Fall Soup, you can easily substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. It still gives you that luxurious, creamy texture with a subtly different flavor profile.
  • Prep Fix: If youโ€™re short on time, donโ€™t skip sautรฉing the carrots and celery! This step, known as sweating, is key for building a deep, savory thyme spiced soup foundation. Itโ€™s worth the extra five minutes.
  • Storage Tip: This soup stores beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat to keep the creamy consistency. For more make-ahead inspiration, check out my other healthy fall dinner recipes. And if you find yourself with extra sweet potatoes, turning them into homemade sweet potato chips is a deliciously crunchy project!

Fall Soup

Fall Soup

320kcal
Prep 15 minutes
Cook 35 minutes
Total 50 minutes
Cozy up with this creamy Fall Soup made with sweet potato and pumpkin puree, finished with a swirl of rich heavy cream for the perfect comforting bowl.
Servings 4 bowls
Course Soup
Cuisine American

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 medium celery stalks, diced
  • 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 can pure pumpkin puree 15-ounce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

Method

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and sautรฉ for 3 minutes until softened and translucent.
  2. Stir in the garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
  3. Add the sweet potato, vegetable broth, water, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the sweet potato is fork-tender.
  4. Stir in the pumpkin puree and heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup is warmed through and well combined.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Calories320kcalCarbohydrates30gProtein5gFat20gSaturated Fat10gPolyunsaturated Fat1gMonounsaturated Fat7gCholesterol40mgSodium680mgPotassium800mgFiber4gSugar6gVitamin A15000IUVitamin C10mgCalcium100mgIron1.5mg

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Nutrition and Health Benefits

I love knowing that a warming bowl of this Fall Soup not only comforts the soul but also nourishes the body. Made with wholesome ingredients, itโ€™s one of those autumn soup recipes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.

Letโ€™s break down what makes this creamy pumpkin sweet potato soup such a lovely choice for a healthy meal.


Nutrient Benefits
Sweet Potato Rich in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants.
Pumpkin Puree Packed with vitamins C and E, and great for digestion.
Carrots & Celery Add extra fiber, crunch, and earthy sweetness.

For more inspiration on balancing nutrition and flavor in your meals, take a look at my roundup of healthy fall dinner recipes. And if youโ€™re looking for another veggie-packed option, my roasted sweet potato kale quinoa salad is a perfect side or light meal.

Building a velvety spiced pumpkin puree soup like this reminds me how simple ingredients can come together into something truly special. For more classic techniques and ideas, I often turn to trusted resources like NYT Cookingโ€™s Customizable Vegetable Soup guide.


A Lighter Version of Fall Soup

Sometimes you want all the cozy flavor of this Fall Soup with a little less richness. Luckily, this recipe is wonderfully adaptable for those looking for a lighter touch.

Here are my favorite simple swaps that keep the soul of the dish intact while tweaking it to fit your needs.


Instead of heavy cream, try using full-fat coconut milk. It still gives you that luxuriously creamy texture with a subtly tropical note. You can also reduce the oil by using vegetable broth for sautรฉingโ€”just a splash to keep things from sticking.

If you love exploring lighter recipes, you might enjoy my Tom Kha Gai soup, which uses coconut milk beautifully. And for another seasonal favorite that wonโ€™t weigh you down, my fall fruit salad is fresh, vibrant, and perfect alongside a warm bowl of soup.


Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets

I truly believe that good food should be accessible to everyone, no matter your dietary needs. In my kitchen, I love finding simple ways to adapt recipes so that everyone at the table can enjoy a heartfelt meal together.

If youโ€™re sugar-conscious or managing blood sugar, this Fall Soup can easily become more diabetic-friendly. First, you can omit any added sweetenersโ€”the natural sweetness from sweet potatoes and carrots is often plenty. For even more control, consider using a natural sugar alternative like stevia in place of any sweet components in garnishes or toppings.

Another tip is to balance your portion with a source of protein or healthy fat, which can help with glycemic response. A sprinkle of toasted pepitas or a side of roasted chicken works wonderfully.


How to Serve Fall Soup

Thereโ€™s something almost ceremonial about ladling out a hot bowl of Fall Soup as the leaves turn and the air grows crisp. I love serving this soup with thick, crusty bread for dippingโ€”it just feels right.

For a heartier meal, pair it with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. My family often enjoys this as a starter before a main like potato squash casserole or healthy Thanksgiving sides.


A beautifully styled table setting with Fall Soup, bread, and autumn decor

Iโ€™ll never forget the first time I made this soup for a gathering of friends here in Provence. We sat around a long wooden table as dusk settled in, steam rising from our bowls, laughter floating through the kitchen. It was one of those perfect fall evenings where good food and good company just clicked.

Whether youโ€™re serving it for a quiet dinner or a festive autumn meal, this savory thyme spiced soup has a way of bringing people together. And honestly, isnโ€™t that what the best fall soups are all about?

Mistakes to Avoid

Iโ€™ve made my share of soup mistakes over the years, especially when first developing this Fall Soup recipe. Learning from errors is how we grow in the kitchen, so I want to share what Iโ€™ve discovered to help you avoid common pitfalls.

First, donโ€™t rush the sautรฉ step. Those aromatics need time to soften and release their flavors properly. If you crank up the heat too high, you might burn the garlic or onions instead of gently caramelizing them.

Second, be careful with your seasoning timing. I once added salt too early and ended up with an overly salty Fall Soup after it reduced. Now I wait until the final simmer to adjust seasoning.

Finally, donโ€™t skip the immersion blender step if you want that signature velvety texture. A chunky vegetable soup is wonderful, but this particular Fall Soup recipe shines when itโ€™s creamy and smooth.

For more guidance on perfecting your soup techniques, I often turn to trusted resources like NYT Cookingโ€™s Customizable Vegetable Soup guide. And if youโ€™re looking for another comforting option, my classic chicken soup recipe teaches great foundational skills.

Remember, even mistakes make great stories. Iโ€™ll never forget the time I confused cayenne for paprika and served what we now call โ€œFire Soupโ€ to unsuspecting dinner guests. We still laugh about it years later!


How to Store Fall Soup

This creamy pumpkin sweet potato soup actually improves in flavor after sitting overnight, making it perfect for meal prep. I love having containers ready in the fridge for quick lunches throughout the week.

For refrigeration, let the soup cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will keep beautifully for 4-5 days. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of broth or water as it thickens when chilled.

For freezing, portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space for expansion. This hearty Fall Soup freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.

If you enjoy meal prepping like I do, you might also appreciate my Mexican sweet potato chicken soup which stores equally well. And for another make-ahead option, try my sweet potato chicken soup recipe thatโ€™s perfect for busy weeks.

I always think of my grandmother when I package up leftovers. She never wasted a thing and taught me that a well-stocked freezer is like money in the bank for tired days.


Try This Fall Soup Yourself

I hope this savory thyme spiced soup becomes a regular in your autumn rotation just like it has in mine. Thereโ€™s something magical about how these simple ingredients transform into such comfort.

The first time I served this Fall Soup to my book club, the entire pot disappeared before we even discussed the novel. Now they request it every season, and I always make extra for them to take home.

Whether youโ€™re cooking for a crowd or just need some cozy comfort on a chilly evening, this roasted vegetable autumn bisque will warm you from the inside out. Donโ€™t forget to make enough for leftoversโ€”theyโ€™re even better the next day.

If you love this Fall Soup, you might also enjoy exploring my other seasonal favorites like healthy soup recipes, sweet potato chips for crunch, or maple pecan roasted sweet potatoes as a side. For something different, try my grilled sweet potato wedges or roasted pumpkin seeds for zero-waste cooking.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good fall soup to make?

This creamy pumpkin sweet potato soup is an excellent fall soup to make because it uses seasonal ingredients at their peak flavor. Itโ€™s warming, nutritious, and captures the essence of autumn in every spoonful. The combination of sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and warming spices creates a perfect balance of comfort and flavor.


What was Julia Childโ€™s favorite soup?

While Julia Child loved many soups, she was particularly famous for her French onion soup with its rich broth and cheesy crouton topping. She appreciated soups that built deep layers of flavor through careful cooking techniques. Her approach to soup-making emphasized using quality ingredients and not rushing the cooking process.


What are the three ingredients in pumpkin soup?

The three essential ingredients in most pumpkin soups are pumpkin puree, broth (vegetable or chicken), and aromatics like onions or garlic. However, the best pumpkin soups often include additional ingredients like cream, spices, or other vegetables to create a more complex flavor profile. This Fall Soup recipe builds on those basics with sweet potatoes and thyme for extra depth.


What is Queen Elizabethโ€™s favorite soup?

Queen Elizabeth II was said to be particularly fond of game soup, especially when made with venison or grouse from the royal estates. She also enjoyed traditional Scottish Cullen skink, a hearty smoked fish soup. Like many Britons, she appreciated classic soups that showcased local, seasonal ingredients prepared with care.



Cozy Autumn Recipes to Warm Your Season

As the leaves turn and temperatures drop, these comforting dishes will keep your kitchen warm and your family well-fed.

Homemade Sweet Potato Chips โ€“ Crispy, lightly salted slices that make the perfect snack or soup topper.
Roasted Sweet Potato Kale Quinoa Salad โ€“ A hearty, nutrient-packed side that complements any autumn meal.
Tom Kha Gai Soup โ€“ A creamy Thai coconut soup with comforting flavors and a touch of spice.
Fall Fruit Salad โ€“ A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits with a hint of citrus and honey.
Potato Squash Casserole โ€“ Layers of savory goodness baked to perfection for Sunday dinners.
Healthy Thanksgiving Sides โ€“ Lighter versions of holiday classics that donโ€™t skimp on flavor.
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