Oh, I absolutely love how this Creamy Pumpkin Ginger Soup Recipe turns out — it’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! The sweetness of roasted sugar pumpkin, paired with the gentle warmth of fresh ginger and aromatic herbs, makes this soup feel special without any fuss. Whether you’re looking for a comforting lunch on a chilly day or a stunning starter for a holiday meal, this soup has your back.
When I first tried this recipe, I was surprised at how smooth and luscious it became thanks to the Greek yogurt — it adds creaminess without heaviness, which is a total win in my book. You’ll find that the ginger gives just the right zing to balance the pumpkin’s natural sweetness, making this a soup you’ll want to return to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor Without Cream: Greek yogurt adds creaminess with less fat and calories.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses accessible pantry staples that blend beautifully.
- Versatile & Cozy: Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests during the holidays.
- Make Ahead Friendly: Freezes beautifully for quick warming later on.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The combination of roasted sugar pumpkin and fresh ginger is what truly makes this Creamy Pumpkin Ginger Soup Recipe sing — plus a few herbs and shallots to round it out. I always recommend fresh ingredients where you can, especially the thyme and sage, for that extra aromatic touch.
- Sugar pumpkin: Look for a small to medium sugar pumpkin, which is sweeter and less stringy than carving pumpkins.
- Fresh thyme sprigs: Adds a subtle earthy note that complements the sweetness of the pumpkin.
- Olive oil: Use good quality extra virgin for roasting for enhanced flavor.
- Kosher salt: Always better for seasoning evenly and avoiding over-salting.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth—freshly ground is always best here.
- Butter: Brings richness and helps soften the shallots.
- Large shallots: Milder and sweeter than onions, they elevate the soup’s complexity.
- Vegetable or chicken broth: Use low sodium so you can control the saltiness as you go.
- Fresh grated ginger: The star that gives this soup its warming bite.
- Fresh sage leaves: Adds a savory herbal punch that pairs well with pumpkin.
- Fresh nutmeg: Just a pinch enhances the warmth and earthiness.
- 0% fat Stonyfield Greek plain yogurt: For creamy texture and a tangy balance, plus protein! You can swap for any plain Greek yogurt you like.
- Chopped chives: Fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens the soup.
- Pepitas (optional): Adds delightful crunch and nutty flavor for finishing touches.
Variations
I love to tinker with this Creamy Pumpkin Ginger Soup Recipe depending on what I have in the kitchen or the mood of my guests. Don’t be afraid to play around—there are so many ways to make it your own!
- Dairy-Free Version: I swap the Greek yogurt for full-fat coconut milk for decadence without dairy, and it’s delicious!
- Spicy Kick: When I want more heat, I add a pinch of cayenne or some finely chopped fresh chili—it wakes everything up wonderfully.
- Herb Swap: Sometimes I replace sage and thyme with rosemary or fresh basil for a different herbal profile.
- Chunky Style: For a heartier version, I reserve some roasted pumpkin chunks to stir in after pureeing to add texture.
How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Ginger Soup Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Pumpkin to Perfection
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (205°C). Lightly oil a baking sheet so the pumpkin won’t stick. Lay the pumpkin quarters and fresh thyme on the sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with about 1/4 teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper. Give everything a gentle toss to coat evenly, then spread out in a single layer. Roast for 60 to 65 minutes, stirring halfway through so the pumpkin cooks evenly and develops that lovely roasted sweetness. You’ll know it’s ready when you can easily pierce the pumpkin with a fork—soft and tender without falling apart.
Step 2: Sauté the Shallots and Combine Ingredients
While the pumpkin cools, melt the butter in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and cook gently until they soften and turn translucent, around 4 to 5 minutes. This step builds a sweet, savory base for the soup, so don’t rush it or let them brown too much. Next, stir in the roasted pumpkin, fresh grated ginger, broth, and chopped sage leaves. Season with 3/4 teaspoon salt and more pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, letting all those flavors meld together.
Step 3: Puree and Finish with Greek Yogurt
Remove the pot from heat and, using an immersion blender, puree the soup right in the pot until ultra-smooth. If you prefer, you can transfer batches to a blender, but be careful with hot liquids. Once smooth, swirl in the Greek yogurt gently for a creamy finish that balances the soup’s warmth with a slight tang. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into warm bowls. I always top mine with a sprinkle of chopped chives, a dusting of fresh nutmeg, and a spoonful of additional Greek yogurt for that beautiful contrast. If you’re feeling fancy or want some crunch, pepitas scattered on top add the perfect nutty bite. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pumpkin Ginger Soup Recipe
- Choose the Right Pumpkin: Sugar pumpkins have the best flavor and texture for soups compared to carving varieties.
- Don’t Skip Roasting: Roasting intensifies the pumpkin’s sweetness and adds depth to the soup.
- Go Easy on the Broth: Add broth gradually while blending to reach your ideal consistency without thinning the soup too much.
- Add Yogurt Last: To prevent curdling or separation, stir in Greek yogurt off the heat at the end.
How to Serve Creamy Pumpkin Ginger Soup Recipe
Garnishes
I’m a huge fan of simple garnishes that add both flavor and texture. Chopped chives bring a fresh, mild oniony note that brightens each spoonful. A light sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg enhances that warm spice character without overpowering. And if you want to impress guests, pepitas give a satisfying crunch and make the soup feel extra special.
Side Dishes
To make a complete meal, I like serving this soup with a crusty artisan bread or homemade garlic bread. It’s perfect for dipping and soaking up every last delicious drop. If I want something a little heartier, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the creamy soup beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I’ve served this Creamy Pumpkin Ginger Soup Recipe in hollowed-out mini pumpkins as fun little bowls — it’s a crowd-pleaser and super festive. Drizzling spirals of yogurt on top with a tiny pinch of smoky paprika makes a pretty finish. Also, try adding a few toasted pepitas on dollops of yogurt for texture that guests always ask about!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I recommend transferring leftover soup to airtight containers and storing it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you reheat, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep that velvety texture smooth and prevent scorching.
Freezing
I’ve had great luck freezing this soup without the Greek yogurt or garnishes—those go in after reheating for best flavor. Portion the cooled soup into freezer bags, lay flat, and freeze. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat this soup slowly in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid hot spots. Once warmed through, mix in the yogurt and add fresh garnishes to revive the soup’s creamy, fresh flavors.
FAQs
-
Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh pumpkin?
Absolutely! While fresh roasted sugar pumpkin offers the best flavor and texture, canned pure pumpkin can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to choose plain pumpkin puree without added spices or sweeteners, and adjust the broth amounts to get the right consistency.
-
Is this soup gluten-free and vegetarian?
Yes! This Creamy Pumpkin Ginger Soup Recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, especially if you use vegetable broth. It’s a fantastic option for many dietary preferences.
-
Can I make this soup spicier?
Definitely! For a spicier twist, try adding turmeric, cayenne pepper, or a small diced chili pepper while sautéing the shallots. Start with small amounts and add more based on your heat tolerance.
-
How do I prevent the yogurt from curdling?
Great question! To avoid curdling, always add Greek yogurt off the heat and stir gently after pureeing the soup. Heating yogurt directly can cause it to separate, so patience here makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pumpkin Ginger Soup Recipe has become a personal favorite for cozy nights when I want something nourishing and genuinely comforting without a lot of fuss. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate pumpkin season in a comforting bowl that feels fancy but is actually straightforward to make. Give it a try—I promise you’ll enjoy the balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors just as much as my family does!
PrintCreamy Pumpkin Ginger Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This creamy pumpkin ginger soup is a comforting and flavorful dish made by roasting a sugar pumpkin with fresh thyme, then blending it with shallots, ginger, sage, and Greek yogurt to create a smooth, hearty soup perfect for fall or any time you crave a warm, healthy meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 3-pound sugar pumpkin, halved, seeded, and quartered
- 6 fresh thyme sprigs
- 2 large shallots, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 3 fresh sage leaves, chopped
- Chopped chives (for garnish)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon fresh nutmeg (plus more for garnish)
Liquids and Fats
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth (plus more if needed)
- 1/4 cup 0% fat Stonyfield Greek plain yogurt
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- Salt and black pepper to taste (1/4 teaspoon salt for roasting pumpkin, 3/4 teaspoon salt for soup)
Optional Garnish
- Pepitas (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pumpkin: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Lightly oil a baking sheet or coat it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Roast Pumpkin: Place the halved, seeded, and quartered sugar pumpkin on the prepared baking sheet along with the fresh thyme sprigs. Drizzle with olive oil and season with 1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss gently to coat evenly and spread the pieces in a single layer. Roast in the oven for 60 to 65 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the pumpkin is fork-tender.
- Cool and Peel Pumpkin: After roasting, allow the pumpkin to cool enough to handle. Remove the peel from the roasted pumpkin quarters carefully; the flesh will be soft and ready for blending.
- Sauté Shallots: While the pumpkin cools, heat 1 tablespoon butter in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the peeled pumpkin flesh and fresh grated ginger to the pot with the shallots. Pour in the 3 cups of vegetable or chicken broth and stir in the chopped sage leaves. Season with 3/4 teaspoon Kosher salt and additional black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately remove from heat.
- Blend Soup: Using an immersion blender, puree the soup in the pot until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. Stir in the 1/4 cup of 0% fat Greek plain yogurt and blend again briefly to combine thoroughly.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into 4 bowls. Garnish each serving with chopped chives, a sprinkle of fresh nutmeg, a dollop of extra yogurt if desired, and pepitas for added texture and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- TO FREEZE: Omit the Greek yogurt and garnishes until ready to serve. Portion the cooled soup into Ziplock freezer bags and lay them flat in a single layer in the freezer.
- When ready to use, transfer the soup to the refrigerator the night before reheating. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- Add the yogurt and garnish after reheating for best flavor and texture.
- If the soup is too thick after blending, add additional broth or water to reach desired consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 145 kcal
- Sugar: 7.5 g
- Sodium: 926 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 3.5 g
- Protein: 3.5 g
- Cholesterol: 8 mg