Spicy Pumpkin Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons

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When the chilly breeze kicks in and the leaves turn golden, nothing hits the spot quite like a warm bowl of spicy pumpkin soup. This creamy, velvety dish brings all the cozy fall flavors you crave, with a bold kick of spice to wake up your taste buds. It’s hearty enough to serve as a standalone meal, but what makes it unforgettable? Crunchy, melty grilled cheese croutons floating on top like golden treasures.

This soup is not only delicious, it also comes together quickly with pantry staples and fresh seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or planning a comforting dinner party starter, this dish delivers on flavor, texture, and presentation. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for the family.

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What Kind of Pumpkin Should I Use?

For best results, go with canned pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) for a smooth, consistent texture. If you prefer fresh pumpkin, sugar pumpkins (also called pie pumpkins) are perfect. Roast, scoop, and blend them until silky for the best homemade base.

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Ingredients for the Spicy Pumpkin Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 (15 oz) can pure pumpkin
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (or heavy cream)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Grilled Cheese Croutons:

• 4 slices of sourdough or country bread
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter (for grilling)

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How To Make the Spicy Pumpkin Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Spice It Up

Add cumin, paprika, cayenne, cinnamon, and ginger. Stir continuously for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.

Step 3: Add the Pumpkin and Broth

Pour in the pumpkin puree and vegetable broth. Stir until fully combined, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Simmer and Blend

Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth (or transfer to a blender in batches).

Step 5: Creamy Finish

Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper. Let simmer another 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 6: Make the Grilled Cheese Croutons

Butter one side of each bread slice, place cheese between the unbuttered sides, and grill in a pan until golden. Let cool slightly, then cut into cubes.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls and top with grilled cheese croutons. Sprinkle with extra paprika or fresh herbs if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Spicy Pumpkin Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons

This soup is a cozy main or starter. Serve it with a drizzle of coconut milk, a sprinkle of chili flakes, or a few roasted pepitas for extra crunch. It pairs perfectly with a crisp salad or a slice of rustic bread.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Grilled cheese croutons are best fresh, but you can re-crisp them in a hot pan or toaster oven.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just prepare the croutons fresh before serving.

Can I freeze pumpkin soup?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months. Leave out the coconut milk until reheating for best texture.

What can I use instead of coconut milk?

Heavy cream or half-and-half work great. For a dairy-free version, stick with full-fat coconut or cashew cream.

How spicy is this soup?

It has a gentle heat from the cayenne and spices. Adjust the cayenne to your taste or omit entirely for a milder version.

Can I add protein?

Yes! Try adding cooked shredded chicken, crispy tofu, or white beans for a protein boost.

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Want More Soup Ideas with a Twist?

If this Spicy Pumpkin Soup has you craving more cozy comfort food, here are a few other soups worth curling up with:

• Cozy Chicken Vegetable Soup is a hearty classic with a healthy twist.
• Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is rich, decadent, and totally indulgent.
• Cajun White Chicken Chili brings a bold Southern flair to your bowl.
• Thick and Creamy Seafood Chowder is loaded with flavor and perfect for chilly nights.
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta if you’re in the mood to switch things up from soup to skillet.

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📌 Save this Spicy Pumpkin Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons to your Pinterest soup board so you can find it on your next cozy night in.

And don’t forget to share how it turned out! Did you go bold with the spices or keep it mellow? Try any fun twists? Tag me or drop your experience in the comments.

Want more ideas like this? Follow Nina Dishes on Pinterest for daily seasonal inspiration and comfort food favorites.

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