Butternut Squash and Sage Soup with Sage Breadcrumbs
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
This butternut squash and sage soup is a quintessential autumn warmer, balancing the natural sweetness of roasted root vegetables with the earthy, fragrant notes of fresh sage. By sautéing the squash with herbs before simmering, you build a deep savoury base that makes this dairy-free dish feel incredibly indulgent. The addition of golden garlic and a touch of sea salt enhances the vibrant colour and velvety texture of the broth.
To elevate this homemade soup into a sophisticated starter or a filling lunch, it is served with a generous sprinkling of crisp, sage-infused breadcrumbs. These provide a delightful textural contrast to the smooth purée. Whether you are looking for a healthy midweek meal or a seasonal recipe for entertaining, this comforting soup is best enjoyed with a side of crusty bread and a crack of black pepper.
In this article:
Continue reading below
Ingredients for Butternut Squash and Sage Soup with Sage Breadcrumbs
1 1/2 tablespoons butter
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
475ml chopped onions
2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley
2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage
900g 1/2-inch cubes peeled seeded butternut squash
1 1/2 teaspoons coarse sea salt
1 garlic clove, minced
1200 to 1450ml Chicken Stock or 1200 to 1450ml purchased organic chicken broth
2 crustless slices fresh whole grain wheat bread, torn
20ml butter
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage
How to make Butternut Squash and Sage Soup with Sage Breadcrumbs
Melt butter with oil in large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions, parsley, and sage; sauté until onions are softened, about 5 minutes. Add squash and coarse salt; sauté until squash softens and onions are golden, about 6 minutes. Add garlic; stir 1 minute. Add 1200ml stock; bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until squash is very soft, about 25 minutes. Cool slightly.
Working in batches, puree soup in blender, allowing some texture to remain. Return soup to pot. Thin with stock, if desired. Season with pepper and more salt, if desired. DO AHEAD: Can be made 1 day ahead. Chill uncovered until cold, then cover and chill. Rewarm before serving.
Place bread in processor; blend until fine crumbs form but some slightly coarser crumbs remain. Cook butter in large nonstick skillet over medium heat until golden, about 2 minutes. Add breadcrumbs and sage. Cook until crumbs are crisp, stirring frequently, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and cool. DO AHEAD: Can be made 4 hours ahead. Let stand uncovered at room temperature.
Ladle soup into bowls. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
17 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.