Air Fryer Spiced Butternut Squash Soup

Can you make soup in an air fryer?

Sort of. You can use your air fryer to roast or caramelise your ingredients first. For example, when making air fryer parsnip soup, roast your parsnips, onions and garlic in the air fryer until golden and tender. Then blend them with stock to create a creamy, spiced soup that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. The air fryer gives your veggies a deep, rich flavour that makes the soup extra delicious.

How do you make parsnip soup in an air fryer?

To make air fryer parsnip soup, chop your parsnips and place them in the air fryer with a drizzle of oil and your favourite spices — I love cumin, paprika and a pinch of chilli for warmth. Air fry until golden and slightly crisp around the edges, then transfer to a blender with hot vegetable stock. Blend until smooth and creamy. It’s a quick, healthy way to make a warming parsnip soup with loads of flavour and minimal fuss.

Why roast vegetables in the air fryer before making soup?

Roasting vegetables in the air fryer first gives your soup a deeper, more intense flavour without needing loads of oil. The hot air circulation caramelises the natural sugars in vegetables like parsnips, carrots and onions, creating that lovely sweet-and-savoury base. When blended into soup, it tastes rich and comforting — perfect for autumn or winter lunches.

Can I reheat soup in the air fryer?

You can’t reheat soup directly in the air fryer basket since it’s a liquid, but you can reheat it safely by using a heatproof bowl or ramekin that fits inside your air fryer. Cover it loosely with foil and heat for a few minutes until piping hot. Or, for best results, reheat your parsnip soup on the hob or in the microwave.

Is air fryer soup healthy?

Yes — using the air fryer for your soup ingredients can make it even healthier. It helps you cook with less oil while still getting that roasted flavour. My air fryer spiced parsnip soup is a great example — it’s packed with fibre, low in fat and full of natural sweetness from the roasted parsnips, making it a lighter but still satisfying option.

What other soups can I start in the air fryer?

You can roast almost any soup base vegetables in the air fryer — think carrots, tomatoes, peppers, sweet potatoes or butternut squash. Once roasted, just blend them with stock and seasoning. Try air fryer tomato soup, air fryer butternut squash soup or air fryer carrot and coriander soup. The method works brilliantly every time!

Can I freeze air fryer parsnip soup?

Yes — air fryer parsnip soup freezes really well. Once it’s cooled, portion it into containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat on the hob until steaming hot. It’s ideal for batch cooking healthy lunches.