Hearty Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup

Short Description

This Hearty Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. Packed with rich flavors from savory sausage, creamy butternut squash, and aromatic herbs, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful & Comforting: The combination of sweet butternut squash and savory sausage creates a perfect balance of flavors.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this soup is beginner-friendly.
• Nutritious & Filling: Butternut squash is rich in vitamins and fiber, while sausage adds protein, making this a well-rounded meal.
• Versatile: Can be customized with different spices, meats, or vegetables to suit your taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for batch cooking.

Ingredients

• Butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• Ground sausage (pork, chicken, or turkey)
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Carrots, sliced
• Celery, chopped
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Heavy cream or coconut milk
• Olive oil or butter
• Fresh thyme or dried thyme
• Ground nutmeg
• Salt and black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Sauté the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Squash and Broth: Add the butternut squash, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Pour in the broth, ensuring the squash is fully submerged.
4. Simmer Until Tender: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender.
5. Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer portions to a blender and blend in batches.
6. Add Cream and Sausage: Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and return the cooked sausage to the pot. Simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
7. Adjust Seasonings & Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and extra thyme if desired.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the sausage for plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a meat-free version.
• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage for a bolder flavor.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative.
• Extra Greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale at the end for added nutrients.
• Chunky Texture: If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as-is.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this soup thicker?

You can reduce the amount of broth or let the soup simmer longer to thicken. Alternatively, add a small amount of mashed potatoes or cornstarch slurry.

Can I use pre-cut butternut squash?

Yes! Using pre-cut butternut squash saves time and makes the preparation process even easier.

What’s the best type of sausage for this soup?

Italian sausage (mild or spicy) works best, but you can also use breakfast sausage, chorizo, or even turkey sausage.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Brown the sausage first, then add all ingredients (except cream) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Blend, add cream, and serve.

Is this soup keto-friendly?

It can be! Butternut squash is slightly higher in carbs, but you can reduce the amount used or substitute with cauliflower for a lower-carb version.

Can I use a different type of squash?

Yes! Try acorn squash, kabocha, or pumpkin for a similar taste and texture.

What can I serve with this soup?

Pair it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.

Does this soup freeze well?

Yes! It freezes beautifully. Just be sure to leave out the cream if you plan to freeze, then add it when reheating.

How do I prevent the soup from being too sweet?

Balance the natural sweetness of butternut squash by adding extra salt, black pepper, or spicy elements like red pepper flakes.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Make it ahead and store in the fridge for a quick meal.

Conclusion

This Hearty Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup is the perfect blend of rich, comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re meal prepping, looking for a cozy dinner, or serving guests, this soup is sure to please. Try it today and enjoy a warm, nourishing bowl of goodness!

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