Crockpot Butternut Squash Soup is a warm, comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days. This creamy and velvety soup combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with aromatic spices and savory ingredients, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also a breeze to make—simply toss your ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work for you. The result is a rich and satisfying soup that is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will fall in love with this Crockpot Butternut Squash Soup for its unbeatable flavor profile and simplicity. The combination of sweet butternut squash, aromatic onions, and fragrant spices like nutmeg and cinnamon creates a comforting bowl that warms the soul. Plus, the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an incredibly rich taste. This recipe fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle, being naturally gluten-free, low in calories, and packed with vitamins and nutrients, making it ideal for those following a clean-eating or plant-based diet.
Tips and Tricks
To make the most out of your Crockpot Butternut Squash Soup, here are some handy tips:
- Peeling and Cutting: If peeling a butternut squash seems daunting, consider using pre-cut squash from your grocery store to save time.
- Flavor Boost: Enhance the flavor by adding a splash of apple cider or orange juice to the soup before blending. It adds a lovely hint of sweetness.
- Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, add a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream before serving. Blend it in for a luscious finish.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy heat, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Make Ahead Tips
This soup is perfect for meal prep! You can chop and prepare the butternut squash, onions, and garlic ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Additionally, the soup itself can be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. Just ensure that you allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Recipe Variations
To keep things exciting, try these variations:
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked lentils or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or sage during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an aromatic twist.
- Different Squashes: Experiment with other types of squash, such as acorn or kabocha, for varied flavors and textures.
How to Serve
Serve your Crockpot Butternut Squash Soup warm, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk or cream for an elegant touch. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add a pop of color. Pair it with a crunchy baguette or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Present it in rustic bowls to enhance the cozy vibe of the dish.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the sweetness of the squash. Alternatively, a warm chai tea or spiced apple cider can enhance the comforting flavors. As for sides, crusty bread or a simple green salad with vinaigrette pairs beautifully. For dessert, a slice of pumpkin pie or apple crisp would round out the meal perfectly.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to freeze the soup, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Equipment Needed
You will need a slow cooker (crockpot) for this recipe. If you don’t have a crockpot, a stovetop pot can work—just simmer on low heat for about 30-45 minutes instead. A blender or immersion blender is also necessary to achieve that creamy consistency.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and avoid any dairy products. For a nut-free version, skip any toppings that contain nuts, and if you need a gluten-free option, this soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use certified gluten-free broth.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, you can add roasted apples or pears for a sweet twist. In winter, consider adding hearty greens like kale or spinach during the last hour of cooking. During spring, fresh herbs can be swapped in to bring brightness to the dish.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use frozen butternut squash? Yes, frozen butternut squash works perfectly in this recipe. Just add it directly to the crockpot without thawing.
2. How long should I cook it? Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.
3. What can I substitute for the broth? Water can be used, but broth adds depth and flavor.
How To Make Crockpot Butternut Squash Soup
Crockpot Butternut Squash Soup
Crockpot Butternut Squash Soup is a warm, comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days. This creamy and velvety soup combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with aromatic spices and savory ingredients, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup coconut milk (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by peeling and chopping the butternut squash into small cubes. This will help it cook evenly and blend smoothly later.
- In the crockpot, combine the chopped butternut squash, diced onion, minced garlic, and spices (nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, and pepper).
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, ensuring all the ingredients are submerged.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the butternut squash is tender.
- Once cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a regular blender in batches.
- If using, stir in the coconut milk for added creaminess.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of coconut milk.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 182Total Fat 9gSaturated Fat 7gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 1gCholesterol 1mgSodium 253mgCarbohydrates 23gFiber 7gSugar 5gProtein 5g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Butternut Squash Soup is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly rewarding. With its comforting flavors and versatility, it’s a recipe you’ll want to return to time and again. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or a cozy gathering, this soup is sure to impress. So grab your crockpot, and let the magic happen as you create a dish that warms both the heart and the soul!
