Slow Cooker Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s as delicious as Slow Cooker Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup. This dish combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the savory depth of Italian sausage, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. It’s ideal for cozy nights in, family gatherings, or even a simple weeknight dinner. The best part? You can prep it in just a few minutes and let the slow cooker do all the work. It’s a recipe that has become a staple in my home, and I promise it will quickly become a favorite in yours too.
Step-by-Step Overview
Making this soup is as easy as 1-2-3. First, you’ll brown the sausage for added flavor. Then, all the ingredients go into the slow cooker to meld together beautifully. Finally, a splash of heavy cream brings it all together just before serving. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a hearty meal that tastes like you slaved away all day.
What You’ll Need
To make this delightful soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground sweet Italian sausage
- 13 ounces frozen cubed butternut squash (about 3 cups)
- 1 32-ounce carton chicken broth (such as Swanson)
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- Optional toppings: pumpkin seeds, crushed red pepper flakes, chopped parsley, or sage
This soup is flexible too! Feel free to swap in other veggies or proteins as to your liking.
Directions to Follow
- In a large skillet, brown the ground sausage over medium heat until no pink spots remain, about 5 minutes. Drain the grease into a separate container and discard once it is cool.
- Add the cooked sausage to the slow cooker along with the diced butternut squash, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Cook in the slow cooker until the squash is tender, on high for 3.5 hours or on low for 5 hours.
- Just before serving, gently stir in the heavy cream. Take care not to stir too aggressively, or the butternut squash may fall apart.
- Serve with your favorite toppings alongside some crusty bread. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This soup shines as a standalone dish thanks to its rich flavors, but consider pairing it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also top it with a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds for crunch or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Each spoonful is a heartwarming delight!
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator. Enjoy it within 2 days for the best taste. You can also freeze the soup if you need to save it for later—just ensure it’s cooled completely before doing so. When ready to enjoy, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Browning the sausage isn’t just about cooking it; it adds flavor to the entire soup.
- Don’t rush the slow cooking—allowing the squash to tenderize will make it creamier.
- Adjust the cream to your liking; you can use less or even substitute with a non-dairy alternative.
Creative Twists
Feel free to get creative! Add other vegetables like carrots or kale for extra nutrition. You might also consider swapping out the Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. For a flavor boost, you can throw in spices like nutmeg or cinnamon, which pair beautifully with butternut squash.
Your Questions Answered
Q: How long does this soup take to prepare?
A: The prep is quick, taking about 10 minutes, and then you let the slow cooker handle the rest!
Q: Can I use fresh butternut squash instead of frozen?
A: Yes, you can certainly use fresh cubed butternut squash. Just make sure to peel and cut it before adding.
Q: How do I store leftovers safely?
A: Store cooled leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge and consume within 2 days.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is excellent for meal prep and can be made in advance and frozen for convenience.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup is not just easy to make; it also delivers on flavor, warmth, and comfort food essence. If you’re interested in a simple yet satisfying recipe, check out The 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Soup I Make on Repeat, and elevate your cozy cooking game today!
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, brown the ground sausage over medium heat until no pink spots remain, about 5 minutes. Drain the grease into a separate container and discard once it is cool.
- Add the cooked sausage to the slow cooker along with the diced butternut squash, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
- Cook in the slow cooker until the squash is tender, on high for 3.5 hours or on low for 5 hours.
- Just before serving, gently stir in the heavy cream. Take care not to stir too aggressively, or the butternut squash may fall apart.
- Serve with your favorite toppings alongside some crusty bread.
