Olivia Carter
If you’re on the hunt for a delicious and comforting soup recipe, look no further than this best butternut squash soup made in the slow cooker. This recipe takes advantage of the rich and creamy texture of butternut squash, creating a soup that is both satisfying and full of flavor.
This slow cooker soup is incredibly easy to make. Simply gather your ingredients, including butternut squash, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, and a few spices. Then, let your slow cooker do all the work. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a soup that is bursting with taste.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a comforting weekday dinner, or as an elegant appetizer for a dinner party. Feel free to garnish it with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs, or even some crispy croutons.
How to Make Butternut Squash Soup in a Slow Cooker
Butternut squash soup is a delicious, comforting dish that is perfect for cozy fall and winter evenings. Making it in a slow cooker is a convenient and hands-off way to prepare this tasty soup. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together and the squash to become tender, resulting in a creamy and flavorful soup.
To start, you’ll need to gather your ingredients. You’ll need a butternut squash, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Peel and dice the butternut squash, and chop the onion and garlic. You’ll also want to measure out your spices and vegetable broth.
Next, you’ll want to sauté the onion and garlic in a pan until they become fragrant and slightly caramelized. This step adds a depth of flavor to the soup. Once the onion and garlic are cooked, transfer them to the slow cooker. Add in the diced butternut squash, vegetable broth, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the butternut squash is tender. Once the squash is cooked, use an immersion blender or a regular blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, be sure to blend in batches to avoid any accidents.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your taste. Once the soup is seasoned to your liking, it’s ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped thyme or a swirl of cream, if desired. Serve the butternut squash soup hot and enjoy its creamy and comforting goodness.
Ingredients for a Delicious Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
The key to making the best butternut squash soup lies in choosing the right ingredients. Here are the essential components that will bring a depth of flavor and a creamy texture to your soup:
- Butternut Squash: The star of the show, butternut squash is naturally sweet and has a velvety texture when cooked. Look for a squash that feels heavy for its size and has a firm skin.
- Onion: A yellow or white onion adds a savory element to the soup and helps to enhance the overall flavor. Sauteeing the onion before adding other ingredients will enhance its natural sweetness.
- Garlic: A few cloves of garlic will give the soup a fragrant and aromatic quality. You can adjust the amount of garlic based on your personal preference.
- Vegetable Stock: Using vegetable stock as the base for the soup adds depth of flavor without overpowering the sweetness of the butternut squash.
- Coconut Milk: To achieve a creamy and luscious texture, coconut milk is the perfect addition. It adds a subtle tropical note that complements the sweetness of the butternut squash.
- Spices: A combination of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cayenne pepper will elevate the flavors of the soup and give it a warm and comforting taste.
- Salt and Pepper: To season the soup and bring out the flavors of the other ingredients, make sure to add salt and pepper to taste.
By using these carefully selected ingredients, you will create a butternut squash soup that is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making it in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, these components will ensure that every spoonful is a delight to your taste buds.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Butternut Squash Soup
To make a delicious butternut squash soup in a slow cooker, follow these step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients for your butternut squash soup. You will need:
- 1 medium-sized butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream (optional, for added richness)
Step 2: Preparing the Slow Cooker
Next, prepare your slow cooker by spraying the inside with cooking spray or lining it with a slow cooker liner. This will make clean-up easier later on.
Step 3: Combining the Ingredients
In the slow cooker, combine the cubed butternut squash, diced onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Cooking the Soup
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The butternut squash should be tender and easily mashed with a fork when it’s done.
Step 5: Blending the Soup
Once the butternut squash is cooked, use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth. Be careful when using a regular blender, as the hot soup can cause steam to build up and potentially cause the blender lid to pop off. If using a regular blender, you may need to blend the soup in batches.
Step 6: Adding Optional Ingredients
At this point, you can add the optional 1/2 cup of heavy cream if you’d like a richer soup. Stir it in until well combined.
Step 7: Adjusting the Seasonings
Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, cinnamon, or nutmeg to suit your preferences.
Step 8: Serving and Enjoying
Ladle the butternut squash soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of sour cream, if desired. Enjoy your homemade butternut squash soup!
Tips for Enhancing the Flavor of Butternut Squash Soup
Butternut squash soup is a delicious and comforting dish that can be made even more flavorful with a few simple tips. Whether you’re making it in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, these suggestions will help elevate the taste and make it a standout dish.
1. Roast the Butternut Squash: Instead of simply adding cubed butternut squash to the soup, try roasting it first. This will bring out the natural sweetness of the squash and add depth of flavor to the soup. Simply toss the squash with some olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized.
2. Use Homemade Stock: While store-bought stock can work in a pinch, using homemade stock will give your soup a richer and more complex flavor. You can make vegetable, chicken, or even bone broth at home, using ingredients like carrots, onions, celery, and herbs. This will add a homemade touch to your soup and enhance its taste.
3. Incorporate Aromatic Spices: Adding aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cumin, or curry powder can transform a basic butternut squash soup into a more exotic and flavorful dish. Experiment with different spice combinations to find your favorite blend and adjust the quantities to suit your taste.
4. Finish with Cream or Coconut Milk: For a creamier and more indulgent texture, consider adding a splash of cream or coconut milk to your soup. This will not only enhance the richness but also balance out the flavors, especially if you’ve added any spicy or savory elements.
5. Garnish with Fresh Herbs or Toasted Seeds: To add a burst of freshness and texture to the soup, garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives. You can also sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds on top for a crunchy element. These garnishes will not only enhance the flavor but also make your soup visually appealing.
By following these tips, you can take a basic butternut squash soup recipe and turn it into a flavorful and satisfying dish that will impress your family and friends.
Serving Suggestions for Butternut Squash Soup
Butternut squash soup is a delicious and comforting dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other dishes for a complete meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance the flavors and presentation of your butternut squash soup:
1. Garnish with roasted pumpkin seeds: Sprinkle a handful of roasted pumpkin seeds on top of the soup for added crunch and nuttiness. This will not only provide a textural contrast but also bring out the natural sweetness of the squash.
2. Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich: Serve your butternut squash soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a fulfilling and satisfying meal. The creamy soup and the melted, gooey cheese paired with toasted bread create a perfect combination of flavors and textures.
3. Serve with crusty bread: Accompany your butternut squash soup with a slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette. This will provide a hearty element to the meal and also allow you to dip the bread into the soup, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
4. Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt: For a tangy twist, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to your soup. This will add a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the squash.
5. Sprinkle with fresh herbs: Finely chop some fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or cilantro and sprinkle them on top of the soup before serving. This will not only add a burst of color but also enhance the aroma and freshness of the dish.
6. Serve with a side salad: For a lighter and more balanced meal, serve your butternut squash soup with a side salad. Choose crisp greens like spinach or arugula and toss them with a light vinaigrette to complement the richness of the soup.
Frequently Asked Questions about Butternut Squash Soup
Here are some commonly asked questions about butternut squash soup:
1. Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash for this soup recipe. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the slow cooker. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly depending on the temperature of the squash when added.
2. Can I use a different type of squash?
While butternut squash is the most commonly used variety for soup, you can experiment with other types of squash as well. Acorn squash, pumpkin, or even a combination of different squashes can be used to make a unique and flavorful soup.
3. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make butternut squash soup on the stovetop. Simply follow the recipe instructions but instead of transferring everything to a slow cooker, let it simmer on low heat for about an hour until the squash is soft. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
4. Can I add other ingredients to the soup?
Absolutely! This recipe serves as a basic guide, but feel free to add your own twist by including other ingredients such as carrots, apples, ginger, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Just keep in mind that additional ingredients may alter the flavor and consistency of the soup.
5. How should I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, let the soup cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to thin it out if needed.
In conclusion, butternut squash soup is a delicious and versatile dish that can be made in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of fall and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re a fan of the classic recipe or want to experiment with different ingredients, this soup is sure to warm you up and satisfy your cravings. So go ahead and give it a try!
10 Best Butternut Squash Soup Recipe Slow Cooker
Amy’s Soup, Light in Sodium Butternut Squash Soup, Low Fat, Made With Organic Garlic and Olive Oil, Canned Soup, 14.1 Oz (12 Pack)
Features
| Part Number | 00169037 |
| Model | 042272005802 |
| Color | Natural |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2006-08-03T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 14.1 Ounce (Pack of 12) |
- Twelve 14.1-oz cans of Amy’s Organic Butternut Squash Soup, Light in Sodium with at least 50 percent less sodium than Amy's regular soup
- Warm and comforting butternut squash soup made with all organic vegetables, including butternut squash, onions, sea salt, garlic and spices for a delicious easy dinner or quick vegan meals without compromise
- This canned soup contains 3g of plant based protein and 4g of fiber per serving; Amy’s butternut squash soup is Non-GMO, USDA-Certified Organic, Dairy Free, Vegan and Certified Kosher for a high-quality plant based food everyone can enjoy
- Convenient and easy to prepare, heat Amy’s organic soup in a microwave safe bowl for 1 minute 30 seconds to 2 minutes or heat in a saucepan on the stove and stir occasionally for a healthy lunch or hearty ready made meals
- Since 1987, Amy's Kitchen produces delicious, convenient quick meals and vegetarian food for people who are sometimes too busy to cook
Rao's Homemade Butternut Squash Soup, No Preservatives, 16 Ounce (Pack of 6)
Features
| Release Date | 2023-10-04T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 16 Ounce (Pack of 6) |
- Rao's Homemade Butternut Squash Soup, No Preservatives, 16 Ounce (Pack of 6)
Amy's Organic Low Sodium Butternut Squash Soup 14.1 oz. (Pack of 12)
Features
| Size | 14.1 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) |
Generic Zoup Good Really Soup Butternut Squash 16 Oz Pack Of 6
Features
| Size | 2.67 Fl Oz (Pack of 6) |
Pacific Foods Organic Butternut Squash Soup, Plant Based Light Sodium Soup, 32 oz Carton (Case of 12)
Features
| Model | 4281 |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2023-09-18T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 32 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) |
- Twelve (12) 32 oz cartons of Pacific Foods Organic Butternut Squash Soup
- Butternut squash soup made with ginger, onion, garlic, cinnamon and nutmeg for a creamy vegetarian soup that's reminiscent of fall
- Dairy free kosher soup that's USDA-Certified Organic; simply pour, heat until hot, stir and enjoy
- Low fat soup is delicious on its own as a quick and easy vegan snack, customized with your favorite toppings or paired with a salad, sandwich or wrap
- This light in sodium soup (1) is great for creating flavorful sauces, as a base for your favorite side dish and in other plant based recipes. (1) 50% less sodium than our regular soup
FAQ
What is butternut squash soup?
Butternut squash soup is a thick and creamy soup made from butternut squash, a type of winter squash. It is typically cooked with onions, garlic, and other spices, and can be served hot or cold.
How do you make butternut squash soup?
To make butternut squash soup, you will need to peel, seed, and chop the butternut squash. Then, you can sauté onions and garlic in a large pot, add the butternut squash, vegetable broth, and seasonings, and simmer until the squash is tender. Finally, you can blend the soup until smooth and serve.
Conclusion
In conclusion, butternut squash soup is a popular and delicious dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. This article has provided answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about butternut squash soup, from its nutritional benefits to possible variations and cooking methods. Whether you are a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, butternut squash soup is a versatile and healthy option to add to your recipe repertoire. So go ahead, grab a squash and start cooking!
