Introduction to Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup to wrap you in comfort. I know how hectic life can get, especially for us busy women juggling family, work, and everything in between. This recipe is a lifesaver! It’s not just easy to make; it’s a delightful way to impress your loved ones with minimal effort. Imagine coming home to the rich aroma of savory sausage and sweet butternut squash, all simmered to perfection while you went about your day. Sounds dreamy, right?
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup
This Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup is a game-changer for busy days! It’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to toss everything into the slow cooker and go about your day. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting dish that warms your soul. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for you and your family. Who wouldn’t love a meal that’s both delicious and effortless?
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup, you’ll need a mix of fresh produce and savory seasonings that come together to create a warm, hearty dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Extra virgin olive oil: This is your base for sautéing. It adds a rich flavor and healthy fats to the soup.
- Large onion: Chopped onion brings sweetness and depth to the dish. It’s the aromatic foundation that makes everything taste better!
- Garlic cloves: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor. It’s like a little burst of sunshine in every bite.
- Ground Italian sausage: Choose between mild or spicy, depending on your family’s taste. This is the star protein that gives the soup its heartiness.
- Butternut squash: Peeled and diced, this sweet squash is the main ingredient. It adds a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness that balances the savory sausage.
- Carrots: Chopped carrots add color and a slight sweetness. They’re also a great source of vitamins!
- Celery: Chopped celery contributes a nice crunch and a fresh flavor that brightens the soup.
- Vegetable or chicken broth: This is the liquid gold that brings everything together. It adds depth and richness to the soup.
- Dried thyme: A classic herb that complements the squash and sausage beautifully. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds.
- Dried basil: This herb adds a hint of sweetness and a lovely aroma, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Sea salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors. Adjust to your taste, but remember, you can always add more!
- Freshly ground black pepper: A dash of pepper adds a subtle kick. It’s the finishing touch that elevates the dish.
- Chopped spinach (optional): If you want to sneak in some greens, this is a great addition! It adds nutrition and a pop of color.
- Balsamic vinegar (optional): A splash of balsamic vinegar at the end adds a tangy depth that brightens the flavors. It’s like a secret ingredient that takes the soup to the next level!
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the heart of the matter: making this delicious Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup. I promise, it’s as easy as pie—well, easier, actually! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal waiting for you at the end of the day.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
First things first, let’s get those flavors going! Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the chopped onion. Sauté it for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This is where the magic begins! The aroma of the onion will fill your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy restaurant.
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. You want it fragrant but not burnt—nobody likes bitter garlic! This step is crucial because it builds the flavor base for your soup.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Now, let’s bring in the star of the show: the ground Italian sausage! Add it to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s nicely browned. You want to see those little bits of sausage getting crispy and golden. If there’s any excess fat, feel free to drain it off. This step adds a hearty richness to your Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup that’s simply irresistible!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Once your sausage is browned, it’s time to transfer everything to the slow cooker. Pour in the sautéed onion and garlic mixture along with the sausage. Then, add the diced butternut squash, chopped carrots, and celery. It’s like a colorful autumn harvest in your slow cooker!
Next, pour in 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried basil, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Give everything a good stir to ensure all those flavors mingle together. It’s like a little party in there!
Step 4: Set and Forget
Now comes the best part: set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This is the “set it and forget it” moment! You can go about your day, knowing that a delicious meal is simmering away. Just imagine coming home to that warm, inviting aroma wafting through your house. It’s pure bliss!
Step 5: Final Touches
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the chopped spinach and balsamic vinegar if you’re using them. The spinach adds a lovely pop of color and nutrition, while the balsamic vinegar brightens the flavors beautifully. Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference!
And there you have it! Your Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup is ready to be enjoyed. Ladle it into bowls, and watch your family’s faces light up with delight. It’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly autumn evenings!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.
- Use a sturdy vegetable peeler for easy butternut squash peeling.
- Don’t skip the sautéing step; it enhances the flavors significantly!
- Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your family’s taste preferences.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days—perfect for quick lunches!
Equipment Needed
- Slow Cooker: A must-have for this recipe. If you don’t have one, a heavy pot can work on low heat.
- Large Skillet: For sautéing the aromatics and browning the sausage. A non-stick skillet makes cleanup easier!
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring and breaking up the sausage.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping your veggies efficiently.
Variations
- Swap the Sausage: Try using turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. You can also go meatless by using plant-based sausage or omitting it altogether!
- Add More Veggies: Sneak in other vegetables like sweet potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spice it Up: If you love heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give your soup a kick!
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish to new heights!
- Make it Creamy: For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or sourdough for dipping. It’s the perfect companion!
- Salad: Pair with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Wine: A glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors beautifully.
- Garnish: Top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for a touch of elegance.
FAQs about Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup
1. Can I use frozen butternut squash in this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen butternut squash is a great time-saver. Just toss it in the slow cooker without thawing, and it will cook beautifully alongside the other ingredients. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may be slightly shorter, so check for tenderness a bit earlier.
2. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup, simply omit the sausage and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add more beans or lentils for protein, or even some hearty mushrooms for a meaty texture!
3. Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes! You can prep all your ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, just throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do its thing. It’s a fantastic way to have a warm meal waiting for you after a long day!
4. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
5. What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. And don’t forget a glass of white wine to elevate your dining experience!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about a bowl of Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace after a long day. The way the flavors meld together creates a comforting harmony that feels like home. Plus, knowing you’ve prepared something wholesome and delicious with minimal effort is a win in my book! So, gather your loved ones, ladle out those hearty servings, and enjoy the smiles that come with each bite. This soup is sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen, bringing joy and warmth to your table!
Print
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup delights with autumn flavors!
Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup delights with autumn flavors!
- Total Time: 6 to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (choose between mild or spicy)
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and diced (approximately 4 cups)
- 3 medium-sized carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
- 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup chopped spinach (optional)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take around 5 minutes. Incorporate the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Introduce the ground Italian sausage to the skillet, using a wooden spoon to break it into smaller pieces. Cook until the sausage is thoroughly browned, about 5 to 7 minutes, and drain any excess fat if needed.
- Pour the sausage mixture into a slow cooker. Add the diced butternut squash, chopped carrots, and celery. Pour in the broth and sprinkle in the thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure even distribution.
- Set the slow cooker to low and let it simmer for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- If desired, stir in the chopped spinach and balsamic vinegar during the final 30 minutes of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
- Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as necessary to suit your palate.
Notes
- Serves 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg