Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy and hearty dish that warms the soul, you’ve found it! This Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. The creamy texture, combined with the natural sweetness of the squash and sweet potatoes, makes it a favorite in our home. Plus, it’s quick to whip up—perfect for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests drop by.

What makes this soup so special is its versatility. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a family gathering, its comforting flavors are sure to please everyone. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the creamy texture and warm flavors.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: It stores well in the fridge or freezer for easy meals later.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, healthy ingredients that you can feel good about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delicious soup! You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store.

For the Soup Base

• 1 small butternut squash (about 700-900g or 2-3 cups) (peeled and chopped)
• 2 sweet potatoes (about 275g or 2 cups) (peeled and chopped)
• 1 yellow onion (sliced)
• 3 cloves garlic (peeled)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 400 ml tin full-fat coconut milk (reserve 2 tablespoons for serving)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• 750 ml vegetable or chicken stock or water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this soup is how flexible it can be. Feel free to switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences!

• Add greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for extra nutrients.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more chili flakes or even a dash of hot sauce.
• Herb infusion: Stir in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
• Creamy alternative: For a lighter version, substitute coconut milk with almond milk.

How to Make Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Start by peeling and chopping your butternut squash and sweet potatoes. This step is crucial because it helps them cook evenly. If you’re feeling adventurous, roasting them beforehand can enhance their flavors even more!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until translucent. This brings out their sweetness, which adds depth to your soup. Then toss in the garlic cloves for that irresistible aroma!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Next, add your chopped squash and sweet potatoes to the pot along with cumin, cinnamon, chili powder, and chili flakes. Stir everything together so that the spices coat the vegetables nicely. This step builds layers of flavor that make each spoonful delicious!

Step 4: Add Liquid

Pour in the vegetable stock or water. Bring everything to a boil before reducing to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook until the vegetables are tender—about 15 minutes should do it!

Step 5: Blend It Up

Once your veggies are soft, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer batches into a blender. Blending gives your soup that creamy texture we all love!

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in your reserved coconut milk for extra creaminess. Taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with a drizzle of coconut milk on top if desired!

Enjoy every comforting spoonful of your Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup! It’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen too!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure you get the best flavor and texture!

• Roast for Rich Flavor: Roasting your butternut squash and sweet potatoes can enhance their natural sweetness and add depth to the soup. Baking them brings out caramelized notes that make the soup extra delicious.
• Blend Smoothly: For a velvety texture, use an immersion blender or a high-speed blender. Blending will help incorporate all ingredients seamlessly, creating a creamy consistency that’s really satisfying.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Spices can vary in strength, so add cumin, cinnamon, and chili powder gradually. This way, you can tailor the flavors to your liking and get the perfect blend of warmth and spice.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro as a final touch before serving. They add brightness and freshness that beautifully contrast with the creamy soup.
• Store for Later: This soup is freezer-friendly! Portion it into containers for easy meal prep. It keeps well in the freezer for up to three months—perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner option.

How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Serving this delightful soup is all about presentation and complementing flavors. Here are some ideas to make your dish even more inviting!

Garnishes

• Pumpkin seeds: Toasted pumpkin seeds add a nice crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy base.
• Coconut cream drizzle: A small swirl of reserved coconut milk on top adds richness and makes for an appealing visual.
• Fresh herbs: Chopped fresh parsley or chives sprinkled on top not only looks lovely but also adds a fresh element to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into this rich soup; it adds an enjoyable texture contrast and makes for a hearty meal.
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the soup.
• Quinoa pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs can be a nutritious side that complements the soup while providing additional protein.
• Roasted vegetables: Pairing it with seasonal roasted vegetables enhances your meal visually and adds another layer of flavor without overwhelming the palate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create a comforting yet elegant dining experience sure to impress anyone at your table! Enjoy making this delightful Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or even freeze portions for later. Here’s how to make sure your soup stays fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If you plan to eat it within a few days, keep it in a single container; otherwise, consider portioning it out.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the containers, as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Label each container with the date and type of soup.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste and quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave’s defrost setting.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If reheating from frozen, you may need to add a splash of vegetable stock or water to help loosen the consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this soup.

Can I make Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup without roasting the vegetables?

Absolutely! While roasting enhances the flavor, you can skip this step. Just sauté your onions and garlic in olive oil before adding the chopped squash and sweet potatoes directly into your pot with stock.

How can I adjust the spice level in my Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup?

You can easily modify the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili powder and chili flakes. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat, then taste and add more as needed!

What can I serve with Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For added protein, consider serving it alongside chickpea salad or roasted lentils.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup! It’s not only simple but also packed with comforting flavors that warm both body and soul. Enjoy preparing this delightful dish, whether it’s for a cozy dinner or meal prep for busy days ahead. Happy cooking!