Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish to warm your soul, look no further than this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your home with delightful aromas and invites everyone to gather around the table. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this soup is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients.

I love how this soup strikes the perfect balance between creamy and flavorful, making it a hit for both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up even on those hectic days when you feel like there’s no time to cook. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can have this delicious soup ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for when time is tight!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the creamy texture and natural sweetness from the butternut squash and sweet potatoes.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup freezes beautifully, making it easy to enjoy later or meal prep for the week.
• Flavorful Goodness: The combination of spices adds warmth and depth, ensuring every spoonful is a delight.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, nutritious ingredients that you can feel good about serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that make this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup both delicious and nourishing. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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 chilli powder
• 1 teaspoon chilli flakes
• 750 ml vegetable or chicken stock or water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add greens: Toss in some chopped kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more chilli flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to kick things up a notch.
• Creamy alternative: Swap out coconut milk for cashew cream if you’re looking for a different creamy texture.
• Herb infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before serving for an aromatic touch.

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 into roughly equal-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly. If you want extra flavor, consider roasting them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes until they’re slightly caramelized before adding them to your pot.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until translucent—about 5 minutes. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the onion, creating a beautiful base for your soup.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

Next, toss in the garlic cloves along with cumin, cinnamon, chilli powder, and chilli flakes. Stir everything together for about a minute until fragrant. This step allows the spices to bloom, enhancing their flavors and making your kitchen smell divine!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to add your chopped butternut squash, sweet potatoes, and stock or water into the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Blend Until Smooth

Once cooked, remove from heat. Using an immersion blender (or transferring in batches to a regular blender), blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just half of it! Stir in the coconut milk at this stage for that creamy goodness.

Step 6: Season & Serve

Taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle it into bowls and drizzle with reserved coconut milk if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread or croutons on the side—it’s sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, but a few extra tips can take your dish to the next level!

• Roast the Vegetables: Roasting your butternut squash and sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness and adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Just toss them in olive oil, season lightly, and roast until caramelized!

• Adjust the Spices: Everyone’s taste buds are different! Don’t hesitate to tweak the spices according to your preference. If you love heat, add more chili powder or flakes; if you prefer milder flavors, reduce them.

• Blend for Creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, use an immersion blender or a high-speed blender. This step gives your soup that luscious consistency that makes it so comforting.

• Store for Later: This soup freezes beautifully. Portion out leftovers in airtight containers for quick meals on busy days—perfect for when those cravings hit!

• Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving brightens the soup and adds an aromatic touch that enhances its overall flavor.

How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Serving this delightful soup is as much about presentation as it is about taste! Here are some ideas to make your dish visually appealing and delicious.

Garnishes

• Coconut Cream: A drizzle of reserved coconut milk adds a rich creaminess on top.
• Pumpkin Seeds: Toasted pumpkin seeds provide a nice crunch and a nutty flavor contrast.
• Chili Oil: A few drops of chili oil not only look stunning but also add an extra kick!

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: Thick slices of crusty bread are perfect for dipping into your creamy soup—think sourdough or whole grain!
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Veggies: Seasoned roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts complement the flavors of the soup while adding additional nutrients.
• Rice Cakes with Avocado: Lightly salted rice cakes topped with smashed avocado create a delightful crunchy side that pairs well with the smooth texture of the soup.

Now you’re all set to enjoy your Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup! Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or prepping meals for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every warm spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to help maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Label the containers with the date for easy tracking.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, transfer to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring between intervals.
• Add a splash of water or coconut milk if the soup is too thick after freezing.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious soup!

Can I use different spices in my Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even curry powder for a unique flavor twist. Adjust according to your taste preferences.

How can I make my Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup creamier?

To enhance creaminess, you can blend the soup longer or add more coconut milk. A splash of plant-based cream or cashew cream also works wonders!

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Yes! This Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup freezes well. Just remember to store it properly in airtight containers.

What can I serve with my butternut squash and sweet potato soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables. Enjoy it as a cozy meal on its own or as part of a larger spread!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup as much as I do! It’s not only comforting but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether it’s a chilly day or just a busy weeknight, this soup is sure to bring warmth to your table. Give it a try, and feel free to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!