Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, then this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is just what you need. It’s the kind of recipe that brings comfort on chilly evenings and is simple enough to whip up on busy weeknights. I love how creamy and flavorful this soup is, making it a family favorite at our dinner table.

Not only does this soup taste incredible, but it also fills your kitchen with the most inviting aromas. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or just treating yourself to a nourishing meal, this soup fits perfectly into any occasion. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option for meal prep!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for those last-minute dinner plans!
• Nutritious ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from the squash and sweet potatoes, it’s a healthy choice.
• Kid-friendly flavors: The natural sweetness of the vegetables makes it appealing to kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can easily prepare this soup in advance and store it for busy days.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious soup!

For the Soup

• 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 stock or water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add some greens: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra nutritional boost.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more chili flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Creamy alternative: Swap coconut milk for cashew cream if you’re looking for a nutty flavor.
• Herb infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary at the end of cooking for added fragrance.

How to Make Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Begin by peeling and chopping your butternut squash and sweet potatoes into uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly. If you choose to roast them first, toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes until golden brown. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup. Don’t forget to add minced garlic in the last minute so it doesn’t burn—garlic brings such an incredible aroma!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your onions are ready, add the chopped butternut squash and sweet potatoes to the pot along with the spices: cumin, cinnamon, chili powder, and chili flakes. Stir everything together so that the spices coat the vegetables nicely.

Step 4: Add Liquid

Pour in the vegetable stock (or water) until everything is covered. Bring it all to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together as your vegetables become tender.

Step 5: Blend Until Smooth

Once your veggies are soft, remove the pot from heat and carefully blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth. Alternatively, transfer batches to a countertop blender if you don’t have an immersion one—just be cautious with hot liquids!

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in the full-fat coconut milk until well combined; this adds creaminess! Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with a drizzle of reserved coconut milk on top for an extra touch of delight.

Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Making soup is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some tips to ensure your butternut squash and sweet potato soup shines with every spoonful!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh butternut squash and sweet potatoes will enhance the flavor and texture of your soup. Fresh produce has a natural sweetness that elevates the dish, making it taste more vibrant.

• Roast for Extra Flavor: If you have extra time, consider roasting the vegetables before adding them to the pot. This caramelization brings out deeper, richer flavors that make the soup even more delicious.

• Adjust Spices to Your Taste: The spices in this recipe can be tweaked according to your preference. Feel free to add more or less cumin, cinnamon, or chili powder depending on how spicy or warm you like your soup.

• Blend Until Smooth: For a creamy consistency, blend the soup thoroughly until smooth. You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer it in batches to a traditional blender for a velvety finish.

• Make It Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to five days or can be frozen for later use. Making extra servings means you’ll always have a quick and healthy meal on hand!

How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Serving this soup is just as fun as making it! Its rich color and velvety texture make it a beautiful centerpiece for any table. Here are some delightful ways to present it:

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and brightness to each bowl.
• Toasted Pumpkin Seeds: These add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Drizzle of Coconut Milk: A swirl of reserved coconut milk not only enhances the creaminess but also makes for an appealing presentation.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, providing a comforting and hearty accompaniment.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, adding freshness and crunch to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pairing with seasonal roasted vegetables enhances the wholesome feel of your meal while bringing more flavors to enjoy.
• Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad packed with veggies provides protein and fiber, making your meal satisfying and nutritious without overshadowing the star of the show.

Enjoy serving this comforting dish at gatherings or as a cozy night-in treat; it’s sure to warm hearts as well as bellies!

Make Ahead and Storage

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

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• To keep it fresh, label the container with the date.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool entirely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through until hot.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some answers to help you enjoy your Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup!

Can I substitute sweet potatoes with other vegetables in this soup?

Yes! While sweet potatoes add a lovely sweetness, you can experiment with other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for different flavors.

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

If you’re looking for extra creaminess, consider adding more coconut milk or using an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth!

Is this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. Just follow the freezing instructions above for storing it properly.

What toppings go well with this soup?

Some great options include toasted pumpkin seeds, a drizzle of coconut milk, or fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup as much as I do! It’s not only simple but also packed with comforting flavors that warm you up on chilly days. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this delightful soup is sure to please. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings and enjoy every spoonful. Happy cooking!