As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving warm, comforting meals. That’s where my Crock Pot Butternut Squash Soup Recipe comes in. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for those busy days when you need a quick solution. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you tackle your to-do list. This soup not only warms your soul but also impresses your loved ones with its rich flavors. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
- Effortless preparation—just dump and go!
- Rich, creamy texture thanks to coconut milk.
- Perfectly balanced flavors with a hint of sweetness from the apple.
- Healthy and nourishing, packed with vitamins.
- Great for meal prep; leftovers taste even better!
Crock Pot Butternut Squash Soup
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A delicious and easy recipe for butternut squash soup made in a crock pot, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 large green apple, peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, or 1/4 tsp. dried sage
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 14 ounces coconut milk
Instructions
- Prepare the butternut squash by peeling and dicing it.
- In the crock pot, combine the diced butternut squash, shredded carrots, chicken stock, diced onion, chopped apple, minced garlic, sage, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir the ingredients together until well mixed.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the squash is tender.
- Once cooked, add the coconut milk and blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- This soup can be made vegan by using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
- For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a drizzle of coconut milk before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for Crock Pot Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Crock Pot Butternut Squash Soup Recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Butternut Squash: The star of the show! Its natural sweetness and creamy texture make the soup delightful.
- Shredded Carrots: These add a pop of color and a subtle sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Chicken Stock: This forms the base of the soup. For a vegan option, swap it with vegetable stock.
- Onion: Diced onion brings depth and a savory note to the soup.
- Green Apple: A surprising twist! It adds a hint of tartness that balances the sweetness of the squash.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the soup with aromatic goodness, making it irresistible.
- Sage: Fresh sage is ideal for a fragrant touch, but dried sage works just as well.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these enhance all the flavors in the soup.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Just a pinch adds a gentle kick, elevating the soup’s flavor profile.
- Coconut Milk: This creamy addition makes the soup rich and velvety, perfect for a comforting meal.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! You can add spices like nutmeg or even toss in some kale for extra nutrition. The beauty of this slow cooker butternut squash soup is its versatility!
How to Make Crock Pot Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash
First things first, let’s tackle that butternut squash! Start by carefully peeling it with a sharp vegetable peeler. Make sure to hold it steady on a cutting board to avoid slips. Once peeled, cut off both ends and slice it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon, then dice the squash into bite-sized cubes. This step is crucial for even cooking. Trust me, the aroma of fresh squash will have your kitchen smelling divine!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Now, it’s time to layer everything in the crock pot. Begin by adding the diced butternut squash, followed by the shredded carrots, diced onion, and chopped green apple. Sprinkle in the minced garlic, fresh sage, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Pour in the chicken stock, or vegetable stock for a vegan twist. Give everything a gentle stir to combine. This dump-and-go squash soup crock pot method makes it so easy—just toss it all in and let the magic happen!
Step 3: Cook the Soup
Cover your crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The key is to let the squash become tender. If you’re unsure, poke a piece with a fork; it should slide in easily. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich, comforting soup. You can go about your day while the crock pot does all the work—what a relief for busy moms!
Step 4: Blend and Serve
Once the cooking time is up, it’s blending time! Carefully add the coconut milk to the crock pot. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. If you don’t have one, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Just be cautious with the hot liquid! Serve warm, and for a lovely touch, drizzle a bit of coconut milk on top or garnish with fresh herbs. Enjoy this delightful coconut milk butternut squash soup with your favorite crusty bread!
Tips for Success
- Always taste as you go! Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- For a smoother texture, blend longer until creamy.
- Prep ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.
- Store leftovers in individual portions for easy reheating.
- Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist!
Equipment Needed
- Crock Pot: A slow cooker is essential for this recipe. If you don’t have one, a heavy pot on low heat can work too.
- Vegetable Peeler: For peeling the butternut squash. A sharp knife can also do the job.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for chopping ingredients.
- Immersion Blender: Perfect for blending the soup. A regular blender works too, just be careful with hot liquids.
Variations To Try
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor profile.
- Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter for a nutty richness.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in some chopped kale or spinach for added nutrition and color.
- Sweet Potato Swap: Replace half of the butternut squash with sweet potatoes for a sweeter taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair the soup with crusty bread or warm rolls for a satisfying meal.
- Serve with a light salad topped with nuts and vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- For drinks, consider a crisp white wine or a warm spiced apple cider.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a swirl of coconut milk for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs about Crock Pot Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Just swap the chicken stock for vegetable stock, and you’ll have a delicious vegan gluten-free crock pot squash soup that everyone will love.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can keep the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! This slow cooker butternut squash soup freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
What can I serve with butternut squash soup?
Pair it with crusty bread, a light salad, or even grilled cheese for a comforting meal. A drizzle of coconut milk on top adds a lovely touch!
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some chopped carrots, celery, or even sweet potatoes for added flavor and nutrition. The butternut squash apple soup slow cooker is versatile, so get creative!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Crock Pot Butternut Squash Soup Recipe is more than just making a meal; it’s about creating a moment of warmth and comfort in your busy life. The rich flavors and creamy texture bring joy to the table, making it a favorite for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can focus on what truly matters—spending time with loved ones. So, grab your ingredients, set that slow cooker, and let the delightful aroma fill your home. You’ll be savoring every spoonful and creating cherished memories in no time!