With the crisp air of autumn settling in and leaves transforming into golden hues, there’s no denying that a bowl of hearty soup is just what we need. Picture this: the moment I opened my kitchen door, my senses were enveloped in the warm, inviting aroma of roasted butternut squash and sweet potatoes mingling with fragrant spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s a sensory journey that translates beautifully into the Creamy Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup I’m excited to share with you.
This cozy dish is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of fall flavors and comfort. Perfect for chilly evenings or as an elegant starter for your dinner gatherings, each spoonful delivers a velvety texture and a balance of natural sweetness that warms the soul. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or entertaining friends, this soup promises ease and satisfaction, making it a must-try in every home cook’s repertoire. Plus, with the option to easily make it dairy-free, it’s adaptable for everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this delicious experience together!
Why Love Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup?
Comforting, Cozy Warmth: This Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup is a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings.
Rich Flavor: The blend of sweet potatoes and butternut squash creates a deliciously smooth puree with aromatic spices that dance on your palate.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap ingredients or alter spices; this soup is adaptable to suit your personal taste and dietary needs.
Nourishing Goodness: Packed with vitamins and minerals, this dish provides wholesome comfort that leaves you feeling fulfilled.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch at the start of the week, and enjoy hearty bowls of happiness ready to warm you up on demand!
Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Base
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Sweet Onion – Provides a sweet base flavor; yellow onions work well if sweet onions aren’t available.
- Garlic Cloves – Enhances overall flavor; always opt for fresh garlic for the best taste.
- Butternut Squash – Forms the creamy base; ensure it’s peeled and cubed for a velvety texture. Frozen cubed squash offers a convenient alternative.
- Sweet Potatoes – Adds natural sweetness and creaminess; peel and cube them before cooking. Regular potatoes can be used in a pinch.
For the Broth
- Vegetable Stock – Adds depth of flavor; choose a quality low-sodium brand for the best results.
- Salt & Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; don’t hesitate to adjust to your taste.
For Natural Sweetness
- Honeycrisp Apple – Introduces a subtle sweetness; peel and cube this seasonal delight. Other sweet apple varieties can serve as great substitutes.
- Honey – Balances flavors with sweetness; maple syrup is a wonderful vegan alternative.
For the Spices
- Ground Cinnamon, Cloves, Nutmeg – Together they create a warm, aromatic profile; feel free to adjust based on your personal preference.
For the Creaminess
- Heavy Cream – Contributes to a rich and smooth texture; substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
For Garnishing
- Thyme – Adds freshness and herbal notes; sage can be a great alternative.
- Goat Cheese – Offers a tangy and creamy topping; consider omitting or using a dairy-free cheese for a vegan dish.
- Olive Oil – Optional for drizzling; adds extra richness and flavor.
These ingredients come together to create a cozy Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup that’s perfect for autumn!
How to Make Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup
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Melt Butter: In a large pot, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add chopped sweet onions and sauté until they turn translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add Vegetables: Toss in the peeled and cubed butternut squash and sweet potatoes. Pour in your vegetable stock, then season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the veggies are tender.
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Puree Mixture: Once the vegetables are tender, turn off the heat and add the cubed Honeycrisp apple. Using an immersion blender, puree the mixture until it’s silky smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer it in batches to a standard blender.
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Combine Spices and Cream: Stir in honey, ground cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and heavy cream. Gently heat over low for a few minutes while tasting and adjusting the seasoning as necessary.
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Serve and Garnish: Ladle the warm soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with crumbled goat cheese, a sprinkle of fresh thyme, and a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of flavor.
Optional: Drizzle with balsamic reduction for an added layer of richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to customize this cozy soup and create your own unique spin! Your kitchen is the perfect place for creativity to flourish.
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Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a light and creamy texture that’s completely dairy-free.
A coconut twist will add a subtle sweetness that complements the flavors beautifully. -
Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an exciting heat that brightens the soup.
Just a dash can transform the flavor and make each bowl a little more adventurous! -
Herbal Shift: Swap thyme for fresh sage or rosemary to introduce fresh herbal notes.
The earthy flavors will elevate your autumn experience and add an enticing aroma to your kitchen. -
Flavorful Boost: Consider adding a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.
This unique twist creates a robust flavor profile that delightfully surprises your taste buds. -
Nutty Touch: Stir in a spoonful of almond or cashew butter for a nutty richness that enhances creaminess.
A little goes a long way, giving your soup a delectable depth that’s hard to resist. -
Veggie Power: Toss in cooked carrots, parsnips, or roasted red peppers for added nutrition and variety.
Each additional vegetable will contribute its own flavor and texture, creating a heartier soup everyone will love. -
Sweet Surprise: Add diced pears or figs for a deliciously sweet contrast to the savory notes of the soup.
Their natural sweetness will create a beautiful balance that ties all the flavors together! -
Crispy Topping: Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or chickpeas for an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
This adds not just flavor, but also an enjoyable texture that makes each spoonful exciting!
How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup
Fridge: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, retaining its creamy texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup may expand during freezing.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge for best results. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of vegetable stock if necessary to maintain the desired consistency.
Batch Cooking: This is a perfect recipe for meal prep! Make a larger batch of Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup and enjoy hassle-free meals throughout the week.
What to Serve with Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup?
As the warmth of this creamy soup fills your kitchen, imagine the delightful aromas mingling with other comforting dishes that elevate your meal.
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Crusty Bread: This warm, hearty bread is perfect for dipping, enhancing the soup’s velvety texture with a satisfying crunch.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the soup’s warmth.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The crispy caramelization of Brussels sprouts pairs beautifully with the sweet soup, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
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Cheesy Garlic Bread: Indulge in the rich, gooey goodness of cheesy garlic bread—it’s an irresistible companion for scooping up every last drop of soup.
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Apple and Cheddar Tart: The sweet and savory notes in this tart harmonize with the soup’s flavors, creating a delightful fusion on your palate.
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Crispy Sage Leaves: Garnish your soup with crispy sage—this adds an earthy flavor that deepens the comforting experience, elevating every spoonful.
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Hot Apple Cider: Sipping on spiced apple cider brings a cozy, aromatic touch, perfect for complementing the seasonal spices in your soup.
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Pumpkin Spice Muffins: A sweet treat to round out your meal, these muffins echo the autumn flavors of the soup while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop and sauté the onions and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, the cubed butternut squash and sweet potatoes can be prepped and stored for up to 3 days before cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply combine the prepped ingredients with your vegetable stock and follow the remaining cooking steps to puree and season the soup. This way, you’ll have a delicious, comforting bowl of Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup in no time, perfect for those cozy evenings!
Expert Tips for Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup
• Roasting for Flavor: Roasting the butternut squash and sweet potatoes at 425°F for 25 minutes before adding them can enhance the soup’s sweetness and flavor.
• Blending Wisely: When using a standard blender, blend in batches and avoid overfilling to prevent messy splatters while pureeing the soup.
• Adjusting Texture: If the soup is too thick for your liking, simply add more vegetable stock to lighten it or a cornstarch slurry to thicken it if necessary.
• Storage Savvy: For the best freshness, store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months.
• Season to Taste: Always taste your soup before serving. You can adjust seasonings with more salt, pepper, or additional spices based on your personal preference to enhance the butternut squash sweet potato soup.
Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of butternut squash should I choose?
Absolutely! When selecting butternut squash, look for ones that are heavy for their size with smooth, firm skin. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes, as these can indicate spoilage. A good squash will have a deep, consistent color, and feel hard to the touch.
How can I store leftover Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup?
You can store your soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers to keep it fresh. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top since the soup may expand when frozen!
Can I freeze Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze your soup, allow it to cool completely first. Then, pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently on the stovetop. You might want to add a splash of vegetable stock to adjust the consistency upon reheating.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
Very! If you find your soup is thicker than you’d like, just stir in additional vegetable stock or water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can also whisk in more heavy cream or even coconut milk for a lovely flavor twist.
Are there any dietary considerations for this soup?
Yes! This Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup can easily be customized to be dairy-free by substituting heavy cream with coconut milk or nut milk. Additionally, if you need a gluten-free option, you can rest easy knowing this recipe is already gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free stock. Always check your labels for potential allergens!
Creamy Butternut Squash Sweet Potato Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add chopped sweet onions and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add peeled and cubed butternut squash and sweet potatoes. Pour in vegetable stock and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until veggies are tender.
- Turn off the heat and add cubed Honeycrisp apple. Using an immersion blender, puree until silky smooth.
- Stir in honey, ground cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and heavy cream. Heat over low for a few minutes, adjusting seasoning as necessary.
- Ladle soup into bowls, garnishing with crumbled goat cheese, fresh thyme, and a drizzle of olive oil.