Butternut Squash Soup

Cozy Up with This Creamy Crockpot Butternut Squash Soup

As the leaves start to turn and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like warming up with a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup. This recipe isn’t just a feast for your taste buds—it’s also a breeze to make thanks to the trusty instantpot. Let’s dive into how to create this comforting bowl of autumn goodness, which is perfect for cozy evenings or as a festive holiday starter.

Ps. it also makes for a yummy meal prep 😉

Health Benefits in Every Bite

Certainly! Butternut squash soup isn’t just delicious—it's a powerhouse of nutrients that can boost your health in several ways. Rich in vitamins A and C, butternut squash helps strengthen your immune system and maintain healthy skin and eyesight. The fiber content promotes digestive health and can aid in weight management by keeping you full longer. This soup is also heart-friendly, thanks to its high potassium content which helps regulate blood pressure. Additionally, the inclusion of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg adds antioxidants that reduce inflammation and improve overall health. With a base of low-sodium broth and a creamy texture from coconut milk, this soup is both comforting and beneficial, making it a perfect addition to any health-conscious diet.

Here's what you'll need:

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)

• 2 medium butternut squash (about 6 pounds total), peeled and cubed

• 2 medium apples, cored and diced (no need to peel)

• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or white pepper for a milder taste without black specks)

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• ¾ to 1 1/2 cups light coconut milk (adjust to your creaminess preference)

Optional toppings:

While many recipes suggest pumpkin seeds and sage, I’ve taken a slightly different route. I roasted the seeds from the butternut squash for a delightful crunch and added fresh parsley from the garden for a burst of color and freshness. These toppings not only add texture and flavor but also make the most of the ingredients, minimizing waste.

Click here to learn how to make the most of your Butternut Squash seeds

How to make this delishhh soup:

• 1. Prepare the Base: Start by sautéing the chopped onion in olive oil until it’s soft and fragrant. This can be done right in a saucepan over medium heat. Once done, transfer the onions to your crockpot.

• 2. Combine the Ingredients: To your crockpot, add the peeled and cubed butternut squash and diced apples along with the broth, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. The blend of spices brings a warm, inviting complexity to the soup, while the apple adds a natural sweetness that complements the squash perfectly.

• 3. Slow Cook: Cover and set your crockpot on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the squash and apples to become perfectly tender.

• 4. Blend It Up: Once everything is tender, stir in ¾ cup of coconut milk and then puree the soup using an immersion blender right in the pot. If you prefer, you can also carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender. Just be cautious as hot soup can splatter!

• 5. Adjust Consistency and Seasonings: If you prefer a thinner soup, add more coconut milk to achieve your desired consistency. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Sometimes, depending on the size of your squash, you may find you want to double up on the spices—just maybe not the cayenne unless you’re after a real kick!

• 6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the soup hot, garnished with your favorite toppings.

This butternut squash soup is more than just a meal; it’s comfort in a bowl. Whether you’re setting down to a quiet dinner at home or sharing it with friends and family during the holidays, this soup is sure to warm hearts and lift spirits. Enjoy the creamy goodness and the satisfying process of creating something delicious and wholesome for your table.

Want more of my favorite recipe's??

Check out my Self Nourishing Cookbook

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