Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is just what you need. This recipe has been a favorite in my kitchen for years! It’s creamy, vibrant, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting family gathering. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes. What more could you ask for?

The magic of this soup lies in its simplicity. You can whip it up quickly while enjoying the delightful aromas filling your home. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe invites everyone to join in the fun of making something truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Just 30 minutes from start to finish means you can have dinner ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and sweet flavor, even picky eaters will love it!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup keeps well in the fridge or freezer, so you can enjoy it anytime.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with nutrients from vegetables, it’s a wholesome option for any meal.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: The spices add warmth and depth without overwhelming the palate, making it suitable for everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that make this soup shine! Most of these items are likely already in your pantry or easily found at your local store.

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

Variations

One of the things I love about this soup is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

• Add some greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale at the end for added nutrition.
• Spice it up: Increase the chilli flakes if you like a bit more heat!
• Creamy alternative: Swap coconut milk for cashew cream if you prefer a nut-based option.
• Herb-infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking for an aromatic touch.

How to Make Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Sautéing the onions brings out their natural sweetness, which adds a wonderful base flavor to your soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Once the onions are ready, toss in the peeled garlic cloves along with cumin, cinnamon, chilli powder, and chilli flakes. Stir everything together for about a minute until fragrant. This step is crucial because blooming spices helps release their essential oils, amplifying their flavors throughout your soup.

Step 3: Incorporate Vegetables

Next up, add your chopped butternut squash and sweet potatoes into the pot. Stir everything together so that the veggies are coated with those delicious spices. This will help them absorb all those flavors as they cook!

Step 4: Pour in Stock

Now it’s time to pour in your vegetable stock (or water). Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to low. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender. This simmering step allows all those delightful flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Blend Until Smooth

Once your veggies are soft, remove the pot from heat. Carefully blend the mixture using an immersion blender until it’s smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer batches to a regular blender instead (just be cautious with hot liquids!). Blending is key here as it gives your soup that luscious texture we all love!

Step 6: Finish with Coconut Milk

Stir in your reserved coconut milk for extra creaminess right before serving. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed! A final swirl of coconut milk on top makes each bowl look inviting.

Enjoy this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup warm with crusty bread or on its own—either way, it’s sure to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Creating a perfect butternut squash and sweet potato soup is easier than you think! Here are some tips to help you achieve a deliciously creamy and flavorful bowl every time.

• Roast for extra flavor: Roasting your butternut squash and sweet potatoes before adding them to the pot enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the soup. A little caramelization goes a long way!

• Adjust spices to taste: The spices in this recipe can be tailored to your preferences. If you love heat, feel free to increase the chili powder or flakes for a spicier kick. Don’t hesitate to experiment!

• Blend until smooth: For that velvety texture, ensure you blend the soup thoroughly. Using an immersion blender or a high-speed blender will help create a silky consistency that makes this soup irresistible.

• Make it ahead of time: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or save some for a chilly day ahead!

• Don’t skip the coconut milk: The creaminess of coconut milk not only enhances the flavor but also adds richness without dairy. It’s what makes this soup comforting and soul-warming.

How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Serving your butternut squash and sweet potato soup can take it from simply delicious to visually appealing! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top of your soup for a burst of color and freshness.
• Toasted seeds: Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.
• Drizzle of coconut cream: Reserve a bit of coconut milk to drizzle over the top just before serving for an elegant finishing touch.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread pairs perfectly with this soup, allowing you to soak up every last drop of flavor.
• Green salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots make for complementary side dishes, enhancing the overall autumnal vibe.
• Quinoa salad: A chilled quinoa salad mixed with herbs, chickpeas, and lemon dressing provides protein and texture, making your meal more hearty.

With these tips in mind, you’re ready to enjoy a bowl of Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup that’s not only delicious but also beautifully presented! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! It can be made ahead, stored, and enjoyed throughout the week, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual portions; just heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious soup:

Can I make this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan since it uses coconut milk instead of dairy products.

How long does Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I substitute ingredients in this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out sweet potatoes with other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips. Just keep an eye on cooking times!

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a cozy meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup! It’s not only simple but also packed with flavors that warm your heart. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on this recipe. Happy cooking!