Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a warm hug in a bowl, you’ve come to the right place! This Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is one of my favorite go-to recipes. It’s not just a soup; it’s a delightful blend of flavors that warms the heart and soul. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or hosting family gatherings, this creamy, flavorful soup fits perfectly into any occasion. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes!

What makes this recipe even more special is that it’s so easy to make—perfect for those who might be new to cooking or just short on time. You can whip it up quickly and enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a comforting meal in no time!
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of butternut squash and sweet potatoes creates a naturally creamy texture without the need for heavy dairy.
• Family-Friendly: This soup is perfect for all ages. It’s nutritious and packed with flavor that even picky eaters will enjoy!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer for those busy days.
• Versatile Ingredients: These simple ingredients are wholesome and easy to find, making it convenient to whip up whenever you’re craving something cozy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious soup! You probably already have many of these items in your pantry or fridge.

For the Soup Base

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some carrots or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, try adding more chilli flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Creamy Alternative: Substitute coconut milk with almond milk if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley at the end for an extra burst of freshness.

How to Make Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by peeling and chopping your butternut squash and sweet potatoes into small chunks. This helps them cook evenly. Don’t forget to slice your onion and peel the garlic cloves too! Having everything prepped makes the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat your olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it brings out the natural sweetness of the onions, laying a beautiful foundation for your soup’s flavor.

Step 3: Roast or Cook Your Veggies

If you decide to roast your butternut squash and sweet potatoes, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for about 20 minutes until tender. If you prefer cooking them straight away in the pot, add them along with garlic after sautéing the onions. Cook for another few minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Spices and Liquid

Once your veggies are ready, stir in ground cumin, cinnamon, chilli powder, and chilli flakes. This spices up your soup beautifully! Pour in the vegetable stock or water along with coconut milk. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 15 minutes until everything is soft.

Step 5: Blend It All Together

After simmering, remove from heat. Using an immersion blender or regular blender, blend until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, be careful as hot liquids can splatter! Taste your soup before serving—season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with reserved coconut milk on top for an extra touch of creaminess. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Now sit back, relax, and enjoy this heartwarming Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, but with a few simple tips, you can elevate it to an extraordinary level!

• Roast the Vegetables: Roasting your butternut squash and sweet potatoes before blending enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor. Simply toss them in olive oil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes before adding them to the pot.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Start with the recommended spices but feel free to adjust them according to your preference. A little extra cumin or a dash of nutmeg can make all the difference.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking. They bring brightness to the soup and complement the earthy flavors of the squash and sweet potato beautifully.

• Blend Until Smooth: For that creamy texture, ensure you blend thoroughly. If you love a bit of texture, leave some chunks, but for a super smooth finish, aim for a completely blended consistency.

• Make It Ahead of Time: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to five days or can be frozen for up to three months. Making it ahead allows the flavors to meld even more, making it taste even better when reheated!

How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Serving your delicious soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas that will add flair and flavor.

Garnishes

• Coconut Cream: A drizzle of reserved coconut milk on top not only adds creaminess but also creates an attractive swirl.
• Toasted Pumpkin Seeds: Sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the smooth soup beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: Freshly baked crusty bread is perfect for dipping into this creamy soup. The hearty texture contrasts wonderfully with the smoothness.
• Green Salad: A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal and balances out the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pairing with seasonal roasted vegetables enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile and makes for a satisfying meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with fresh herbs and veggies makes a wholesome side that rounds out your meal splendidly.

Enjoy each delightful spoonful of your Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup! Whether you keep it simple or dress it up with garnishes and sides, this comforting dish is sure to warm your heart any day of the week.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the soup to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also reheat in the microwave, using a microwave-safe container, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

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

Absolutely! This soup is ideal for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.

What variations can I try with Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup?

You can customize this soup by adding spices like nutmeg or curry powder. For extra creaminess, stir in more coconut milk or serve with a dollop of yogurt alternative on top.

How do I ensure my Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is creamy?

Using full fat coconut milk creates a rich, creamy texture. If you prefer another option, blended cashews or blended silken tofu could also work well!

Can I add other vegetables to my Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup?

Certainly! Feel free to add carrots, parsnips, or even kale for added nutrition and flavor. Just adjust cooking times as necessary for different vegetables.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a comforting meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to share your own twists on the recipe—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Happy cooking!