Butternut Squash Sausage Soup: The Ultimate Fall Comfort Food

Butternut Squash Sausage Soup: the name alone conjures images of cozy autumn evenings, doesn’t it? Imagine a bowl brimming with creamy butternut squash, savory sausage, and a medley of comforting spices, all melding together in a symphony of flavor. This isn’t just soup; it’s a hug in a bowl, a culinary masterpiece that will warm you from the inside out.

Butternut squash, a staple of fall harvests, has been enjoyed for centuries, with its origins tracing back to Central and South America. Indigenous populations cultivated this versatile squash, recognizing its nutritional value and delicious flavor. Over time, it made its way into kitchens worldwide, becoming a beloved ingredient in countless dishes. The addition of sausage elevates this soup to a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for chilly days.

People adore Butternut Squash Sausage Soup for its delightful combination of sweet and savory notes. The sweetness of the butternut squash perfectly complements the richness of the sausage, creating a balanced and irresistible flavor profile. The creamy texture is incredibly comforting, while the added vegetables provide a satisfying bite. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to make! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results every time. Get ready to experience the magic of this autumnal delight!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 large butternut squash (about 2-2.5 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot, or a mix), removed from casings
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Crusty bread, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Butternut Squash and Sausage

1. Roasting the Butternut Squash (Optional, but Recommended): While you *can* add the butternut squash directly to the soup, roasting it first brings out a much richer, sweeter flavor. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. This step is optional, but I highly recommend it for the best flavor! If you skip roasting, just add the raw squash to the soup as instructed later.
2. Browning the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to crumble the sausage well so you don’t have large clumps in your soup.
3. Removing Excess Grease: Once the sausage is browned, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the pot and set it aside in a bowl. Leave any rendered fat in the pot – this will add flavor to the vegetables. If there’s an excessive amount of grease (more than a couple of tablespoons), you can drain some off, but don’t get rid of all of it!

Building the Soup Base

1. Sautéing the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the sausage fat. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. This is where the flavor of the soup really starts to develop, so don’t rush this step. You want the onions to be translucent and the carrots and celery to be slightly tender.
2. Adding the Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried sage, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The spices will bloom in the heat, releasing their aromas and adding depth to the soup.
3. Deglazing the Pot (Important for Flavor!): Pour in about 1/2 cup of the chicken broth and use a spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These browned bits are called fond, and they are packed with flavor. Deglazing the pot ensures that all that delicious flavor gets incorporated into the soup.

Simmering the Soup

1. Adding the Remaining Ingredients: Add the remaining chicken broth, the roasted butternut squash (or raw, if you skipped roasting), and the cooked sausage back to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
2. Simmering the Soup: Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the butternut squash is very tender. If you used raw butternut squash, it may take a bit longer to cook through. You should be able to easily pierce the squash with a fork.

Finishing the Soup

1. Pureeing the Soup (Optional, but Recommended for a Creamy Texture): This step is optional, but it will give your soup a wonderfully creamy texture. You can use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Be very careful when blending hot liquids, as they can splatter. Make sure to vent the blender lid to allow steam to escape. Blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step or only partially puree it.
2. Adding the Cream and Parmesan (Optional): Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and Parmesan cheese (if using). Heat through gently, but do not boil. The cream will add richness and the Parmesan will add a salty, savory note. If you’re using coconut milk, be sure to use full-fat coconut milk for the best flavor and texture.
3. Seasoning to Taste: Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that the sausage and chicken broth may already contain salt, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Serving the Soup

1. Garnishing and Serving: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping, if desired. A dollop of sour cream or a swirl of pesto would also be delicious additions.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: If you like a spicier soup, add more red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.
• Add greens: Stir in some chopped kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and flavor.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add a can of drained and rinsed white beans for added protein.
• Use different squash: You can substitute other types of squash, such as acorn squash or kabocha squash, for the butternut squash.
• Make it ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually meld together and improve over time.
• Freeze it: This soup also freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Butternut Squash Sausage Soup!

Conclusion:

This Butternut Squash Sausage Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. The sweetness of the butternut squash perfectly complements the savory sausage, creating a balanced and utterly satisfying meal. The creamy texture, punctuated by the hearty sausage and optional additions, makes it a truly unforgettable culinary experience. I truly believe this soup deserves a spot in your regular recipe rotation.

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s incredibly easy to make, packed with nutrients, and bursting with flavor. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner solution, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum impact. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily adapt it to your dietary needs and preferences.

Looking for serving suggestions? I love to serve this soup with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping. A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds adds a delightful crunch and enhances the butternut squash flavor. For a richer experience, swirl in a dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream just before serving. A side salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the soup’s richness.

And speaking of variations, the possibilities are endless! If you’re a vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and add a can of cannellini beans for protein. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You could also experiment with different types of sausage, such as Italian sausage or chorizo, to create a unique flavor profile. Roasting the butternut squash before adding it to the soup intensifies its sweetness and adds a depth of flavor that is simply divine. Consider adding other vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach for added nutrients and texture. A touch of maple syrup can also enhance the natural sweetness of the butternut squash.

Serving Suggestions:

• Crusty bread for dipping
• Toasted pumpkin seeds
• Crème fraîche or sour cream
• Side salad with vinaigrette

Variations:

• Vegetarian: Omit sausage and add cannellini beans
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce
• Different sausage: Italian sausage or chorizo
• Roast the butternut squash
• Add carrots, celery, or spinach
• A touch of maple syrup

I’m confident that you’ll love this Butternut Squash Sausage Soup as much as I do. It’s a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear about any variations you tried or how you served it. Did you add a special ingredient? Did you pair it with a particular wine? Your feedback is invaluable and helps other readers discover new and exciting ways to enjoy this delicious soup. Don’t be shy – let me know what you think! Happy cooking!