Hearty Butternut Squash Soup with Sausage: Your Ultimate Fall Comfort Food
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to chase away the chill, especially as the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp. Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a feeling – a warm, comforting hug on a spoon. While some might think of it as a cold-weather staple, I find joy in creating new soup masterpieces year-round, particularly ones that capture the essence of autumn. This Butternut Squash Soup with Sausage recipe is a true testament to that joy: effortlessly simple, packed with incredible flavor, and perfectly suited for any cozy occasion. It’s a delightful fusion of creamy, sweet butternut squash and savory, spiced sausage that will become a cherished part of your fall cooking repertoire.
Embracing the Flavors of Fall, Wherever You Are
The comforting power of a hot bowl of soup on a chilly day is truly unmatched. However, living in southern Alabama means adapting to much warmer days during the autumn months. While we once enjoyed the crisp air and occasional snow that perfectly aligned with soup season, our current climate often means enjoying the beach well into November. Don’t get me wrong, I adore being able to soak up the sun almost any time of year! Yet, there’s a part of me that still yearns for those traditional autumn vibes, which is why I make sure soup season is always on the menu, regardless of the thermometer. This butternut squash and sausage soup brings all the warmth and richness of fall to your table, no matter what the weather outside is like.
It’s about creating an atmosphere, a feeling of comfort and abundance that autumn inspires. This recipe perfectly encapsulates that spirit, blending the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the robust, savory notes of sausage and a medley of aromatic spices. Each spoonful is a little piece of fall, delivering a hug from the inside out and making every meal feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re nestled by a fireplace or simply enjoying a pleasant evening, this soup sets the perfect mood.
Crafting Your Cozy Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup: Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this butternut squash soup with sausage lies in its straightforward yet harmonious blend of ingredients. You don’t need a gourmet pantry to whip up this satisfying dish; just a few fresh staples and some common spices will do the trick. The beauty of this recipe is how simple components come together to create a complex and deeply comforting flavor profile. Here’s a quick overview of the essential ingredients. For specific measurements and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the detailed recipe card below.
Essential Ingredients for a Flavorful Blend
Gather these simple yet powerful ingredients to create your next favorite fall soup:
- Ground Sausage: The star savory component, offering depth and texture. Choose your preferred type (mild, hot, Italian, etc.).
- Olive Oil: For sautéing and building the base of flavors.
- Carrots: Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color, blending beautifully with the squash.
- Onion: Aromatic foundation that infuses the soup with a savory depth.
- Garlic: Essential for its pungent, warming flavor.
- Ground Sage: A classic fall herb that pairs wonderfully with squash and sausage.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- Black Pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and spice.
- Nutmeg: A subtle hint of warmth that complements the sweetness of butternut squash beautifully.
- Butternut Squash: The creamy, sweet foundation of the soup. You can use a whole squash (peeled and chopped) or convenient pre-cut squash.
- Butter: For richness and a smooth finish.
Kitchen Essentials for Soup Making
Having the right tools makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Dutch Oven or Large Pot: Ideal for browning sausage and simmering the soup evenly.
- Kitchen Spoon/Spatula: For stirring and breaking up ingredients.
- Blender: To achieve that wonderfully creamy, smooth texture (an immersion blender is a great alternative for less cleanup!).
- Sharp Knife: Essential for safely and efficiently preparing your vegetables.
- Soup Bowls: Because a beautiful bowl makes the soup even more enjoyable!
Butternut Squash Soup With Sausage Recipe
This recipe provides detailed steps to create a truly delicious and comforting butternut squash soup with sausage. Follow these instructions for a perfect bowl every time.
Butternut Squash Soup With Sausage Recipe
A comforting and flavorful recipe for homemade butternut squash soup with savory ground sausage, perfect for chilly evenings.
Print Recipe | Rate This Recipe
- Prep Time:
- 10 minutes
- Cook Time:
- 25 minutes
- Total Time:
- 35 minutes
- Servings:
- 6
- Calories:
- 406 kcal
- Author:
- Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 1 lbs. Ground Sausage
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 2 Carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 Onion, chopped
- 4 Cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoon Ground Sage
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
- ½ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
- 1.75 lbs. Butternut squash, peeled and chopped
- 3 Tablespoons Butter
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the ground sausage over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up into fine crumbles as it cooks. Once thoroughly browned, drain any excess fat and set the cooked sausage aside.
- Using the same pot, add the olive oil, chopped carrots, and chopped onion. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook until the onions are soft and translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the minced garlic, ground sage, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg to the pot. Cook for one minute more, stirring constantly, allowing the spices to become fragrant.
- Next, add the peeled and chopped butternut squash to the pot. Pour in just enough water to barely cover all the ingredients, typically around 3 cups.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer until both the butternut squash and carrots are very tender and can be easily mashed with a spoon against the side of the pot. This could take 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your squash pieces.
- Once the vegetables are tender, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the butter until it is completely melted and incorporated, adding a luxurious creaminess to the soup.
- Carefully transfer the soup mixture (working in batches if necessary) into a blender. Puree until the soup is completely smooth and creamy. Be cautious when blending hot liquids; ensure the blender lid is vented and covered with a towel to prevent steam buildup.
- Return the pureed soup to the same Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Stir in the browned sausage and cook until the soup is warmed through and the sausage is heated.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or your favorite toppings before serving. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful fall favorite!
Kitchen Tools
- Dutch Oven
- Blender (or Immersion Blender)
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 279
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Making Ahead, Storing, and Reheating Your Delicious Soup
This comforting fall soup is not just easy to make; it’s also wonderfully make-ahead-friendly, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights. Preparing a big batch means you can enjoy delicious, homemade soup without extra effort during the week.
Prep Smart: Make-Ahead Tips
You can significantly cut down on cooking time by prepping your vegetables in advance. Peel and chop the butternut squash, carrots, and onion a day or two before you plan to make the soup. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. We often do this with many of our frequently used staples to streamline cooking. You can even roast the butternut squash ahead of time for an even richer, deeper flavor profile, adding another layer of complexity to your finished soup.
Storing Leftovers for Future Enjoyment
Leftovers of this butternut squash soup are just as delicious, if not more so, the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly and enjoy within four days for optimal freshness and flavor. Proper storage is key to extending the life of your homemade meals.
Effortless Reheating Methods
Reheating your delicious soup is simple, whether you’re warming up a single serving or a larger portion. For individual servings, the microwave is your best friend: heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until piping hot. For larger quantities, gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming and prevent sticking. If you’ve frozen your soup, remember to let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and consistent temperature.
Customizing Your Soup: Delicious Variations and Dietary Options
One of the best things about this butternut squash soup is its incredible versatility. It’s a fantastic canvas for various customizations, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Feel free to get creative and make this recipe truly your own!
Sausage Substitutions and Flavor Boosters
While ground pork sausage offers a classic, hearty flavor, don’t hesitate to experiment with other options. For a lighter alternative or if you avoid red meat, try ground chicken or turkey sausage. If you’re looking for an extra punch of herby flavor, Italian sausage (mild or hot) works wonderfully. You could also try a spicy chorizo for a Spanish-inspired twist or even a plant-based sausage crumble for a vegetarian-friendly option that still delivers on texture and savory taste.
Adding More Goodness: Optional Mix-Ins
To enhance the texture and nutritional value, consider adding various ingredients to your soup. Diced tomatoes can add a touch of acidity and brightness, while white beans or chickpeas can boost protein and fiber. A pinch of red pepper flakes will introduce a gentle heat, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can add a salty, umami finish. For a more substantial soup, stir in some cooked wild rice or quinoa after pureeing. Leafy greens like spinach or kale can be wilted into the soup right before serving for an extra dose of vitamins.
Vegetarian and Vegan Adaptations
Making this soup suitable for vegetarian or vegan diets is incredibly simple. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the ground sausage entirely or replace it with your favorite meat-free crumbles. Ensure your chosen crumbles are browned and seasoned appropriately. To make this soup entirely vegan, follow the vegetarian guidance and swap the dairy butter for a plant-based butter alternative. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water for an even richer vegan base.
Gluten-Free and Other Dietary Considerations
For those following a gluten-free diet, this soup is generally safe, as most of its core ingredients are naturally gluten-free. However, it’s crucial to double-check the label on your ground sausage to ensure it is certified gluten-free, as some processed meats can contain hidden gluten-containing additives. Beyond gluten-free, the recipe is naturally sugar-free, containing only 5 grams of natural sugar per serving from the vegetables, with no added sugars. If you’re exploring an alcohol-infused option, Food.com offers a Bourbon Butternut Squash Soup that you might enjoy!
Scaling the Recipe for Any Gathering
The provided recipe yields approximately six generous servings, making it ideal for a family meal or a small gathering. Need more? Simply scale up the ingredient quantities proportionately. If you’re doubling or tripling the recipe, you might need to cook the sausage and possibly puree the soup in batches to avoid overcrowding your pot or blender, ensuring everything cooks evenly and blends smoothly. For fewer servings, halve the recipe – it’s just as delicious in a smaller batch!
Turning Up the Heat (or Keeping it Mellow)
If you prefer your soup with a kick, there are a few ways to infuse some heat. The easiest method is to use spicy Italian sausage, which brings both flavor and a pleasant level of warmth. Alternatively, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other spices, or stir in a dash of cayenne pepper to taste. If you prefer a milder soup, simply stick to mild sausage and follow the recipe as written, allowing the subtle spice of black pepper and nutmeg to shine through.
Expert Tips for the Best Butternut Squash Soup
Achieving a truly exceptional butternut squash soup is all about a few key techniques and considerations. These tips will help you elevate your soup from delicious to unforgettable, ensuring a smooth texture, rich flavor, and an enjoyable cooking experience.
- Achieving a Silky Smooth Texture: While a traditional blender works perfectly, an immersion blender (also known as a stick blender) is a fantastic tool for pureeing the soup directly in the pot. This significantly cuts down on the amount of dishware you’ll need to wash after cooking, making cleanup a breeze. However, always remember to let the soup cool down slightly before blending, whether using a regular or immersion blender. Hot liquids expand and can cause splashes or even the blender lid to burst off if not handled carefully. Safety first!
- Boosting Flavor with Roasted Squash: For a deeper, more caramelized flavor, consider roasting your butternut squash before adding it to the soup. Simply cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) until tender, usually 30-45 minutes. Once roasted, scoop out the flesh and add it to the pot as directed. This extra step adds an incredible depth of sweetness and nuttiness that truly enhances the soup.
- Experiment with Added Vegetables: This soup is very forgiving and welcomes additional vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor. We’ve seen delicious versions that incorporate leafy greens like kale or spinach, which can be wilted into the soup after blending. Other great additions include diced bell peppers, sweet potatoes, or even parsnips, which can be cooked along with the squash and carrots. Decide whether you want to blend these veggies into the soup for a smooth consistency or leave them chunky for added texture.
- Adjusting Consistency: If your soup is too thick, you can thin it out to your desired consistency by adding a splash of vegetable broth, chicken broth, or even water, a little at a time, until it reaches perfection. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
- Garnish for Elegance: Don’t underestimate the power of a good garnish! A swirl of cream (dairy or non-dairy), a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or sage, toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas), croutons, or even a drizzle of chili oil can add both visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor and texture to your butternut squash soup.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup
This Butternut Squash Soup with Sausage, with its cozy fall flavors and heartwarming richness, is a truly versatile dish. It’s a must-have in our household, especially during celebratory times like Oktoberfest! To help you round out your meal and perfectly celebrate the highlights of the fall harvest, here are some delightful menu pairing suggestions:
Complementary Sides
Pair your comforting soup with these delicious appetizers and sides:
- Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
- Easy Hasselback Potatoes
- Easy Frank’s Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
- Cheesy Bacon Potato Skins
- CrockPot Reuben Dip
- Buffalo Chicken Wontons
- CrockPot Bourbon Glazed Kielbasa
- CrockPot Cranberry Barbecue Meatballs
Hearty Main Course Companions
If you’re serving this soup as a starter or alongside another main, consider these robust options:
- Corned Beef Shepherd’s Pie
- Smoked Sausage Gnocchi
- CrockPot Bourbon Maple Pork Loin
- CrockPot Kielbasa with Potatoes & Green Beans
- CrockPot German Bratwurst
- Jalapeño Beer Brats
- CrockPot Guinness Corned Beef & Cabbage
Sweet Endings: Dessert Pairings
Finish your cozy meal with a touch of sweetness with these autumnal desserts:
- Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dip
- Ooey-Gooey Butter Cake
- Caramel Apple Dump Cake
- Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
- Apple Cider Cookies
- Apple Cider Muddy Buddies
- Maple Monkey Bread Bites
- Apple Pie Dumplings
- Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies
- CrockPot Fried Apples
Refreshing Beverages
Complete your meal with a perfectly paired drink:
- Candy Corn Jello Shots
- Fireball & Ginger Ale Cocktail
- Fireball Apple Cider
- Apple Cider Margarita
- Angry Balls Drink
- Guinness & Cider Beer Cocktail
- Apple Cider Mule
- Washington Apple Drink
- CrockPot Mulled Wine
- CrockPot Apple Pie Moonshine
When to Savor This Comforting Soup
This Butternut Squash Soup with Sausage is incredibly versatile and suitable for a variety of occasions. It’s perfect for adding warmth and flavor to any gathering or a simple weeknight meal.
- Lunch: A hearty and satisfying option for a midday meal.
- Dinner: A comforting main course or an elegant starter for your evening meal.
- Oktoberfest Celebrations: Its rich and savory profile makes it a fantastic addition to fall festivities.
- Tailgating Parties: Easy to transport and reheat, it’s a game-day crowd-pleaser.
- Family and Friend Gatherings: A delicious and impressive dish that feeds a crowd and receives rave reviews.
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Recipe originally shared on November 25, 2014. Updated September 2020.