30-Minute Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup
This Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is a delightful hug in a bowl. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s the perfect remedy for chilly days or a comforting dish to serve at gatherings. I love how quickly this soup comes together—just 30 minutes from start to finish! It’s creamy, satisfying, and can easily be made in large batches for meal prep or cozy dinners with friends.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch or a warm starter for dinner, this soup fits the bill beautifully. Plus, it’s vegan and freezer-friendly, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Quick and easy: Whip up this soup in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
– Creamy texture: Thanks to coconut milk, every spoonful feels indulgent and rich.
– Packed with nutrients: Butternut squash and sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamins and minerals.
– Versatile: Enjoy it as a starter or main dish; it pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
– Freezer friendly: Make a big batch and store some for later—perfect for those days when you need a quick meal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious soup.
Vegetables
– 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)
Flavor Enhancers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
Liquid Base
– 400 ml tin full fat coconut milk (reserve two tablespoons for serving)
– 750 ml vegetable or chicken stock or water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Variations
The beauty of this soup lies in its flexibility! Feel free to experiment based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.
– Swap the vegetables: Try adding carrots or pumpkin for different flavors.
– Add some greens: Toss in spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
– Spice it up: If you love heat, add more chili flakes or even a splash of hot sauce!
– Garnish creatively: Top with fresh herbs, croutons, or toasted seeds for added texture.
How to Make Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by prepping your butternut squash and sweet potatoes. Peel them carefully, then chop them into small cubes. This helps them cook evenly and quickly. Slicing your onion and peeling the garlic will also be part of this step. If you choose to roast the vegetables beforehand, toss them with olive oil and roast at 400°F (200°C) until tender—this will enhance their natural sweetness!
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, sauté the sliced onion until it becomes translucent. This should take about 5 minutes. Adding garlic during the last minute of cooking allows it to infuse the oil without burning, creating a fragrant base for your soup.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Spices
Now it’s time to add your chopped butternut squash, sweet potatoes, ground cumin, cinnamon, chili powder, and chili flakes to the pot. Stir everything together so that the spices coat the vegetables evenly. This step is crucial as it layers flavor throughout the soup.
Step 4: Pour in Liquid
Carefully pour in your vegetable stock (or water) along with the coconut milk. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing it to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20 minutes or until all the vegetables are tender enough to blend smoothly.
Step 5: Blend Until Smooth
Using an immersion blender (or transferring in batches to a countertop blender), blend until smooth. This step transforms your ingredients into a silky soup that’s both comforting and delicious.
Step 6: Season to Taste
Taste your soup before serving; add salt and pepper according to your preference. A little extra sprinkle of chili flakes can also enhance its flavor profile if you like some extra heat!
Now you’re all set! Serve warm with a drizzle of reserved coconut milk on top for that extra touch of creaminess. Enjoy every bite of this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup!
Pro Tips for Making Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup
Making soup can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few tips up your sleeve to enhance the flavors. Here are some easy suggestions to ensure your butternut squash and sweet potato soup turns out perfectly every time.
– Roast the vegetables: If you have the time, roasting the butternut squash and sweet potatoes before adding them to the pot can add a wonderful depth of flavor. Simply toss them in olive oil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes.
– Adjust spices to taste: Spice levels can vary based on personal preference. Start with smaller amounts of cumin, cinnamon, and chili powder, then adjust according to your taste as you blend the soup.
– Blend thoroughly: For a creamy texture, make sure to blend the soup until completely smooth. You can use an immersion blender or transfer it in batches to a countertop blender.
– Use homemade stock: If possible, using homemade vegetable stock instead of store-bought can greatly enhance the flavor of your soup, making it richer and more satisfying.
– Taste before serving: Always taste your soup just before serving. A pinch of salt or a dash of lemon juice can elevate the flavors beautifully.
How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup
Serving this vibrant soup is an opportunity to get creative! Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a simple meal at home, here are some ideas for presenting this dish that will impress everyone at the table.
Garnishes
– Coconut milk drizzle: Swirl some reserved coconut milk on top for a beautiful presentation and an extra creamy touch.
– Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the soup just before serving for freshness and color.
Side Dishes
– Crusty bread: Serve with slices of warm crusty bread or baguette for dipping.
– Salad: A crisp side salad with mixed greens provides a great contrast to the creamy soup.
– Rice or quinoa: These grains complement the soup well, making it even more filling.
– Roasted vegetables: Pairing with roasted veggies adds texture and enhances flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
This soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later use without losing its deliciousness.
Storing Leftovers
– Cool completely: Allow the soup to cool down before transferring it to storage containers.
– Airtight containers: Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
– Portion sizes: Freeze in individual portions so you can defrost only what you need.
– Freezer-safe containers: Use freezer-safe containers or bags. The soup should last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating
– Thaw first: If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
– Heat gently: Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick.
FAQs
If you’re curious about any aspect of making this delicious butternut squash and sweet potato soup, here are some common questions answered for you!
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for additional flavor and nutrition.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes! This recipe is entirely plant-based as it uses coconut milk instead of dairy products.
How can I thicken my soup further?
If you’d like your soup even thicker, consider adding more sweet potatoes or blending in some cooked white beans for extra creaminess without altering the flavor significantly.
Can I make this in advance for meal prep?
Yes! This soup stores well in both the fridge and freezer, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to try this easy butternut squash and sweet potato soup recipe at home! It’s comforting, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Your loved ones will surely enjoy every spoonful—happy cooking!
Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by prepping your butternut squash and sweet potatoes. Peel them carefully, then chop them into small cubes.
