Creamy Butternut Squash Soup - A Cozy Delight for Any Occasion ( butternut squash soup, creamy squash soup, and autumn soup recipe )
When the air turns crisp, and the leaves begin to fall, nothing warms the soul like a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup. This vibrant orange soup not only looks beautiful but offers a rich, sweet flavor that is sure to satisfy. Whether you’re looking for a comforting starter or a hearty meal, this recipe is versatile enough to meet your needs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Butternut squash becomes soft and sweet as it slowly cooks down, making it the star of this dish. For those who prefer a silky-smooth texture, you can easily puree the soup to your desired consistency. If you’re planning to serve this as a main course, consider adding crabmeat, shrimp, or chicken to give it a protein boost. And if you’re short on time, don’t hesitate to buy precut squash from your local supermarket—it’s a convenient option that’s worth the extra cost.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 medium sweet onion, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, chopped
- 3 celery ribs, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions
Prep Your Slow Cooker: Start by coating the inside of your slow cooker pot with cooking spray, brushing it with oil, or lining it with a slow cooker liner. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté until they are tender, about 4 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to the soup.
Slow Cook the Soup: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle the dried thyme over the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 5-6 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Puree and Serve: Once the soup is done, you can puree it using an immersion blender or in batches in a regular blender if you prefer a smoother texture. Serve hot, and enjoy the cozy, comforting flavors of this autumnal soup.
Tips for Success
Cutting the Squash: If you’re up for it, cutting into a whole butternut squash can be quite satisfying. However, if you’re pressed for time, opt for the precut variety from the produce section of your supermarket. It’s a time-saver that’s well worth the investment.
Enhance the Flavor: Adding a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon can elevate the flavor of the soup, giving it an even more autumnal feel.
Make it a Meal: To turn this soup into a satisfying meal, add cooked crabmeat, shrimp, or shredded chicken during the last hour of cooking.