This Creamy Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup is hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor! The smooth sweetness of butternut squash combines beautifully with savory sausage, tender orzo, and fresh spinach for a cozy dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings. It’s a complete meal in a bowl that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup:
- Rich and Hearty: The creamy base and sausage make this soup filling and delicious.
- Nutrient-Packed: Butternut squash and spinach add a boost of vitamins and fiber.
- One-Pot Wonder: Easy to make and even easier to clean up!
Ingredients for Creamy Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup:
- 1 lb sausage (chicken or turkey sausage, or your favorite variety)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups butternut squash, cubed (about 1 medium squash)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking)
Tools You’ll Need:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break it up into small crumbles with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. 4. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Squash
5. Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and season with thyme, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. 6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Step 4: Blend and Add Orzo
7. Use an immersion blender to carefully puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, then return it to the pot. 8. Stir in the orzo and let the soup simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
Step 5: Add Sausage and Spinach
9. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir in the fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
Step 6: Add Cream and Serve
10. Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and heat through. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. 11. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this hearty soup with a crusty loaf of bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Tips for the Best Creamy Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup:
- Pre-Cut Squash: Save time by using pre-cut butternut squash from the grocery store.
- Choose Your Sausage: Use your favorite sausage—chicken, turkey, or plant-based options work great.
- Blending Tip: For a chunkier texture, only blend half the soup, leaving some squash pieces whole.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: This soup freezes well! Cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q1: Can I use another type of pasta?
A: Yes! Any small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni works well in place of orzo.
Q2: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a non-dairy alternative for a creamy, dairy-free version.
Q3: What if I don’t have an immersion blender?
A: No problem! You can blend the soup in a regular blender in batches. Just be careful with hot liquids.
Conclusion: A Bowl of Comfort!
This Creamy Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup is everything you want in a cozy meal—rich, flavorful, and nutritious. The balance of creamy squash, savory sausage, and fresh spinach makes it a perfect fall or winter dinner. Give it a try and enjoy the warm, satisfying flavors!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 350
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 6g
