Name: Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 140 min
Ingredients: 8 cups butternut squash (cubed); ½ white onion (finely chopped); 5 cloves garlic (minced); 5 cups vegetable stock; ½ cup parmesan cheese (shaved); salt (to taste); pepper (to taste); fresh herbs (optional for garnish)

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There’s something truly warming about a bowl of Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup. Every fall, as the leaves turn golden and the air crisp, I find myself drawn to the comforting aroma of squash soup simmering away in the kitchen. The way the rich, creamy texture envelops you is like a hug from the inside. I remember when I first made this dish; it was a rainy weekend, and the thought of a hearty soup felt perfect. I gathered my ingredients, letting the vibrant color of the butternut squash inspire me, and before I knew it, the house was filled with delightful scents. Whether on a chilly evening or during a festive gathering, this soup has a way of bringing warmth and joy to the table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
2 hr 20 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
120 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
230 kcal

Protein:
6 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free

Fat:
5 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Blender, Slow Cooker

Why This Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup Stands Out

It’s Incredibly Easy

One of the best things about this Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup is how simple it is to prepare. You can just toss all of your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. There’s no need for intricate techniques or monitoring the stove. Just prepare the ingredients, set it, and forget it!

The Flavor is Unmatched

Butternut squash, with its natural sweetness, combines beautifully with the savory notes of the broth and the subtle kick of garlic and onions. The end result is a harmonious blend of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying. Each spoonful delivers a taste of wholesome goodness.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This soup is fantastic for those busy weeknights when you want something nutritious without the fuss. You can make a large batch and store it in individual containers for a quick lunch or dinner option throughout the week. It reheats perfectly, ensuring that you can enjoy this deliciousness anytime.

Customizable to Your Liking

Feel free to get creative! Whether you want to add spices for an extra kick or swap in different herbs, this Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup serves as a wonderful base that welcomes your personal touch. Love a little heat? Add cayenne. Want a creamier texture? Stir in some coconut milk at the end.

Great for Entertaining

If you’re hosting friends or family, this soup is a crowd-pleaser. Its beautiful color and inviting aroma make it ideal for dinner parties or casual get-togethers. Serve it in a stylish bowl, and it will surely impress your guests!

Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup

The ingredients in this Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup come together to create a dish full of flavor and nourishment. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving that creamy, rich texture and delicious taste. The star of the show, butternut squash, brings natural sweetness and a velvety consistency, while the aromatic garlic and onion add depth. Together with vegetable stock, parmesan cheese, and a dash of seasoning, these ingredients create a warm embrace that is perfect for any season.

8 cups cubed butternut squash: This is the main ingredient, giving the soup its creamy base and natural sweetness.
½ finely chopped white onion: Adds an essential depth of flavor and a slight sweetness when cooked.
5 cloves minced garlic: A key flavor enhancer that brings out the richness of the soup.
5 cups vegetable stock: The liquid base that helps to blend the flavors and create a soup-like consistency.
½ cup shaved parmesan cheese: Offers a creamy texture and adds a savory touch.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing the flavors.
Optional fresh herbs for garnish: Adds a fresh finish and a pop of color.

Recipe Steps for Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup

Making this Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup is a breeze! Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a delicious, warm meal ready to enjoy. Don’t worry if it seems lengthy; it’s all about letting the slow cooker do its magic!

Start by gathering your ingredients. Make sure the butternut squash is peeled and cubed into manageable sizes. This will help it cook evenly and blend smoothly later on.
In your 6 quart slow cooker, combine the cubed butternut squash, finely chopped white onion, minced garlic, and vegetable stock. Give everything a nice stir to mix the ingredients.
Now, cover the slow cooker and set it to high. Let it cook for about 2 hours. If you’re in a hurry, this is the best option! Alternatively, you can set it to low for about 4 hours if you prefer.
As it cooks, the smell will start to fill your kitchen! You’ll know it’s ready when the butternut squash is fork-tender and easily breaks apart.
Once it’s done, carefully transfer the contents of the slow cooker to a blender. If you have an immersion blender, feel free to use that directly in the slow cooker! Blend until you get a smooth and creamy consistency.
After blending, return the soup to the slow cooker if you used a traditional blender. Stir in the shaved parmesan cheese and cover it for another 5 to 10 minutes. This will ensure the cheese melts and integrates well into the soup.
Before serving, taste your soup and add salt and pepper as needed. This is an essential step to enhance the overall flavor.
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with optional fresh herbs for garnish. This will add a lovely touch and elevate the presentation.
Enjoy your warm and hearty Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup with some crusty bread or a salad for a perfect meal.

Things Worth Knowing

Make sure to peel the butternut squash thoroughly as the skin can be tough and wouldn’t blend well.
Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in the fridge or freezer to prevent condensation.
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or coconut milk after blending.
To add a bit of spice, consider incorporating some red pepper flakes during cooking.

Customization Ideas

One of the best parts about this Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup is how adaptable it is. Here are some fantastic ideas to personalize it to your taste:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Pairing: This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread for dipping.
Spicing it Up: If you love a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes while cooking.
Herb Variations: Consider adding fresh thyme or rosemary for an earthy flavor boost.
Cheesy Touch: Top with more parmesan cheese or other cheese of your choice just before serving!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup

Serving the Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup is just as delightful as making it. Here are some great ideas to enhance your experience:

Serve Hot: Always serve the soup hot to appreciate its creamy texture and rich flavors fully.
Garnish: Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil on top for added flavor.
Accompaniments: This soup is perfect on its own or with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
Ideal for Lunch: It makes for a fantastic lunch option, especially during the cooler months.
Meal Prep: Store servings in meal prep containers for a quick grab-and-go meal.
Occasions: This soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, holiday gatherings, or simply as a comforting meal on a cold day.

FAQ

Absolutely! Using frozen butternut squash can save you prep time and is just as nutritious. Just toss it directly into the slow cooker without thawing. The cooking time may remain the same, but keep an eye on the texture to ensure it becomes tender.

To make the Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup vegan, simply omit the parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative. Additionally, ensure that your vegetable stock is vegan-friendly. This way, you can enjoy a delicious plant-based version of this comforting dish!

If you prefer a thicker soup, try blending in a small amount of cooked rice or adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water before blending. This will give your soup that desired thickness while keeping the flavors intact.

This Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad, some warm crusty bread, or a grilled cheese sandwich. These sides not only complement the flavors but also make for a satisfying meal!

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup is not just a recipe; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a standout dish for any occasion. I encourage you to try making it, whether for yourself or for a gathering with loved ones. Enjoy the process and savor each delicious spoonful.