Why Make This Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup (High Protein)
There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially on chilly days. This Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup not only warms you up but also packs a nutritious punch. With the earthy sweetness of butternut squash, hearty ground Italian sausage, and protein-rich ingredients like beans and quinoa, this soup becomes a delightful meal in itself. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or for meal prep, making it a go-to recipe for families and individuals alike. Plus, utilizing your slow cooker means the flavors enhance throughout the day while you go about your routine!
How to Make Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup (High Protein)
Crafting this soup is a breeze, thanks to the slow cooker. You start with a little stovetop action to bring out the flavors of the sausage and aromatics, then let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting. The combination of sautéed onion and garlic with the spiced sausage creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the dinner table. By the end of the cooking process, you’ll have a rich, creamy soup that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1.5 pounds ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 large butternut squash (peeled and diced (approximately 4 cups))
- 3 medium carrots (chopped)
- 2 stalks celery (chopped)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or farro
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast (about half a rotisserie chicken)
- 1 cup chopped spinach (optional)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (for serving, about 2 tablespoons per bowl)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. The onion should be golden around the edges but not browned.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the sausage is thoroughly browned with no pink remaining. If there’s excess fat (more than 2 tablespoons pooling separately), drain it off to prevent the soup from being greasy.
- Transfer the sausage mixture to your 6-quart slow cooker. Add the diced butternut squash, chopped carrots, celery, white beans, and shredded chicken breast. Pour in the broth and add the thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure even distribution.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the vegetables are fork-tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the cooked quinoa (cook while soup simmers or use pre-cooked), chopped spinach, and balsamic vinegar for added nutrition, texture, and flavor.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Serve hot with a generous dollop of Greek yogurt (about 2 tablespoons per serving) and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for extra protein and creaminess.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (1 cup) of Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup contains approximately:
- Calories: 380
- Total Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Dietary Fiber: 10 g
- Sugars: 6 g
- Protein: 25 g
How to Serve Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup (High Protein)
This soup is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. A simple bowl garnished with Greek yogurt and Parmesan makes for a nutritious meal on its own. Pair it with crusty bread or a light green salad for a complete dining experience. You can also use it as an appetizer at your next gathering or serve it in small cups for a cozy soup bar.
How to Store Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup (High Protein)
Storing this soup is easy! Allow it to cool to room temperature, then transfer any leftovers to airtight containers. It will keep in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. The soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup (High Protein)
- For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup before serving.
- To save time, use pre-cubed butternut squash available in the produce section or frozen options.
- If you want more greens, feel free to add kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach.
- Experiment with spices! A pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can elevate the flavors even further.
Delicious Variations
Feel free to customize this soup to suit your taste preferences!
- Try swapping out the Italian sausage for turkey sausage or chicken sausage.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the sausage and add additional beans, like black beans or chickpeas.
- Change up the grains! Brown rice, barley, or even lentils could be fantastic substitutes for quinoa or farro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the sausage and substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth. You can increase the amount of beans and add more vegetables for a hearty soup.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To control the spice level, choose mild Italian sausage or leave it out entirely. If you enjoy heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
Can I use a different type of squash?
Absolutely! While butternut squash adds a lovely sweetness, you can use acorn squash, pumpkin, or any other favorite squash you prefer.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Butternut Squash & Sausage Soup is a nourishing meal hack that combines convenience with hearty flavors, making it ideal for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe at home—your taste buds will thank you! Share your own variations or experiences with the soup below. Happy cooking!