As the leaves begin to turn and that crisp autumn air sets in, my cravings shift toward hearty, warming meals that wrap me in a cozy embrace. This Butternut Squash, Sausage, and Kale Soup has quickly become my go-to for those chilly evenings. The moment you have your first spoonful, you’ll understand why. Imagine the rich aroma of smoky sausage mingling with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash, all simmered to perfection in your trusty crockpot.
One blissful afternoon, I decided to experiment with what I had on hand, and this delightful combination was born. It’s not just a soup; it’s a celebration of fall’s bounty, complete with nutrient-packed kale and a depth of flavor that will impress your family and friends. Even better, it’s incredibly easy to prepare – just set it and forget it! Join me in creating this wholesome dish that promises to lift your spirits and warm your soul as the days grow shorter.
Why is Butternut Squash Sausage and Kale Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth: This soup is a delightful embrace on chilly evenings, combining savory sausage with sweet squash.
Nutrient-dense: Packed with kale and vitamins, it’s a nourishing option for health-conscious eaters.
Easy prep: Simply chop, sauté, and toss everything in the crockpot—perfect for busy weeknights!
Flavorful fusion: The blend of smoky and sweet flavors creates a rich, aromatic broth that tantalizes your taste buds.
Versatile: Whether you want to add beans for protein or make it vegetarian, this recipe can adapt to your personal taste!
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it at gatherings and watch it vanish—everyone will want seconds!
Butternut Squash Sausage and Kale Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
- Butternut Squash – Provides creamy sweetness and texture; you can substitute with pumpkin or acorn squash if needed.
- Spicy Italian Chicken Sausages – Adds depth and heat to the dish; for a lighter option, consider using mild sausage or turkey sausage.
- Kale – Offers nutrition and vibrant color; spinach or Swiss chard can also be nice alternatives.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor significantly; opt for fresh garlic for the best aromatic qualities.
- Onion – Brings sweetness and depth to the broth; shallots work wonderfully as a substitute.
For Cooking
- Vegetable Oil – Used for sautéing ingredients; you can easily swap it with olive oil or butter for a richer flavor.
- Chicken Broth – Provides savory richness to the soup; low-sodium broth is a great alternative if you’re watching salt intake.
- Smoked Paprika – Infuses a lovely smoky flavor; if it’s unavailable, regular paprika can work in a pinch.
- Italian Seasoning – This herb blend elevates the flavor profile beautifully; feel free to use mixed dried herbs instead.
- Red Wine Vinegar – Adds a nice acidity to balance flavors; apple cider vinegar can be used for a milder taste.
For Garnishing
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Delivers a salty, umami finish; it can be omitted for a dairy-free version or replaced with nutritional yeast.
This Butternut Squash Sausage and Kale Soup is not only delicious but also a wholesome way to enjoy the comforting flavors of fall!
How to Make Butternut Squash Sausage and Kale Soup
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Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling and cubing the butternut squash, mincing the garlic and onion, slicing the sausages, and chopping the kale. This ensures all the flavors are ready to mingle!
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Sauté the Sausage: In a Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sausages and sauté until they’re beautifully caramelized, about 4-5 minutes. Once done, remove them and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, toss in the minced garlic and onion. Sauté until fragrant, approximately 4-5 minutes, allowing those delightful scents to fill your kitchen.
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Cook the Squash: Stir in the cubed butternut squash, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 8 minutes, adding a splash of broth if it starts to stick. It’s all about getting those flavors to blend!
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Transfer to Crockpot: Carefully transfer the sautéed mixture to your crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth, and sprinkle in the smoked paprika and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine and season to taste.
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Slow Cook: Set your crockpot to low and cook for 4 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped kale and cover the pot to let it wilt nicely.
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Add the Finishing Touches: Just before serving, add a splash of red wine vinegar for a hint of acidity. Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, alongside crusty bread for a cozy meal.
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an added burst of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Butternut Squash Sausage and Kale Soup?
As the comforting aroma of your soup fills the kitchen, consider these delightful companions to create a complete and satisfying meal.
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Crusty Bread: Nothing beats a warm slice of freshly baked bread. Its crunchy exterior and soft interior are perfect for dipping into the rich broth of your soup.
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Simple Side Salad: A light, tangy salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a splash of vinaigrette adds freshness and contrast to the hearty soup.
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Garlic Parmesan Knots: These savory knots offer a delightful twist to your meal, enhancing the Italian flavors found in the soup with each buttery bite.
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Cheesy Grits: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness of grits provide a satisfying, comforting contrast to the soup’s hearty ingredients.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness, when roasted, complements the sweetness of the butternut squash beautifully, turning your meal into a feast for the senses.
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Apple Cinnamon Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note! This warm dessert contrasts nicely with the savory soup while embodying the flavors of fall, perfect for cozy nights.
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Spiced Hot Cider: A warm drink, like spiced apple cider, pairs wonderfully with your soup, enhancing the autumn experience while warming you from the inside out.
Butternut Squash Sausage and Kale Soup Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own with these delightful twists and substitutes that will tantalize your taste buds!
- Vegetarian: Swap out sausage for plant-based options or simply add more vegetables, making the soup hearty and packed with flavor.
- Quinoa Boost: Stir in cooked quinoa to enhance protein and texture while adding a delightful nutty flavor.
- Bean Power: Incorporate chickpeas or black beans for extra fiber and protein, turning it into a satisfying meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a touch of heat that will warm you from the inside out.
- Creamy Version: Blend a portion of the soup to create a creamy consistency, then stir back in the chunky bits for added texture.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic lift that beautifully complements the autumn flavors.
- Coconut Flair: Replace some of the broth with coconut milk for a rich, creamy soup that offers a tropical twist.
- Sour Notes: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving to brighten the flavors and add a zesty finish.
Make Ahead Options
This Butternut Squash Sausage and Kale Soup is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and prepare all the vegetables and sausages up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Furthermore, you can transfer the sautéed mixture to the crockpot and add the broth the night before for a super-efficient morning. Just remember to refrigerate your ingredients separately to maintain their freshness and prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, combine everything in the crockpot and set it to cook on low for approximately four hours. It’ll be just as delicious, saving you crucial time on busy weeknights!
Storage Tips for Butternut Squash Sausage and Kale Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to retain its delicious flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or sturdy zip-top bags, pressing out as much air as possible.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of broth as needed.
Texture Maintenance: To preserve the soup’s chunky texture, be careful not to overheat, as the kale may become mushy if reheated too aggressively.
Helpful Tricks for Butternut Squash Sausage and Kale Soup
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Sauté for Flavor: Don’t skip sautéing the sausage and aromatics. This step caramelizes the flavors, creating a rich base for your soup.
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Avoid Overcooking Kale: Add the kale in the last 30 minutes of cooking to maintain its vibrant color and tender texture, enhancing the overall soup experience.
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Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning just before serving. This prevents over-salting and ensures your Butternut Squash Sausage and Kale Soup is perfectly balanced.
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Utilize Your Crockpot: Experiment with cooking times based on your model. Some crockpots may cook faster; it’s better to check periodically for doneness.
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Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins, like swapping kale for spinach, keeping your soup fresh and exciting!
Butternut Squash Sausage and Kale Soup Recipe FAQs
What can I substitute for butternut squash?
Absolutely! If you can’t find butternut squash, feel free to use pumpkin or acorn squash instead. Both will retain that creamy sweetness and add their own unique flavors to the soup.
How should I store leftovers of the Butternut Squash Sausage and Kale Soup?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring you let it cool completely before sealing to preserve its delicious flavors! Just remember to label it, so you can enjoy it later.
Can I freeze this soup, and how long will it last?
Yes, you can freeze Butternut Squash Sausage and Kale Soup! I often freeze it in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, but be sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing. For reheating, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat to warm gently.
Is there a way to make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Very! You can make this soup vegetarian by using plant-based sausage or omitting the sausage altogether, and increasing the amount of vegetables. To go vegan, just skip the Parmesan cheese garnish and consider using nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor!
What if my kale gets too mushy?
To prevent the kale from overcooking, add it to the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking time. This preserves its vibrant color and texture, ensuring it complements the other ingredients beautifully without becoming mushy.
Can dogs eat butternut squash or kale from the soup?
Definitely! Both butternut squash and kale are safe for dogs in moderation. However, before serving any of the soup to your furry friend, remember to omit any seasonings, especially garlic and onion, as they can be harmful to pets. Always consult your vet if you’re unsure.
Butternut Squash Sausage and Kale Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and cube the butternut squash, mince the garlic and onion, slice the sausages, and chop the kale.
- In a Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sausages and sauté until caramelized, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the minced garlic and onion until fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the cubed butternut squash, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 8 minutes.
- Transfer the sautéed mixture to your crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth, and sprinkle in the smoked paprika and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
- Set your crockpot to low and cook for 4 hours. Stir in the chopped kale 30 minutes before serving.
- Add a splash of red wine vinegar before serving and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese.