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Cozy Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Soup with Sage

cozy slow cooker butternut squash soup with sage - featured image

This cozy slow cooker butternut squash soup with sage is a set-it-and-forget-it fall favorite. With simple pantry ingredients and a naturally creamy texture, it’s perfect for busy weekdays and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large butternut squash (about 34 pounds), peeled and cubed
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 45 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 1012 fresh sage leaves OR 2 teaspoons dried sage
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (optional)
  • 1 medium apple (Granny Smith), peeled and diced
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Optional toppings: toasted pumpkin seeds, drizzle of cream or coconut milk, fried sage leaves, red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prep the squash: Peel the butternut squash, cut off both ends, halve lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and cut into 1-inch cubes.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Add smashed garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Layer in slow cooker: Transfer sautéed onions and garlic to a 5-6 quart slow cooker. Add cubed squash, diced apple, sage leaves (or dried sage), and pour in vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until squash is fork-tender.
  5. Blend: Turn off slow cooker and let cool for 5 minutes. Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth, or transfer in batches to a regular blender (be careful with hot liquid).
  6. Add creaminess and season: Stir in coconut milk (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Start with 1 teaspoon salt and adjust.
  7. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with desired toppings.

Notes

Sautéing the aromatics adds depth of flavor. Cut squash evenly for consistent cooking. Season at the end. Soup tastes even better the next day. For a thicker soup, simmer on stovetop after blending or add a cooked potato or white beans before blending.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker butternut squash soup, butternut squash soup with sage, fall soup, vegan soup, gluten-free soup, easy soup recipe