Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that perfectly balances the sweet flavors of butternut squash with the spiciness of Italian sausage. This easy, one-pot soup also includes white beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and fresh spinach, making it a wholesome and filling meal, perfect for chilly weather. It comes together in just 30 minutes and is a great option for fall and winter dinners. Plus, it freezes well for later!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced (white onion can be substituted)

• 1 pound Italian pork sausage (hot, mild, or sweet)

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed into ½-inch pieces (about 2 ½ cups)

• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 cups chicken broth (reduced sodium)

• 2 bay leaves

• 15.5 ounces canned Great Northern beans (rinsed and drained)

• 14.5 ounces canned fire-roasted diced tomatoes

• 2 teaspoons salt (or to taste)

• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)

• 2 cups fresh baby spinach (kale can be substituted)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onions and sauté for 3 minutes. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Remove the sausage and onion mixture from the pot and set it aside.

2. Cook the Squash and Garlic: In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the butternut squash cubes and garlic, and sauté for 1 minute.

3. Simmer the Soup: Add chicken broth, bay leaves, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the squash is tender.

4. Combine the Soup: Return the sausage and onion mixture to the pot. Add the beans, tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat through for about 2 minutes.

5. Add Spinach and Lemon: Add the spinach and lemon juice (optional). Stir for 2 minutes or until the spinach wilts.

6. Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrients

• Calories: 351 per serving

• Carbohydrates: 27g

• Protein: 15g

• Fat: 21g

  • Saturated Fat: 6g

• Sodium: 1687mg

• Fiber: 5g

• Sugar: 4g

Why Choose Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup?

This soup has it all: it’s nutritious, comforting, and packed with flavor. The butternut squash brings natural sweetness and creaminess to the broth, while the sausage adds savory depth and a touch of spice. The white beans contribute heartiness, and the fire-roasted tomatoes provide a smoky, tangy element that enhances the soup’s flavor. Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and a burst of freshness, making the soup balanced and wholesome.

The combination of ingredients makes this soup a great option for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week or freeze it for future use. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you need something quick, satisfying, and full of good-for-you ingredients.

The Key Ingredients for Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup

This soup is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that create a delicious, balanced meal:

• Italian Sausage: The star of this soup, Italian sausage (hot, mild, or sweet), provides rich, savory flavor and spice. It also adds depth to the broth as it cooks and releases its juices.

• Butternut Squash: This sweet and creamy vegetable adds both texture and flavor to the soup. It’s rich in vitamins A and C, making it a nutritious addition.

• White Beans: Great Northern beans are used for added protein and fiber, making the soup more filling and hearty.

• Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: The smoky flavor of fire-roasted tomatoes enhances the overall flavor of the soup, giving it a deeper, more robust taste.

• Spinach: Fresh baby spinach adds color, nutrients, and a mild, earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the squash and the spice of the sausage.

• Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice at the end adds a refreshing, tangy note that brightens the soup and balances the richness of the sausage and squash.

How to Make Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup

This easy soup is prepared in just a few simple steps. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables and Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Once the sausage is browned and cooked through, remove the mixture from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Squash and Garlic

In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the butternut squash cubes and garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute. This helps to bring out the flavors of the squash and garlic.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Add the chicken broth and bay leaves to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the butternut squash becomes tender.

Step 4: Combine the Soup

Return the sausage and onion mixture to the pot. Add the drained white beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let the soup heat through for about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Lemon Juice

Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt into the soup, about 2 minutes. Add the lemon juice (optional) to brighten the flavors and stir to combine.

Step 6: Serve

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors of this soup. You can garnish with extra fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if desired.

Nutritional Benefits of Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup

This soup is both nourishing and satisfying, with approximately 351 calories per serving. It offers a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, making it a filling meal:

• Protein: Each serving provides 15 grams of protein, primarily from the sausage and white beans.

• Carbohydrates: With 27 grams of carbohydrates, the soup provides energy, and the 5 grams of fiber help with digestion and provide a feeling of fullness.

• Fat: The soup has 21 grams of fat, with 6 grams coming from saturated fat, primarily from the sausage and olive oil. These fats contribute to the richness of the soup, making it more satisfying.

• Vitamins and Minerals: Butternut squash is rich in vitamin A, and the spinach provides vitamin K and iron. The beans offer a good source of fiber, and the broth adds electrolytes and hydration.

Customizing Your Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup

While this recipe is delicious as written, it can easily be adjusted to suit your preferences:

• Sausage: If you prefer a milder or spicier flavor, feel free to choose between sweet, mild, or hot Italian sausage, or substitute with turkey sausage for a leaner option.

• Vegetables: If you want to add more vegetables, consider adding parsnips, zucchini, or even a handful of kale. These can be sautéed along with the onions and garlic.

• Beans: If you prefer a different type of bean, you can substitute the Great Northern beans with cannellini beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas.

• Spices: For a bit more flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to bring out the sweetness of the squash. You can also experiment with chili flakes or smoked paprika for a smoky, spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions for Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup

This hearty soup is perfect on its own but can be paired with various sides for a more complete meal:

• Bread: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread, such as sourdough or a baguette, for dipping into the savory broth.

• Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the soup and provide additional texture.

• Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream can add a creamy finish to the soup and enhance its flavor.

Conclusion

Butternut Squash and Sausage Soup is a delicious, comforting, and wholesome meal that’s perfect for the colder months. The sweetness of the squash and the spice of the sausage blend beautifully in this easy one-pot dish. With its rich flavors, fiber-packed beans, and fresh spinach, this soup makes for a filling and satisfying meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, and it freezes well for future meals. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this hearty soup whenever you need a delicious, nourishing dish!