Roasted Butternut, Chicken Sausage & Spinach Soup

Warm up with a hearty Roasted Butternut, Chicken Sausage & Spinach Soup packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. This delightful combination brings together the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash, the savory punch of chicken sausage, and the fresh vibrancy of spinach in a comforting bowl that feels like a hug on a chilly day. It’s a perfect balance of textures and tastes, ideal for those looking for a nourishing meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort in a Bowl: This soup blends creamy roasted butternut with hearty sausage and tender spinach, delivering cozy satisfaction every time.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from squash and spinach alongside protein from chicken sausage, it’s wholesome and filling.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet full of flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, making it a flexible addition to your recipe lineup.
• Flavorful Layers: Roasting the squash intensifies its sweetness while the savory sausage and fresh greens add depth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Roasted Butternut, Chicken Sausage & Spinach Soup are simple but essential, each contributing a unique element to the final dish’s color, texture, and rich flavor profile.

• Butternut squash: Roasting enhances its natural sweetness and creates a velvety base for the soup.
• Chicken sausage: Provides lean protein with a juicy, savory taste that complements the squash.
• Fresh spinach: Adds a pop of green along with earthy freshness and vital nutrients.
• Onion and garlic: Builds a fragrant and flavorful foundation for the soup’s base.
• Chicken broth: Creates a rich, comforting liquid that ties all ingredients together smoothly.
• Olive oil: Used for roasting and sautéing to boost flavor and ensure tenderness.
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, thyme): Enhance the overall taste and bring warmth and balance to the dish.

Variations for Roasted Butternut, Chicken Sausage & Spinach Soup

The beauty of this soup lies in its flexibility. Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. These variations make adapting this recipe both fun and practical.

• Vegetarian option: Swap chicken sausage for roasted chickpeas or mushrooms to keep it hearty without meat.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a subtle kick and smoky aroma.
• Dairy addition: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for an extra creamy texture.
• Grain boost: Toss in cooked quinoa or barley for more fiber and a filling boost.
• Herb swap: Replace thyme with rosemary or sage to experiment with herbaceous notes.

How to Make Roasted Butternut, Chicken Sausage & Spinach Soup

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the butternut squash, then toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the cubes evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized for that wonderful natural sweetness.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Sausage

While the squash is roasting, slice the chicken sausage into bite-sized pieces. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and brown the sausage until fully cooked and browned on the edges, releasing those delicious savory juices.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the sausage. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and soft, infusing the base with fragrant warmth. This step layers the soup’s flavor beautifully.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Once the squash is roasted, add it to the pot along with chicken broth and thyme. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld for 15-20 minutes. This simmer concentrates the tastes throughout the soup.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Finish

Stir in fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, keeping its bright color and nutrients intact. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. For a smoother texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or leave it chunky for a hearty feel.

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Butternut, Chicken Sausage & Spinach Soup

• Roast evenly: Cut squash cubes uniformly to ensure consistent roasting and caramelization.
• Don’t skip browning: Browning the sausage develops deep, savory flavor essential to the soup.
• Use fresh broth: Quality chicken broth makes a noticeable difference in richness and taste.
• Wilt spinach last: Adding spinach at the end preserves its bright color and delicate texture.
• Temperature balance: Let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splatters and maintain safety.

How to Serve Roasted Butternut, Chicken Sausage & Spinach Soup

Garnishes

Top your soup with a handful of toasted pumpkin seeds, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added texture and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair this warm, comforting soup with crusty artisan bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad to round out your meal and add some crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in rustic bowls with a swirl of crème fraîche or Greek yogurt and a dusting of smoked paprika to add visual appeal and a creamy touch that elevates the experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for convenient weekday lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

Freeze leftovers in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Just be mindful that spinach may darken during freezing but will retain its flavor well after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much for a perfect consistency every time.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage for this soup?

Absolutely! While chicken sausage is lighter, pork or turkey sausage also work well and will add their own unique flavor to the dish.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this Roasted Butternut, Chicken Sausage & Spinach Soup is naturally gluten-free as long as the sausage and broth are labeled gluten-free.

Can I make this soup vegan or vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and use vegetable broth to keep it vegan-friendly.

How can I make the soup creamier without dairy?

Add coconut milk or blend some of the roasted squash to create a naturally creamy texture without using any dairy products.

What’s the best way to reheat the soup to retain flavor?

Slowly reheat on low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and preserve the soup’s balanced flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Roasted Butternut, Chicken Sausage & Spinach Soup to comfort your soul and nourish your body. With its blend of sweet, savory, and fresh elements, it’s an easy dish to love and even easier to share. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy every cozy, delicious spoonful!

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