Hearty Butternut Squash and Lentil Soup with Chicken Sausage Recipe and Ingredients Guide

When the temperatures drop, a warm bowl of soup can be the ultimate comfort food. This Hearty Butternut Squash and Lentil Soup with Chicken Sausage is not only delicious but also brimming with nutrients. The sweet butternut squash works perfectly with protein-packed lentils and savory chicken sausage. Together, they create a satisfying meal that you can enjoy any day of the week.

In this guide, we'll break down the ingredients you'll need for this tasty soup and provide a detailed step-by-step recipe to help you make it from scratch.

Ingredients

To whip up this comforting soup, gather these ingredients:

1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled and diced
1 cup of dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
1 pound of chicken sausage, sliced (go for spicy or mild based on what you prefer)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

This selection of ingredients not only offers a burst of flavors but also ensures that each bowl is packed with essential nutrients.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent. This foundational step creates a rich flavor base for your soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, and smoked paprika to the softened vegetables. Stir well and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. This pair of spices enhances the soup's overall aroma, creating a welcoming kitchen experience.

Step 3: Incorporate the Butternut Squash and Lentils

Next, toss in the diced butternut squash along with the rinsed lentils. Mix everything together so the ingredients are well distributed. The vibrant colors of the squash and lentils add visual appeal, making your meal even more appetizing.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Pour the vegetable or chicken broth into the pot, ensuring all your ingredients are submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and squash are tender. This simmering phase allows the rich flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a hearty soup.

Step 5: Add Chicken Sausage

Once the lentils and squash are tender, stir in the sliced chicken sausage. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes to ensure the sausage is heated through. Adding sausage at this stage introduces a satisfying savory depth to the dish.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Lastly, taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if you choose. This soup is ideal for meal prep; it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for later.

Serves 4

Pro Tips for Making the Best Soup

Choose the Right Sausage: The flavor of your chicken sausage can make a big difference. Consider using apple or herb-flavored varieties that complement the sweetness of the butternut squash well.
Adjust the Consistency: If you enjoy a thicker soup, blend a portion using an immersion blender. Alternatively, if you want a thinner consistency, add more broth gradually until it reaches your desired texture.

Including leafy greens, like spinach or kale, during the last few minutes of cooking can provide extra nutrition and color.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Butternut Squash and Lentil Soup with Chicken Sausage is the perfect dish for colder days when you need something warm and filling. Its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients will make it a hit in your household.

Whether you're cooking for yourself or for family, this recipe is easy to follow and allows for customization to suit your taste. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor a comforting bowl to warm your day!