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Cozy Slow Cooker Acorn Squash and Apple Soup

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A creamy, comforting winter soup made with acorn squash and apples in a slow cooker. This easy recipe requires minimal prep time and delivers rich, balanced flavors with a silky texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium acorn squash (2–3 lbs), seeds removed, flesh chopped into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 medium apples (mix of tart and sweet, e.g., Granny Smith and Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Wash the acorn squash, cut it in half lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds and pulp. Chop the flesh into 1-inch cubes. Peel, core, and chop the apples into similar-sized cubes.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. (Optional: Skip this step for a dump-and-go method).
  3. Transfer the chopped squash, apples, and sautéed onions/garlic into the slow cooker.
  4. Pour in the broth and sprinkle in the cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir to combine and ensure solids are mostly submerged.
  5. Cover and cook on Low for 6-7 hours or on High for 3-4 hours, until the squash and apples are tender.
  6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or leave it chunky. Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk if using.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a thinner soup, leave the lid off for the last hour of cooking. For a thicker soup, add less broth. If using a regular blender, blend in batches and vent the lid to avoid steam buildup. The soup can be made dairy-free by using olive oil and coconut milk. It freezes well for up to three months.

Nutrition

Keywords: acorn squash soup, apple soup, slow cooker recipes, winter soup, vegetarian soup, healthy comfort food, gluten-free soup, easy dinner

Find it online: https://zoeplate.com/cozy-slow-cooker-acorn-squash-and-apple-soup-best-15-minute-easy-recipe/