Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Bacon
Cozy Up with Roasted Butternut Squash with Bacon
As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a comforting, flavorful dish to warm you from the inside out. Today, we’re sharing a recipe that perfectly embodies those autumnal vibes: Roasted Butternut Squash with Bacon. This isn’t just another side dish; it’s a versatile delight that works beautifully as an appetizer, a hearty side, or even a light entree.
Butternut squash, with its naturally sweet and nutty flavor, is the star of the show. Roasting it brings out its best qualities, creating a tender, caramelized texture. And let’s be honest, everything is better with bacon! The smoky, salty bacon adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the squash, creating a truly irresistible combination. The aromatic blend of thyme, sage, and nutmeg elevates the dish to a whole new level of cozy.
This recipe is surprisingly simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase seasonal produce and impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful & Comforting: The perfect blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal.
- Easy to Make: Minimal ingredients and simple instructions.
- Seasonal: Showcases the best of autumn produce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute the bacon?
A: Absolutely! Pancetta or prosciutto would be delicious alternatives. For a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon altogether or use smoked paprika to add a smoky flavor.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes! Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. You can also substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a creamy texture.
Q: How can I adjust the sweetness?
A: If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can reduce the amount of butternut squash or add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
Q: Can I roast the squash ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can roast the squash a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before adding it to the pot with the other ingredients.
Q: What wine pairs well with this dish?
A: A crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would complement the flavors beautifully. Alternatively, a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir would also be a good choice.
Roasted Butternut Squash with Bacon
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon sage
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut butternut squash in half, scoop out seeds, and place cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Roast butternut squash for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
- While squash is roasting, heat chicken stock in a large pot.
- Scoop out roasted squash and add to the pot with chicken stock, thyme, sage, and nutmeg.
- Use an immersion blender or hand mixer to puree the mixture until smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream and heat through.
- Serve topped with fresh chives and crumbled bacon.
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