Description
This Roasted Butternut Squash and Turkey Bacon Soup is a creamy, comforting bowl of goodness, perfect for chilly days. Roasted butternut squash brings a natural sweetness, while savory turkey bacon adds a smoky, rich depth. Finished with a hint of sage and thyme, this soup captures the flavors of fall in every spoonful. It’s both nourishing and satisfying, making it an ideal dish for a cozy lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried sage
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk or heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Roast the Butternut Squash:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized. Set aside.
2️⃣ Cook the Turkey Bacon:
- In a large pot over medium heat, add the chopped turkey bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving a bit of bacon for garnish if desired.
3️⃣ Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil if needed. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, sage, and thyme, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4️⃣ Combine and Simmer:
- Add the roasted butternut squash to the pot, followed by the broth. Stir to combine, then bring to a gentle simmer. Let the soup cook for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5️⃣ Blend the Soup:
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches, then return it to the pot. Add coconut milk or cream if a richer texture is desired.
6️⃣ Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with the reserved turkey bacon, and fresh parsley or chives. Serve warm.
Notes
This soup is a fantastic make-ahead option, as the flavors deepen with time. For extra flavor, try roasting the squash with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. Serve with crusty bread for a complete, cozy meal!