Butternut Squash Soup with Bacon: A Cozy, Flavorful Fall Classic
A harmony of smoky crunch, maple-kissed sweetness, and rich warmth in every cozy bite.
When the air grows crisp and autumn leaves start to fall, nothing spells comfort like a bowl of butternut squash soup enriched with crisp bacon. This beloved recipe delivers not only luscious, velvety texture and layered flavors but also versatility—serve it at a laid-back dinner or let it steal the show at any holiday table. In this guide, you’ll uncover detailed step-by-step instructions, helpful tips for success, creative variations, and everything you need to elevate the quintessential bowl of comfort.
Table of Contents
- Introduction: Why Butternut Squash Soup?
- Key Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Directions
- Tips for the Best Soup
- Variations and Substitutions
- Serving Suggestions
- Storage & Reheating
- FAQs
Why Make Butternut Squash Soup?
Butternut squash soup is a staple of fall and winter kitchens for good reason. The squash’s natural sweetness pairs perfectly with savory notes, while its creamy flesh yields a silky-smooth soup without extra thickeners. This recipe features bacon, heavy cream, and a hint of maple syrup, creating a balance between rich, smoky, and sweet flavors that’s truly irresistible.
- Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive holiday meals.
- Easy to Make: Simple techniques and readily available ingredients.
- Deeply Satisfying: Comforting enough on its own or as a starter to a celebratory feast.
Key Ingredients
The success of this soup depends on a handful of quality ingredients that offer both flavor and texture:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Thick-cut bacon | 8 oz, diced | Adds crunch, smokiness, and savory depth |
| Vegetable oil | As needed | Ensures enough fat to sauté and build layers of flavor |
| Onion | 1, diced | Sweet and aromatic base for soup |
| Butternut squash | 2 medium, peeled, seeded, cut in large cubes | Primary ingredient, provides creamy texture |
| Kosher salt | 1.5 tsp, divided | Brings out natural flavors, plus extra to taste |
| Low-sodium chicken broth | 4 cups | Savory base; can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup | Creates silky richness |
| Maple syrup | 1/4 cup | Layers in a hint of sweetness |
| Water | 1 cup | Helps adjust consistency |
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon
Start by heating a large heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add diced bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and crisp, about five minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, leaving the flavorful bacon drippings in the pot. If you want robust bacon flavor and do not have enough drippings (less than 1/4 cup), add a little vegetable oil to make up the difference.
Step 2: Sauté Onion
Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onion to the bacon drippings and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and lightly caramelized—about seven to eight minutes. This step enhances sweetness and builds a flavorful base for the soup.
Step 3: Cook Squash
Add cubed butternut squash and one teaspoon of salt to the onion mixture, tossing well to coat. Pour in the chicken broth and one cup of water, then bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the squash becomes very tender—around 20 minutes.
Step 4: Puree the Soup
Working in batches, transfer the soup mixture to a blender and puree until smooth. Never fill the blender more than halfway with hot soup to avoid splatters and burns. When all batches are smooth, pour the soup back into the pot. An immersion blender may also be used for convenience if available.
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Step 5: Finish with Cream and Maple
Stir in the heavy cream, maple syrup, and the remaining half teaspoon kosher salt. Let simmer for five minutes more, tasting and adjusting salt as needed. This step brings the soup to a silky finish and deepens complexity with a touch of sweetness.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle reserved crisp bacon on top for crunch and savor. Optional garnishes include fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley), cracked black pepper, or a swirl of cream.
Tips for the Best Butternut Squash Soup
- Peeled & Prepped Squash: Save time with store-bought, pre-peeled and chopped squash. Otherwise, microwave whole squash for a few minutes to soften the skin before peeling.
- Blending Safely: Always blend hot soup in small batches, holding the lid down with a towel. For hands-off blending, use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
- Depth of Flavor: Allow onions and bacon to caramelize; do not rush this step, as it’s essential for a rich soup.
- Consistency: Adjust soup thickness with additional broth or water, especially if reheating after storage.
- Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving; soup can be easily customized.
- Make-Ahead: Soup can be made up to three days ahead. Add bacon garnish only at serving for crispness.
Variations and Substitutions
Butternut squash soup is inherently adaptable. Transform this classic using the following suggestions:
- Vegetarian: Omit bacon and use olive oil for sautéing; replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Vegan: Use coconut milk or a rich non-dairy cream instead of heavy cream, and vegetable broth throughout.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne, curry powder, or a swirl of Thai red curry paste for a warming kick.
- Apple-Bacon: Add sliced tart apples to the roasting pan, omit garlic, substitute extra broth for coconut milk, and finish with a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness.
- Indian-Spiced: Stir in 1/2 tsp garam masala and fresh lime juice at the finish.
Serving Suggestions
Butternut squash soup shines solo yet pairs perfectly with sides and toppings:
- Serve as a starter for holiday or autumn meals.
- Pair with crusty bread, cornbread, or warm rolls.
- Top with toasted pumpkin seeds, chopped herbs, or a swirl of cream or coconut milk.
- Crumble extra bacon, add a drizzle of maple syrup, or toss on sharp cheddar for more decadence.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 6 days. Bacon topping is best stored separately.
- Freezing: The soup (without bacon topping) can be frozen up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to preserve silky texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the soup up to 3 days in advance. Store the bacon separately and sprinkle it on just before serving to maintain its crunch.
What’s the best way to peel butternut squash?
Pierce the squash with a fork, microwave for 3 minutes, let cool, and then peel; or use store-prepped squash to save effort and time.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels on broth and bacon to ensure no hidden gluten.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Try carrots, parsnips, or apples for deeper flavor, or roasted garlic for extra sweetness.
How do I get a silky texture?
Blend fully—using either an immersion blender or traditional blender—until very smooth. Add more cream or broth as desired.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, freeze the cooled soup (without bacon topping) up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before gently reheating.
Nutrition Information
Estimated per serving (without garnish):
- Calories: ~250
- Fat: ~14g
- Carbohydrates: ~27g
- Protein: ~7g
- Fiber: ~3g
Note: Actual values depend on brand and quantity of ingredients used.
Expert Tips for Success
- Don’t discard bacon drippings: These offer foundational savory flavor—don’t skip!
- Roast squash for deeper sweetness: For additional caramelized notes, roast squash until golden before adding to the soup pot.
- Maple syrup: Use pure maple syrup only for the best taste; avoid flavored syrups.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme, sage, or parsley are great finishing touches that brighten the final soup.
Bring Fall Comfort Home
A bowl of butternut squash soup with bacon delivers everything great autumn cooking promises: warmth, ease, and a nutritionally balanced meal. Whether you follow the classic recipe or choose a creative variation, this soup stands out as a festive centerpiece and as a reliable go-to for chilly nights. Experiment with toppings, customize spice blends, and enjoy this tasty tradition all season long.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a37001693/instant-pot-butternut-squash-soup-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a32947322/butternut-squash-soup-with-bacon-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a103161/simple-roasted-butternut-squash-soup/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a100116/butternut-squash-sausage-and-tortelloni-soup/
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