Smokey Butternut Squash Soup

Ingredients

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chipotle powder
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Pepitas (pumpkin seeds) for garnish
• Fresh chives, chopped
• Crème fraîche for serving
• Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Cook bacon in large pot until crispy. Remove and set aside.

2. In same pot, sauté onion in bacon fat and olive oil until soft.

3. Add garlic and spices, cook until fragrant.

4. Add squash cubes and stir to coat with spices.

5. Pour in chicken stock, bring to boil.

6. Reduce heat and simmer 20-25 minutes until squash is tender.

7. Let cool slightly before blending until smooth.

8. Return to pot, stir in cream.

9. Simmer additional 5 minutes.

10. Adjust seasonings to taste.

11. Top with crispy bacon bits.

12. Garnish with pepitas, chives, and a swirl of crème fraîche.

Dip your spoon into this Smokey Butternut Squash Soup and watch as steam rises from its silky, orange surface! Each spoonful delivers the perfect balance of sweet squash and smoky spice, creating a warming bowl of autumn comfort that’ll chase away any chill. Whether you’re starting a special dinner or just craving something soul-warming, this soup proves that a little smoke makes everything better. So grab that squash, cook up that bacon, and get ready to create a bowl of pure comfort that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!