Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butternut Bisque is a creamy, velvety soup that offers a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors. Made with roasted butternut squash, aromatic spices, and a hint of cream, this bisque is the ultimate comfort food. Its smooth texture and rich taste make it perfect for a cozy dinner, special occasions, or as a starter for a festive meal. Easy to make, it’s both nourishing and satisfying, offering a warm, hearty feeling with every spoonful.

Butternut Bisque

Ingredients

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss the cubed butternut squash and chopped onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast the squash and onion for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
Once roasted, transfer the squash and onion to a large pot. Add the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer the mixture to a blender in batches.
After blending, return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream, ground ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
Allow the bisque to simmer for 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Spicy Butternut Bisque: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
Vegan Butternut Bisque: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or any dairy-free cream substitute.
Roasted Garlic: For an extra layer of flavor, roast a few cloves of garlic along with the squash and onions, then blend them into the soup.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or sage while simmering the bisque for a fragrant, herbaceous twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover bisque in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: This bisque can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the bisque thickens too much after freezing, add a little more vegetable broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

How do I peel and cube a butternut squash?

Start by cutting off both ends of the squash. Use a sharp vegetable peeler to remove the skin, then cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Once you have the two halves, cut them into cubes.

Can I use canned butternut squash for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned butternut squash puree for a quicker option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning and liquid to suit the canned version’s consistency.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this bisque can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. It actually tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this Butternut Bisque is naturally gluten-free, as it contains no flour or gluten-based ingredients.

How can I make the bisque thinner or thicker?

If the bisque is too thick, you can add more vegetable broth or cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it longer to reduce the liquid or add more roasted squash to thicken it up.

Can I freeze the Butternut Bisque?

Yes, it freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How can I make the bisque spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a diced jalapeño during the cooking process to give the bisque a spicy kick.

Can I make this bisque without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version, or use any other plant-based cream alternative.

What can I serve with Butternut Bisque?

This bisque pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich.

How do I make the bisque smoother?

For a super smooth texture, use an immersion blender or a high-speed blender to puree the soup completely. You can also strain the bisque for an ultra-refined texture.

Conclusion

Butternut Bisque is a comforting, creamy soup that will warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress at a dinner party, this bisque delivers. With its easy-to-follow recipe, customizable variations, and delicious flavor profile, it’s a dish you’ll keep coming back to all season long. Don’t forget to experiment with different herbs and spices to make it your own!

Jane