Butternut Squash Bisque

I love serving it on chilly evenings, right alongside a slice of crusty bread. If you're as obsessed with fall flavors as I am, you might also love my Butternut Squash Carrot Soup or Air Fryer Roasted Acorn Squash.

The ingredients

Here's what you'll need to bring this fall favorite to life:

• Butternut squash - naturally sweet, creamy, and the star of the show.
• Pears - add a delicate fruity note that makes this bisque stand out. Apples work too.
• Potatoes - help create that velvety, hearty texture.
• Onions - the flavor base for just about any good soup.
• Olive oil - for sautéing the onion and spices.
• Maple syrup - just a touch to enhance the squash's sweetness.
• Turmeric & curry powder - warm, earthy spices that make every spoonful irresistible.
• Vegetable broth - the flavorful base.
• Coconut milk - adds a silky, creamy finish.
• Salt & pepper - to round everything out.

See recipe card for quantities

Instructions for the Butternut Squash Bisque

Step 1. Sauté the aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion along with the turmeric and curry powder. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the onion softens and the spices are fragrant.

Step 2. Build the flavor base
Stir in the maple syrup, then add the broth, squash, potatoes, and pears. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, until the squash and potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 3. Blend until smooth
Using an immersion blender (or working in batches with a regular blender), blend the soup until creamy. This is what gives it that luxurious "bisque" texture.

Step 4. Make it silky
Stir in the coconut milk and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro if you like.

Tips for Success

• Roast the squash before adding it to the pot if you want an even deeper, caramelized flavor.
• Don't skip the pears! They add a subtle sweetness that really sets this recipe apart.
• If using a countertop blender, be careful with hot soup, blend in batches and don't overfill.
• Make it ahead: this bisque tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to mingle.

Variations

• Apple twist: Swap pears with apples for a more traditional take.
• Extra creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream along with the coconut milk.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes when you sauté the onion.
• Lighter version: Use light coconut milk or just broth for a thinner consistency.

What to Serve With Butternut Squash Bisque

• Crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.
• A fresh green salad to keep things light.
• Hummus and crackers to make it a complete meal.

Storage

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.

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