Rosemary Butternut Bisque
A creamy, fragrant butternut squash bisque infused with rosemary and orange rind, perfect for cozy gatherings and those who love savory, citrus-flavored soups.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Place the peeled and cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet and roast until tender, about 25 minutes.
- Spray the baking sheet with Pam to prevent sticking.
- Transfer the roasted squash to a large pot and add chicken broth, chopped rosemary, and grated orange rind.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Use a food processor to blend the mixture until smooth.
- Stir in salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and add a splash of heavy cream if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon along with the rosemary. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth. The butternut squash can also be swapped with sweet potatoes for a different twist. Ensure to keep an eye on the roasting time as it may vary depending on the size of your squash cubes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bisque warm, garnished with a drizzle of heavy cream and a sprinkle of fresh rosemary. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad. Consider serving alongside a protein like Mandarin Dijon Chicken Breasts for a complete meal, or enjoy it as a starter to your favorite chicken recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm the bisque on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also freeze the bisque for up to 3 months; just make sure to leave out the cream until reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rosemary Butternut Bisque contains roughly 336 calories, with 5g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (236% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (85% of the Daily Value), and potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 541mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?
Yes, frozen butternut squash can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it completely before roasting or blending. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different than fresh squash, but it will still yield a delicious bisque.
How can I make this bisque spicier?
To add a spicy kick to your bisque, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce during the blending process. You can also top each serving with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for added heat.
Is it possible to make this bisque ahead of time?
Absolutely! This bisque can be made a day or two in advance. Simply prepare the soup, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove and add the cream just before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).