Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

1 butternut squash (about 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1 inch chunks
1 onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

8 slices bacon, diced
½ teaspoon dried thyme 2½ cups chicken stock, or more, to taste
1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
2 tablespoons chopped chives

METHOD

Preheat oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly oil a baking sheet or coat with non stick spray. Place butternut squash, onion, red bell pepper, and half of the bacon in a single layer onto the prepared baking sheet. Add olive oil and garlic; season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss to combine. Place into oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until butternut squash is tender, stirring at halftime.

Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add bacon and cook until brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Heat a large stock pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add butternut squash mixture and thyme, and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in chicken stock and puree with an immersion blender. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer until slightly thickened, about 5-10 minutes. If the soup is too thick, add more chicken stock as needed until desired consistency is reached. Serve immediately, garnished with remaining bacon, goat cheese, and chives, if desired.

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