Picture this: a steaming bowl of rich, creamy chowder filled with the earthy sweetness of winter squash, the crisp saltiness of bacon, and a touch of fresh herbs. This Winter Squash Chowder is the ultimate comfort food to warm your soul on a brisk autumn or winter evening.
This chowder combines the best of seasonal ingredients—tender chunks of acorn squash, butternut squash, and pumpkin—cooked to perfection in a creamy, flavorful broth. The addition of fresh sage and parsley elevates the dish, making every spoonful a delightful blend of savory and sweet.
Perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends, this chowder is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and heartwarming appeal. Let’s dive into this bowl of comfort!
Ingredients:
- 2 slices bacon: Adds a crispy, salty kick and rich flavor to the chowder.
- 1 cup leeks, sliced: A mild, onion-like base that complements the sweetness of the squash.
- 1 cup red potatoes, peeled and cubed: Adds heartiness and texture to the chowder.
- 1 cup acorn squash, cubed: Provides a nutty, earthy sweetness.
- 1 cup butternut squash, cubed: Brings a rich, creamy texture and natural sweetness.
- 1 cup pumpkin, cubed: Adds a deep, flavorful touch that enhances the chowder.
- 2 (14 oz.) cans fat-free chicken broth: Forms the base of the chowder, adding depth to the flavors.
- 1 cup cream: For a luxurious, creamy consistency.
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped: Adds a warm, herby note that pairs perfectly with the squash.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with a touch of freshness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of warmth and spice.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional): For a subtle, caramel-like sweetness that balances the savory elements.
Instructions:
- Cook the Bacon: In a large stockpot over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crisp and golden. Remove the bacon from the pot, crumble it, and set it aside. The bacon drippings left in the pot will add a delicious depth of flavor to the chowder.
- Sauté the Leeks: Add the sliced leeks to the pot with the bacon drippings. Sauté until the leeks are soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen with a savory, mouthwatering scent.
- Add the Vegetables: Stir in the cubed red potatoes, acorn squash, butternut squash, and pumpkin. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to start caramelizing and releasing their natural sweetness.
- Simmer the Chowder: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the chowder simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish with Cream and Herbs: Stir in the cream, chopped sage, and parsley. Season with salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste. If you prefer a hint of sweetness, add the brown sugar and mix well.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chowder into bowls and top with the crumbled bacon. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping or a crisp side salad for a complete meal. Every spoonful will be a comforting reminder of why this chowder is a must-make during the colder months.
Make this Winter Squash Chowder to bring warmth and happiness to your table. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests at your next dinner gathering. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Winter Squash Chowder: A Cozy and Hearty Comfort for Chilly Days
Picture this: a steaming bowl of rich, creamy chowder filled with the earthy sweetness of winter squash, the crisp saltiness of bacon, and a touch of fresh herbs. This Winter Squash Chowder is the ultimate comfort food to warm your soul on a brisk autumn or winter evening.This chowder combines the best of seasonal ingredients—tender chunks of acorn squash, butternut squash, and pumpkin—cooked to perfection in a creamy, flavorful broth. The addition of fresh sage and parsley elevates the dish, making every spoonful a delightful blend of savory and sweet.Perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends, this chowder is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and heartwarming appeal. Let’s dive into this bowl of comfort!
Ingredients
- 2 slices bacon: Adds a crispy salty kick and rich flavor to the chowder.
- 1 cup leeks sliced: A mild, onion-like base that complements the sweetness of the squash.
- 1 cup red potatoes peeled and cubed: Adds heartiness and texture to the chowder.
- 1 cup acorn squash cubed: Provides a nutty, earthy sweetness.
- 1 cup butternut squash cubed: Brings a rich, creamy texture and natural sweetness.
- 1 cup pumpkin cubed: Adds a deep, flavorful touch that enhances the chowder.
- 2 14 oz. cans fat-free chicken broth: Forms the base of the chowder, adding depth to the flavors.
- 1 cup cream: For a luxurious creamy consistency.
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage chopped: Adds a warm, herby note that pairs perfectly with the squash.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped: Brightens the dish with a touch of freshness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of warmth and spice.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar optional: For a subtle, caramel-like sweetness that balances the savory elements.
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: In a large stockpot over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crisp and golden. Remove the bacon from the pot, crumble it, and set it aside. The bacon drippings left in the pot will add a delicious depth of flavor to the chowder.
- Sauté the Leeks: Add the sliced leeks to the pot with the bacon drippings. Sauté until the leeks are soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen with a savory, mouthwatering scent.
- Add the Vegetables: Stir in the cubed red potatoes, acorn squash, butternut squash, and pumpkin. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to start caramelizing and releasing their natural sweetness.
- Simmer the Chowder: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the chowder simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish with Cream and Herbs: Stir in the cream, chopped sage, and parsley. Season with salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste. If you prefer a hint of sweetness, add the brown sugar and mix well.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chowder into bowls and top with the crumbled bacon. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping or a crisp side salad for a complete meal. Every spoonful will be a comforting reminder of why this chowder is a must-make during the colder months.
Notes
Make this Winter Squash Chowder to bring warmth and happiness to your table. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests at your next dinner gathering. Enjoy every comforting bite!