- 1 butternut squash, peeled, cut in half, seeded, and cubed
- 2 leeks, white part only, cleaned and chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups well-seasoned chicken stock
- 2 cups freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
- ½ cup heavy cream, optional
- Sage leaves for garnish
- Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling, optional
- Place the squash, leeks, carrots, and onion in a saucepan. Add the butter and salt, cover, and cook over low heat until the vegetables start to soften, 10 to 15 minutes. Add the chicken stock, bring to a simmer, and cook, covered, until the vegetables are soft, about 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- Using a tablespoon, drop about 24 small mounds of the cheese onto a nonstick baking sheet. Place in the oven and bake until the cheese melts and forms lacy crisps. Remove from the oven and cool. Set aside.
- When the vegetables are soft, cool briefly, then puree them, along with the stock, in a blender or food processor in two batches. Return the puree to the saucepan and bring to a simmer. Season with salt to taste. Add the heavy cream, if using, and heat through. Serve in bowls or mugs, each garnished with Parmesan crisps and a sage leaf. If you like, drizzle the surface of the soup with olive oil.