This Cheddar Cauliflower Soup is creamy and tasty, packed with rich cheese and healthy cauliflower. It’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day!
I love how simple it is to make this soup—you just blend the veggies and cheese together! Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get more veggies in your day. 🥦🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: This is the star ingredient, providing a creamy texture when blended. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, you can use broccoli instead. It works out well and is a nice twist!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the soup a robust flavor. However, if you want something creamier, consider substituting with a mild cheddar or even Gruyère for a different taste.
Bacon: It adds a savory crunch. If you’re aiming for a vegetarian version, just leave it out or top with crispy fried onions for some extra texture.
Milk/Cream: Whole milk is a great choice for creaminess, but you can use low-fat milk or plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk). Just keep in mind that it might change the overall richness of the soup.
How Do I Achieve a Creamy Consistency in My Soup?
Getting the right creaminess is all about properly blending the soup. After cooking the cauliflower, you want to break it down into a smooth mixture.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot, which saves time. If you use a regular blender, do it in batches and be cautious with hot liquids.
- Be careful not to over-puree; leaving some cauliflower chunks gives a lovely texture. Aim for a smooth consistency while retaining a bit of chunkiness!
Add the milk or cream slowly after blending to reach your desired richness. A final stir in the cheese will give you that luscious result!
Cheddar Cauliflower Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for garnish)
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh chives, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cheddar Cauliflower Soup takes approximately 10 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes before diving into a warm, comforting bowl of goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 4–5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant—your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
2. Create the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir it well, cooking for about 1–2 minutes. This roux will thicken your soup, giving it that lovely creamy texture we all love.
3. Add the Broth and Cauliflower:
Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, making sure no lumps form. Once it’s smooth, add the cauliflower florets. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15–20 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender.
4. Blend it Up:
Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup to your desired consistency; leaving some cauliflower pieces gives a nice texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer half of the soup to a blender, puree it, and then mix it back into the pot.
5. Mix in Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the milk or heavy cream and the shredded cheddar cheese until everything is melted and smooth. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
6. Add Bacon and Finish:
Stir in the chopped bacon pieces, reserving some to sprinkle on top later for that crunchy goodness.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chopped chives. A sprinkle of black pepper on top adds a finishing touch.
8. Enjoy!
Serve the soup hot with a side of crusty bread for dipping. This hearty, creamy Cheddar Cauliflower Soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Now, enjoy this comforting bowl on a cool day! Perfect for cozy evenings with loved ones. 🥣
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower Instead?
Absolutely! Frozen cauliflower works well to save some prep time. Just add it directly to the pot with the broth and simmer until tender; it may take a few extra minutes compared to fresh cauliflower.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
To make this soup vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or oil, use vegetable broth, and replace the dairy with coconut milk or almond milk. You can also use a vegan cheddar cheese alternative!
Can I Prepare This Soup in Advance?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time! Just let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to loosen it up.
What Can I Serve with My Cheddar Cauliflower Soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh salad. Feel free to top it with more shredded cheese or crispy croutons for added texture!
