Name: Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients: 2 medium heads cauliflower, cut into florets and divided; 1 head garlic; 1/2 tbsp plus 1/2 tsp olive oil, divided; 4 Tbsp butter; 1 1/2 C diced carrots; 1 1/2 C medium chopped sweet onion; 1 C diced celery; 1 Tbsp dry parsley; 1 tsp pepper; 1/3 C all-purpose flour; 6 C chicken or vegetable broth; 2 cubes chicken or vegetable bouillon; 1/2 C heavy cream; 3 C shredded sharp white cheddar cheese

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This Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Imagine sipping on a velvety soup that bursts with the rich taste of roasted garlic and the natural sweetness of cauliflower. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! The combination of sharp cheddar cheese adds an indulgent touch that’s hard to resist. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual gathering, this soup is perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making it a breeze to impress your friends or family.

So, tie on that apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! With each step, you’ll learn how to create a deliciously satisfying bowl of soup that not only nourishes but also warms the soul. Let’s jump right into this delightful recipe.

Why This Recipe Works

This Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup achieves a perfect balance of rich, creamy texture and deep flavors. By combining roasted garlic with cauliflower’s natural sweetness, the dish awakens your taste buds and provides an indulgent comfort that satisfies. The interplay between the sharpness of the cheddar and the creamy base creates a delightful experience with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup

This soup is not just macronutrient-rich; it excels in delivering warmth and comfort during any season. With its simple ingredients, you’ll find it easy to whip up while impressing friends and family with a gourmet touch. Beyond its heartwarming qualities, this dish is also versatile enough to fit various dietary needs while remaining utterly delicious.

Ingredients

2 medium heads cauliflower, cut into florets and divided
1 head garlic
1/2 tbsp plus 1/2 tsp olive oil, divided
4 Tbsp butter
1 1/2 C diced carrots
1 1/2 C medium chopped sweet onion
1 C diced celery
1 Tbsp dry parsley
1 tsp pepper
1/3 C all-purpose flour
6 C chicken or vegetable broth
2 cubes chicken or vegetable bouillon
1/2 C heavy cream
3 C shredded sharp white cheddar cheese

Roasting the Garlic and Cauliflower

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400ºF. This step is essential for achieving that beautifully roasted flavor.

Roast the Cauliflower and Garlic

Place remaining cauliflower florets on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Slice the top off the garlic head, drizzle with 1/2 teaspoon olive oil, wrap it in foil, and nestle it on the baking sheet. Roast for about 30 minutes or until soft. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be worth the wait!

Preparing the Veggies

Steam the Cauliflower

While the garlic and cauliflower roast, steam 1 1/2 pounds (approximately 7 cups) of the cauliflower until very soft, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. After steaming, drain any excess water and mash with a potato masher. This gives the soup a smooth, creamy texture.

Sauté the Aromatics

Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced carrots, sweet onion, and diced celery. Cook until the onions become translucent, which takes about 3-5 minutes. This step releases fabulous flavors and builds a solid base for your soup.

Building the Soup

Mix in Seasonings

Stir in the dry parsley, pepper, and all-purpose flour. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the flour to combine well with the vegetables and absorb those delicious buttery flavors.

Combine with Broth

Gradually pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the pot while stirring constantly to avoid clumps. Add the bouillon cubes and the mashed cauliflower next. Let this simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender.

Finish with Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat to medium-low, and stir in the roasted garlic and heavy cream. Heat until the soup is steaming but not boiling. Finally, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted, creating that luxurious, cheesy goodness.

Serving Suggestions

This delicious soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad, making it a complete meal that warms both the belly and the soul. You can also garnish with fresh herbs or crispy croutons for added texture.

Variations

Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or toss in some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor profile. If you follow a vegan diet, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and the butter with vegan butter for a creamy twist without the dairy.

Tips for Success

Ensure the cauliflower is very tender before mashing to achieve a creamier consistency.
Avoid boiling the soup after adding cream to prevent curdling, which keeps it smooth.
For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary that brighten the dish.

Storage Tips

Let the soup cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It lasts in the fridge for 3-5 days, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. When ready to reheat, do so slowly on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to regain its lovely creamy texture.

Pairing Ideas

Serve this soup alongside a hearty grilled cheese sandwich or top it with crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor. You can’t go wrong with classic comfort food pairings!

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. It only gets better over time!

2. Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Freeze in portion sizes for easy reheating later, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish even on busy days.

3. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Coconut cream or cashew cream are excellent dairy-free alternatives, offering rich creaminess without the dairy.

4. How can I enhance the flavor of the soup?
Try adding fresh herbs or spices like thyme, rosemary, or cayenne for an extra flavor boost that lifts the entire dish.

5. Can I use a different cheese?
Feel free to substitute cheddar with gouda or Monterey Jack for a different taste profile that still complements the soup beautifully.

This Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it the perfect recipe for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it invites you to experience the comforting embrace of a warm bowl of soup, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying all to yourself. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in this heartwarming dish.