If you’re looking for a warm and comforting bowl of soup that’s both nutritious and delicious, look no further than this Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup. This rich, creamy soup combines the mild taste of cauliflower with the savory depth of roasted garlic, enhanced by the sharp, tangy flavor of cheddar cheese. Perfect for a cozy evening or a healthy meal prep option, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup is a great combination of simple ingredients that work together to create a hearty and satisfying dish. Here’s why it’s a great choice for your next meal:
- Healthy and Nutritious: Cauliflower is a great source of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Paired with garlic, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, this soup provides both flavor and health benefits.
- Comforting and Filling: The creamy texture and rich flavor of cheddar cheese turn this soup into a comforting, filling meal. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you need something warm and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: With a few basic ingredients and a simple method, this soup can be whipped up quickly and is a great option for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer a vegan version, want to add extra spices, or mix in more vegetables, this recipe can easily be adapted to fit your preferences.
Ingredients for Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup
To make this delightful soup, you’ll need:
- 1 medium cauliflower head, cut into florets
- 2 bulbs of garlic, peeled and separated into cloves
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup milk or cream (for a richer soup, use cream)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: chives, additional grated cheddar, or a drizzle of olive oil
How to Make Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup
- Roast the Garlic: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the garlic bulbs on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap them in foil. Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until the garlic becomes soft and fragrant. Once done, set it aside to cool.
- Prepare the Cauliflower: While the garlic is roasting, heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent and softened, about 5 minutes. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
- Add the Roasted Garlic: Once the garlic has cooled, squeeze the cloves out of their skins and add them to the soup. Stir well to incorporate.
- Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender.
- Add Cheese and Milk: Once the soup is smooth, return it to the heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese and milk (or cream). Allow the cheese to melt, creating a velvety, creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar cheese, chives, or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
Tips for the Perfect Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup
- For a Vegan Version: You can easily make this soup dairy-free by omitting the cheddar cheese and using plant-based milk (like almond or coconut milk) along with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add cooked chicken, bacon, or white beans for added protein.
Health Benefits of This Soup
This Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup is a great option for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Cauliflower is high in fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. It’s also rich in vitamins C and K, which promote immune health and support strong bones. Garlic, in addition to being delicious, contains compounds that may help reduce blood pressure and support cardiovascular health.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a fan of creamy soups or looking for a way to sneak in some vegetables, this Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup is a winning choice. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly comforting, and packed with nutrition. The combination of roasted garlic and sharp cheddar makes this soup incredibly flavorful, while the cauliflower gives it a hearty base. It’s a great meal for any day of the week and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next family dinner or dinner party.
Serving and Storage Tips for Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup
Serving Tips:
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: To elevate the flavor and appearance of your soup, consider garnishing with extra grated cheddar cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley. A dollop of sour cream or a splash of cream can also add a velvety touch.
- Pairing Suggestions: This rich soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a light salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete and comforting meal. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
- Serving Temperature: While this soup is delicious both warm and at room temperature, it’s best served piping hot for maximum flavor and comfort.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. You may need to add a little extra milk or broth to adjust the consistency if it thickens after cooling.
- Freezing: This soup can be frozen for later enjoyment. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer-safe zip-top bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stovetop. As with refrigerating, you may need to add some liquid to restore the creamy texture.
- Avoid Freezing with Cheese: If possible, avoid freezing the soup with the cheddar cheese added. Cheese can sometimes change in texture when frozen and may result in a slightly grainy consistency once thawed. For the best results, freeze the soup without the cheese, then stir in freshly grated cheddar when reheating.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup for several meals, keeping it as delicious as when it was first made!
- Can I make this soup dairy-free? Yes, you can easily make this soup dairy-free by using plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and omitting the cheddar cheese. You can substitute the cheese with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
- Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh? Absolutely! Frozen cauliflower works just as well as fresh cauliflower in this recipe. Simply thaw it before using and add it to the soup as you would with fresh cauliflower. It may reduce the cooking time slightly, so keep an eye on it as it simmers.
- How can I make the soup spicier? If you prefer a spicier soup, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce. Stir it in after blending the soup, and taste as you go until you reach your desired heat level.
- How can I make this soup thicker? If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of broth, blend for a longer period to break down the cauliflower more finely, or even add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water. Another option is to add a potato to the soup for extra thickness and creaminess.
Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup
This creamy Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup is a comforting blend of roasted cauliflower, mellow roasted garlic, and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect as a warming lunch or dinner, it’s a delicious way to enjoy hearty flavors with a healthy twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting and Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 bulb of garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Optional Garnish
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Crumbled bacon
Instructions
- Roast the Cauliflower and Garlic:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the cauliflower florets on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cut the top off the garlic bulb to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Place on the baking sheet with the cauliflower.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender and golden, and the garlic is soft and caramelized.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
- Blend the Soup Base:
- Add the roasted cauliflower to the pot. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and add them as well. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully blend in batches in a blender.
- Add the Cream and Cheese:
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheddar cheese, fresh parsley, or crumbled bacon, if desired.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and skip the bacon garnish.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a hint of spice.
- For extra richness, stir in 1 tbsp of butter before serving.