Cozy up with this Creamy Cheddar Cauliflower & Roasted Garlic Soup! Rich and satisfying, it’s perfect for chilly days and loaded with flavor.

Introduction

When you’re in need of a warming, comforting bowl of soup, this Creamy Cheddar Cauliflower & Roasted Garlic Soup is just the recipe to try. It’s luxuriously smooth, loaded with cheesy flavor, and infused with the sweet, mellow taste of roasted garlic. Cauliflower adds body and creaminess without being heavy, making this soup rich in flavor but light enough to enjoy anytime. Perfect as a starter, a main, or an accompaniment to a sandwich, this soup is sure to be a family favorite.

With just a few basic ingredients, this soup comes together beautifully and makes a delightful option for lunch or dinner. Roasting the garlic beforehand enhances its flavor, bringing out a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the sharp cheddar. Each spoonful delivers a creamy, cheesy bite with the added depth of garlic, making it ideal for chilly weather or a simple, cozy night at home.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 1 whole head of garlic
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped chives or green onions (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. Roast the garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top of the garlic head, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes until the cloves are soft and golden brown. Let it cool, then squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves.
2. Cook the cauliflower and onion: In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the cauliflower florets and stir for another 5 minutes.
3. Simmer the soup: Add the roasted garlic, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
4. Blend the soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer it to a blender and blend in batches. Return the soup to the pot.
5. Add cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped chives or green onions, if desired.

How to Prepare

This Creamy Cheddar Cauliflower & Roasted Garlic Soup is simple to prepare by first roasting the garlic to develop its deep, rich flavor. Sautéing the onion and cauliflower brings out a gentle sweetness in the vegetables, and blending the soup creates a silky, creamy base. Adding heavy cream and cheddar at the end ensures a smooth, cheesy consistency that’s perfect for serving.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour

Servings

This recipe makes approximately 4-6 servings.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup vegan?
   Yes! Use a dairy-free milk alternative and vegan cheese to make this soup vegan-friendly.
2. What other toppings work well with this soup?
   Crispy bacon, croutons, or even a drizzle of sour cream or hot sauce can elevate the flavors of this soup.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
   Absolutely. Just leave out the cream until reheating, as dairy can separate when frozen. Add the cream once you’ve reheated the soup.
4. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to keep the cheese from separating, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
5. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
   While pre-shredded cheese works, freshly shredded cheddar melts smoother and provides a richer flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Cheddar Cauliflower & Roasted Garlic Soup is the ultimate cozy soup for chilly days. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, thanks to the roasted garlic and sharp cheddar cheese. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish or a side, this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Try it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. Make a batch, savor each spoonful, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this rich and hearty soup!