This Roasted Garlic and Cheddar Cauliflower Soup is a velvety, creamy soup that’s packed with deep, savory flavors. The roasted garlic adds sweetness and depth, while the sharp cheddar brings richness, making this a comforting and indulgent soup. Perfect for cozy nights or a hearty lunch, it’s a simple yet flavorful dish that will warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bulb garlic (about 10–12 cloves), peeled
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk (for a lighter version, you can use low-fat milk)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for a subtle flavor boost)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped
- Crumbled crispy bacon (optional, for added crunch and flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Garlic and Cauliflower
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the cauliflower florets and peeled garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the garlic is soft and golden. Stir halfway through for even roasting.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
- While the cauliflower and garlic roast, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and translucent.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Once the cauliflower and garlic are roasted, add them to the pot with the onions.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Simmer for 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender.
- If you prefer a slightly chunky texture, blend the soup to your liking.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream or milk, adjusting the consistency to your liking.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and fully incorporated.
- Season with ground cumin (if using), and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with additional shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley, and crumbled bacon if desired.
Tips for Perfect Roasted Garlic and Cheddar Cauliflower Soup
- Roast for Maximum Flavor: Roasting the garlic and cauliflower brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Use Quality Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese will give the soup a rich, bold flavor.
- Make It Lighter: For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with a bit more broth or a dairy-free cream alternative.
- Add Protein: For added heartiness, stir in cooked chicken or turkey.
Why You’ll Love It
This Roasted Garlic and Cheddar Cauliflower Soup is:
- Creamy and Indulgent: The perfect balance of richness from cheese and cream with a depth of flavor from roasted garlic.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with cauliflower, a low-calorie, nutrient-dense vegetable.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps, with minimal prep required.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable for dietary preferences, whether you want to keep it vegetarian or add in extra proteins.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread or crispy croutons for extra crunch.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the soup.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing contrast.
This Roasted Garlic and Cheddar Cauliflower Soup is rich, creamy, and packed with flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to be a favorite in your recipe collection! 🧄🧀🥦🍲
