Description
A rich and creamy Cheddar Cauliflower and Roasted Garlic Soup with deep, roasted flavors and a velvety texture. Perfect for cozy nights and easy to make at home.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 whole garlic bulb
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter option)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Roast the Garlic
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the garlic bulb to expose cloves, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35-40 minutes until soft and golden. Allow to cool, then squeeze out cloves. - Cook the Vegetables
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add cauliflower florets and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Simmer the Soup
Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and let cook for 15-20 minutes, or until cauliflower is tender. - Blend Until Smooth
Using an immersion blender (or transferring in batches to a stand blender), puree soup until smooth and creamy. - Add the Cream and Cheese
Stir in roasted garlic, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Gradually add shredded cheddar, stirring constantly until melted and incorporated. - Season and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley.
Notes
- Make it vegetarian – Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Make it gluten-free – Naturally gluten-free; ensure broth ingredients are compliant.
- Add extra protein – Stir in shredded chicken or crispy bacon bits.
- Spice it up – Increase cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes.
- Thicken it up – Add a small potato while cooking cauliflower.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: soup
- Method: Stovetop, roasting, blending
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cheddar cauliflower soup, roasted garlic soup, creamy cauliflower soup, easy soup recipe, comforting soup