Warm, creamy, and irresistibly comforting, cheesy cauliflower soup quickly became a favorite for my family during chilly nights. With a delightful combination of flavors and a velvety texture, it’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a cozy hug with every spoonful. This soup is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, showcasing the humble cauliflower in a new and exciting way.
What sets this soup apart is how easy it is to prepare. The marriage of tender cauliflower, sautéed onions, and rich cheese creates a savory delight that’s both nutritious and satisfying. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a hearty dish without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this cheesy cauliflower soup comes together in no time and is sure to impress.
Why you’ll love this
- Quick and easy to make.
- Utterly comforting and delicious.
- Versatile: can be served as a main or side.
- A fantastic way to sneak in veggies.
- Great for meal prepping or freezing.
"Tastes incredible and so simple to make."
How this recipe comes together
Making this cheesy cauliflower soup is a straightforward process. It begins by sautéing aromatics, then adding in the cauliflower and broth. After simmering, all it takes is a quick blend to achieve that sought-after smoothness. Finally, mixing in cream and cheese brings everything together for a rich and hearty soup you can serve right away.
What you’ll need for cheesy cauliflower soup
- 1 head of cauliflower, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or butter for cooking
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower works best, but frozen can also be used if you’re in a pinch.
- Broth: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or chicken broth for extra flavor.
- Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses for a unique twist.
- Cream: Heavy cream lends a luxuriously rich texture, but you can substitute with milk for a lighter version.
Step-by-step instructions
To prepare this cheesy cauliflower soup, follow these steps for a bowl of delightful warmth:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add chopped cauliflower and broth; bring everything to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until cauliflower is tender, about 15 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is heated through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Helpful cooking tips
- Cook the onions and garlic until they are translucent to enhance their sweetness.
- When blending, be careful to not over-blend; a little texture adds character to the soup.
- If you prefer a chunkier soup, hold back some cauliflower before blending and add it back in after.
- Feel free to add some spices like paprika or nutmeg for an additional flavor twist.
Best ways to enjoy it
This cheesy cauliflower soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For added texture, top it with crispy bacon bits or croutons. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley can elevate the presentation and add a fresh note to each bowl.
How to store & freeze
Leftover cheesy cauliflower soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
If your soup turns out too thick, you can add more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. For bland flavors, season with additional salt, pepper, or spices. If the soup is too thin, allow it to simmer longer to reduce, or blend in a little more cheese for thickness. Should your soup become grainy, ensure the cheese is fully melted and combined before serving.
Recipe variations
This soup is versatile enough for some fun variations! You could add cooked bacon or ham for protein, or stir in some roasted garlic for added depth. For a vegetarian twist, toss in some roasted veggies like carrots or bell peppers. If you want a spicier kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Common questions
Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.
How do I make this soup gluten-free?
This recipe is already gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth. Just double-check that your cheese is free from any gluten-containing ingredients.
Can I use frozen cauliflower in this recipe?
Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used instead of fresh. Just add it directly to the pot without thawing, adjusting the cooking time as needed until tender.
What’s the best way to reheat this soup?
The best way to reheat cheesy cauliflower soup is gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. If it thickens too much, stir in a splash of broth until you reach your desired consistency.
How can I enhance the flavors in this soup?
Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, a splash of lemon juice, or even a spoonful of mustard can brighten the flavors and give it an extra dimension.
This cheesy cauliflower soup is a delightful combination of simplicity and flavor, perfect for any culinary level. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to the table!
Cheesy Cauliflower Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add chopped cauliflower and broth; bring everything to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until cauliflower is tender, about 15 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is heated through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!