This Cheesy Cauliflower Soup is a comforting and creamy dish perfect for chilly days. With tender cauliflower, carrots, and celery, it’s enriched with a rich cheese sauce to create a hearty, flavorful meal. Easy to prepare, it’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, broken into florets
- 1 medium carrot, shredded
- 1/4 cup celery, chopped
- 2-1/2 cups water
- 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon or 1 vegetable bouillon cube
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups 2% milk
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In a Dutch oven, combine the cauliflower, carrot, celery, water, and bouillon. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Do not drain.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, salt, and pepper until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk, bringing the mixture to a boil. Cook and stir for 2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Combine and Serve:
- Reduce the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted. Add the hot pepper sauce if desired. Pour the cheese sauce into the cauliflower mixture, stirring well to combine. Heat through before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Garnish with extra shredded cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley.
- Pair with grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting, hearty meal.
- Top with croutons or bacon bits for added texture and flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup before adding the cheese sauce.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more milk or broth if needed.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, use vegetable bouillon instead of chicken bouillon.
- For extra flavor, sauté the celery and carrot in butter before adding them to the soup.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in Vitamin C: Cauliflower is a great source of Vitamin C, which supports immune health.
- Good Source of Calcium: The milk and cheese provide calcium, which is essential for bone health.
- Low in Carbohydrates: This soup is a good option for those following a lower-carb diet.
- Rich in Fiber: The vegetables add dietary fiber, aiding in digestion.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes, if using vegetable bouillon.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Nut-Free: This recipe does not contain nuts.
- Low-Carb: Naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for a low-carb diet.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 11 g (6 g saturated fat)
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
- Sodium: 616 mg
- Carbohydrates: 10 g (5 g sugars, 2 g fiber)
- Protein: 7 g
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Comforting and Creamy: The combination of cheddar cheese and tender vegetables makes this soup irresistibly creamy and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup is quick and easy to prepare.
- Versatile: Great as a main course or a side dish, and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy flavor and creamy texture.
Conclusion: This Cheesy Cauliflower Soup is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and full of nutrients. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold day or as a quick weeknight dinner, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the delicious warmth it brings.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh? Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used, but fresh will give the best texture and flavor.
- How can I make the soup thicker? Increase the amount of flour in the cheese sauce or blend some of the cooked vegetables before adding the cheese sauce.
- Is there a dairy-free option? Substitute the milk with almond milk and use dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Can I add other vegetables? Yes, broccoli, potatoes, or corn would be great additions to this soup.
- What type of cheddar cheese should I use? Sharp cheddar adds the most flavor, but mild cheddar works well if you prefer a less intense taste.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, it can be made a day ahead and reheated gently before serving.
- How do I make the soup spicier? Increase the amount of hot pepper sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a blend of cheeses can be used for a different flavor.
- Is it necessary to use a Dutch oven? No, any large pot will work just as well.
- Can I make this soup vegan? Yes, use vegetable bouillon, almond milk, and vegan cheese to make it vegan-friendly.