This Creamy Cheddar Cauliflower Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days or when you’re in the mood for something warm and filling. The combination of tender cauliflower, shredded carrots, and celery creates a nutritious base, while the rich cheddar cheese adds creaminess and depth of flavor. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation process, this soup is a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch. It’s versatile too—whether you want to keep it vegetarian or enhance it with chicken broth, this soup is both satisfying and delicious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• Cauliflower – 1 medium head, broken into florets
• Carrot – 1 medium, shredded
• Celery – ¼ cup, chopped
• Water – 2½ cups
• Chicken bouillon – 2 teaspoons (or 1 vegetable bouillon cube for a vegetarian option)
• Butter – 3 tablespoons
• All-purpose flour – 3 tablespoons
• Salt – ¾ teaspoon
• Pepper – ⅛ teaspoon
• Milk – 2 cups (2% milk is recommended)
• Cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Break the Cauliflower into Florets: Start by washing the cauliflower thoroughly and breaking it into bite-sized florets. Set them aside.
2. Shred the Carrot and Chop the Celery: Shred the carrot using a grater and chop the celery into small pieces. These vegetables will add color, texture, and flavor to your soup.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. Simmer the Vegetables: In a large pot, combine the cauliflower florets, shredded carrot, chopped celery, 2½ cups of water, and 2 teaspoons of chicken bouillon (or 1 vegetable bouillon cube). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
2. Set Aside: Once the vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and set it aside. Do not drain the water, as this will become part of the soup’s broth.

Step 3: Make the Roux

1. Melt the Butter: In a separate large saucepan or pot, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the Flour: Once the butter is melted, gradually whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Stir constantly to create a smooth paste, which is called a “roux.” Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to cook through without browning.

Step 4: Add the Milk and Seasonings

1. Slowly Add Milk: Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk, whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
2. Season: Add ¾ teaspoon of salt and ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper to the milk mixture. Stir to combine the seasonings evenly.

Step 5: Combine the Soup

1. Add the Cooked Vegetables: Slowly pour the vegetable mixture (cauliflower, carrot, celery, and water) into the milk mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
2. Heat Through: Allow the soup to cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The soup will thicken as it cooks.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

1. Melt the Cheese: Gradually add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the soup, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth.
2. Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of paprika for added flavor.

Step 7: Serve the Soup

1. Serve Hot: Ladle the creamy cheddar cauliflower soup into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese or fresh herbs like parsley, if desired.

Cooking Tips:

• Blending Option: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup before adding the cheese. This will give the soup a creamy consistency while still retaining some texture from the cauliflower and vegetables.
• Cheese Variations: You can use a combination of cheeses such as sharp cheddar, gouda, or even parmesan to add depth of flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the soup.
• Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of water slightly, or add more flour to the roux. On the other hand, if you want a thinner soup, you can add more milk or water during the cooking process.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this recipe vegetarian, simply replace the chicken bouillon with a vegetable bouillon cube or broth.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
• Freezing: You can freeze this soup, but note that the texture may change slightly due to the milk and cheese. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings):

• Calories: 280-320 kcal
• Protein: 12-14g
• Fat: 18-20g
• Carbohydrates: 15-18g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 8-10g
• Sodium: 600-700mg

This Creamy Cheddar Cauliflower Soup is a nutrient-rich dish, with a good amount of protein and calcium from the cheese and milk, and fiber from the vegetables. The moderate calorie content makes it a hearty but healthy meal option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I make this soup dairy-free? Yes, you can substitute the milk with a dairy-free option such as almond milk or oat milk, and use a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor.

2. Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used in place of fresh. Just add the frozen florets directly to the pot and adjust the cooking time as needed.

3. Can I add other vegetables to this soup? Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or peas to increase the nutrition and variety of the soup. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for any added veggies.

4. How can I make the soup more filling? To make this soup more filling, you can add cooked chicken, bacon bits, or even cooked quinoa or rice. These additions will add extra protein and make the soup heartier.

5. What can I serve with this soup? This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a light side salad. It also works well as a starter to a larger meal.

Conclusion:

This Creamy Cheddar Cauliflower Soup is the perfect comfort food that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. The combination of tender cauliflower, carrots, and celery, along with the rich cheddar cheese, creates a satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a meal on its own or paired with your favorite sides. With simple ingredients and a quick preparation process, this soup is perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a cozy weekend lunch. Whether you enjoy it smooth or chunky, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting warmth of this delightful cheddar cauliflower soup!