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Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower and Garlic
- Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roasting the cauliflower and garlic enhances their natural sweetness and adds a deep, smoky flavor to the soup. - Prepare the Cauliflower and Garlic:
Place the cauliflower florets on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Place the whole garlic head (or garlic cloves) on the baking sheet, with the skin still on. You can drizzle a little olive oil over the garlic as well. - Roast:
Roast the cauliflower and garlic in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender, and the garlic is soft and caramelized. Stir the cauliflower halfway through the roasting time to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
- Sauté the Onion:
While the cauliflower and garlic are roasting, heat the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This will build a savory base for your soup. - Add the Broth:
Once the onion is soft, add the vegetable broth (or chicken broth) and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
- Combine Roasted Cauliflower and Garlic:
Once the cauliflower and garlic have finished roasting, remove them from the oven. Squeeze the roasted garlic out of its skins and add it to the pot with the sautéed onions. - Puree the Soup:
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a stand blender in batches. Once the soup is fully blended, return it to the pot. - Add Creaminess:
If you’d like a richer, creamier soup, stir in the milk or heavy cream at this point. For a slightly lighter version, you can skip the cream or use a lower-fat option like half-and-half. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
- Stir in the Cheddar Cheese:
Turn the heat down to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese a little at a time, stirring until melted and fully incorporated. The cheese will add both creaminess and a delicious sharp flavor to the soup. - Add Herbs and Spices:
Stir in thyme, nutmeg, and any additional seasonings you like. Let the soup simmer on low for another 5-10 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of green onions, or a drizzle of cream or olive oil for added richness. You can also top with a pinch of fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color. - Enjoy:
Serve your soup with a side of crusty bread, a light salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Roasted Garlic Cheddar Cauliflower Soup
- Roast for Maximum Flavor: Roasting the cauliflower and garlic brings out their natural sweetness and deepens the flavor. Make sure to let the cauliflower get nicely golden for the best results.
- Blending Options: If you like a little texture in your soup, blend only part of the cauliflower and leave some chunks for a heartier feel. Or, for a super smooth texture, blend everything thoroughly.
- Cheese Variations: While sharp cheddar is ideal for this soup, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère for a nutty flavor or Parmesan for added richness.
- Make It Ahead: This soup actually improves in flavor as it sits, making it a great option for meal prep. You can make a big batch ahead of time, store it in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently when ready to serve.
- Adjust the Creaminess: For a lighter soup, use less cream or opt for a dairy-free version by substituting with coconut milk or almond milk. You can also thicken the soup naturally by adding more cauliflower.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This Roasted Garlic Cheddar Cauliflower Soup is the ultimate combination of comfort and flavor. The roasted cauliflower provides a deep, slightly sweet base that is enhanced by the mellow caramelized garlic. The cheddar cheese adds a creamy, savory richness that takes the soup to the next level.
It’s a nutritious, flavorful, and filling meal that feels indulgent but is packed with good-for-you ingredients. Plus, with its low-carb profile, it’s perfect for those following keto or looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake without compromising on taste.
Whether you’re enjoying a quiet dinner at home or serving it at a gathering, this soup is sure to impress. Try it out and experience the joy of a creamy, comforting bowl of goodness that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious.
Conclusion
Roasted Garlic Cheddar Cauliflower Soup is a perfect dish to warm up on cold days, offering a rich, creamy texture and incredible flavors. With its combination of roasted cauliflower, garlic, and sharp cheddar cheese, this soup is a healthy and indulgent treat for your taste buds. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, cozy weekends, or even as a comforting starter at your next dinner party. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be able to enjoy a bowl of comfort in no time.
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