A wonderful twist on the classic cheese soup prepared with cauliflower, bacon, cheddar cheese, and a splash of cream. This Cauliflower Cheese Soup will have everyone coming back for seconds!

 

Easy Cauliflower Cheese Soup

In the realm of hearty and comforting soups, my Cauliflower Cheese Soup stands out as the tastiest fusion of flavors and textures! It’s a cheesy, creamy, warm soup that balances taste and nutrition. Similar to my Broccoli Cheese Soup, it’s prepared with tender cauliflower, crisp bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a velvety touch of cream, and it is a testament to the powers of everyday, simple ingredients. This cauliflower soup also caters to various dietary preferences, making it a universal favorite. Whether you’re adhering to low carb, keto, or gluten-free diets, or simply looking for an excellent meal that warms the soul, this soup will deliver. And with its rich and creamy texture, it beckons both the occasional soup enthusiast and the most avid soup lover to indulge in bowl after bowl.

More importantly, this is a good solid meal in and of itself. I am full and done after one bowl. Most importantly? It reheats beautifully, making a perfect lunch option throughout the week. Additionally, it’s a great make-ahead soup ideal for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Cauliflower Soup

• Rich and creamy texture. The combination of heavy cream and cheddar cheese gives this soup a delicious and smooth consistency
• Loaded with vegetables and cheese. A blend of cauliflower, carrots, and onions results in a nutritious blend, while the cheese offers a comforting indulgence.
• Great for meal prepping. Its flavors meld over time, ensuring the soup tastes even better the next day, and it reheats well, too.
• Excellent for busy weeknights or as a make-ahead dish. Its easy preparation makes it a time-saver for those hectic evenings, and you can cook it ahead and simply reheat it when needed.
• Satisfying as a standalone meal or paired as a starter. It’s filling enough to serve as the main course yet elegant enough to kickstart a multi-course dinner.

How To Make Cauliflower Cheese Soup

Packed with cheesy flavor and a silky texture, this delicious and creamy Cauliflower Cheese Soup served as a starter, lunch, or dinner, is a definite crowd-pleaser. For complete information, please scroll down the page to the recipe card below.

Ingredients For Cauliflower Cheese Soup

• Butter: Adds richness and aids in sautéing vegetables.
• Bacon: Provides savory flavor and crispy texture.
• Yellow onion: Gives aromatic depth to the soup base.
• Large carrots: Adds sweetness and color.
• Cauliflower Florets: The main vegetable, offering volume and creamy texture when blended.
• Garlic: Enhances flavor with its aromatic pungency.
• Dried thyme: Adds an herbal flavor to the soup.
• Chili powder: Adds a hint of spiciness.
• Fresh parsley: Introduces freshness and color contrast.
• Salt and fresh ground pepper: Seasonings to enhance overall taste.
• Low sodium chicken broth: The liquid base, adding depth and flavor.
• Heavy cream: Gives a creamy consistency to the soup.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the soup, adding cheesy flavor and creaminess.
• Ground nutmeg: Introduces a subtle, warm spice.

Directions

1. First, we will cut up our veggies, including carrots, onions, and cauliflower. Chopped fresh parsley will also join the fun.
2. Next, add some diced bacon to a Dutch oven and cook for a couple of minutes; remove the bacon and set aside.
3. Melt some butter with the bacon fat in the pot and add onions and carrots; cook for 2 minutes before adding in the cauliflower, garlic, thyme, chili powder, and parsley. Cook and mix for an additional 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the chicken broth, boil, stir in cream, and lower heat to a simmer; simmer for 12 to 15 minutes or until veggies are tender, stirring occasionally.
5. Grab a handheld blender or transfer the soup, in batches, to a blender; blend until creamy and smooth.
6. Pour it back into the soup pot; increase heat to medium, add in a handful of cheese and some nutmeg, then stir until melted.
7. Garnish with previously prepared bacon and chives; serve.

Tips And Variations For Making Cauliflower Cheese Soup

• Roast the Cauliflower: For a deeper flavor, consider roasting the cauliflower florets in the oven until they are golden brown before adding them to the soup.
• Consistency: Adjust the soup’s thickness by adding more or less broth. You can adjust the amount of heavy cream for an even creamier texture.
• Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or smoked gouda.
• Fresh Herbs: Use fresh thyme instead of dried for a brighter, more robust herby flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken, and omit the bacon.
• Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or some red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• Additional Veggies: Incorporate diced celery or bell peppers for more depth and a variation in texture.
• Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken to make the soup even more filling.

What To Serve With Cauliflower Soup

• Salad: Since this is a filling, hearty soup, I suggest pairing it with a simple salad like, Avocado Feta Kale Salad or a Tomato Salad with Sweet Onions.
• Protein: If you’re anything like my other half, you are probably looking for a side of Oven Grilled Steak or a big Ham and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve it with vegetables like my roasted Brussels sprouts, roasted green beans with squash and tomatoes, or this delicious oven roasted asparagus.
• Quiche: A slice of this spinach quiche complements the soup’s creamy texture.

How To Store Leftovers

• To Refrigerate: Transfer cooled soup to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a perfect option for a quick lunch.
• To Freeze: Let the soup cool completely and transfer it to large freezer bags. Keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To Reheat: Defrost in the fridge overnight, then add the soup to a saucepan and reheat over medium heat. Add water, broth, or cream, a few tablespoons at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

More Soup Recipes

• Apple and Cheddar Cheese Soup
• Beer and Cheddar Cheese Soup
• Spinach Tortellini Tomato Soup
• Slow Cooker French Onion Soup
• Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
• Slow Cooker Creamy Cauliflower Soup

ENJOY!