Description
This Roasted Garlic Cheddar Cauliflower Soup is a nourishing, velvet-textured comfort food that ditches heavy cream and flour for a naturally rich profile. By caramelizing cauliflower and a full head of garlic in the oven, you build deep, nutty flavors that pair perfectly with sharp, tangy cheddar cheese. It is a wholesome, stress-free meal perfect for chilly weeknights, offering a luxurious mouthfeel that satisfies without the heaviness of traditional potato-based soups.
Ingredients
1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 whole head garlic
1 medium yellow onion, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Slice the top off the garlic head, drizzle with the remaining olive oil, wrap in foil, and place on the tray.
Roast the cauliflower and garlic for 25-30 minutes until the cauliflower is golden and charred and the garlic is soft.
In a large pot, sauté the diced onion until translucent.
Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins into the pot and stir in the roasted cauliflower and vegetable broth.
Simmer for 5 minutes then use an immersion blender to purée until smooth.
Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar until completely melted and velvety.
Adjust seasoning with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper before serving garnished with fresh herbs.
Notes
Use a high-quality sharp cheddar for the best flavor profile. For an extra smooth texture, use a high-speed blender instead of an immersion blender. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting and Blending
- Cuisine: Modern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 35mg