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When the temperature drops or the rain begins to fall, there's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of soup to warm the soul. Soups offer a versatile canvas for flavors, textures, and health benefits, making them a perfect choice for any season. Among the myriad of soup options available, one recipe stands out for its creamy richness and nutritional prowess: Velvety Cheddar Cauliflower Bliss Soup. This dish brings together the subtle earthiness of cauliflower and the indulgent creaminess of cheddar cheese, creating a perfect blend of comfort and health.

Creamy Cheddar Cauliflower Soup

Warm up with a bowl of Velvety Cheddar Cauliflower Bliss Soup, a perfect comfort food for chilly days. This creamy, nutritious soup combines subtle cauliflower flavors with the sharpness of cheddar cheese, making it both satisfying and wholesome. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite seasonings and toppings. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty meal or a cozy starter, this recipe is sure to delight.

Ingredients
  

1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped into bite-sized florets

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, low sodium preferred

1 cup whole milk or a creamy alternative (like oat or almond milk for a dairy-free option)

1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated for best melting

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)

Fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden.

    Cook the Cauliflower: Add the chopped cauliflower florets to the pot, mixing well with the sautéed onions and garlic. Allow the mixture to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the cauliflower soften slightly.

      Add Broth: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, making sure the cauliflower is fully covered in liquid. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for approximately 20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is very tender.

        Blend the Soup: Once the cauliflower is tender, carefully use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. If you do not have an immersion blender, allow the soup to cool slightly, then transfer it in batches to a regular blender. Blend until smooth and return to the pot.

          Make it Creamy: Stir in the whole milk and the grated sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is luxuriously creamy. If you prefer a thinner soup, gradually add more broth or milk until you achieve your desired consistency.

            Season: Taste the soup and add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. If you like, incorporate the smoked paprika for a hint of depth and flavor.

              Serve: Ladle the velvety cheddar cauliflower soup into warm bowls. Garnish each serving with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Enjoy every warm, comforting spoonful!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 servings