The Story & Intro
Hi, I’m Marilyn from the sunny island of Crete, and today I’m sharing one of my favorite cozy dishes: Loaded Cauliflower Soup. This recipe reminds me of chilly winter evenings when I’d curl up in the kitchen, sipping a warm bowl while the wind blew outside. My grandmother loved using simple vegetables to create hearty meals, and cauliflower was often her star ingredient.
What I love about Loaded Cauliflower Soup is how creamy and indulgent it feels without needing heavy cream. The flavors of roasted cauliflower, sautéed onions, garlic, and a touch of cheese come together in a way that’s comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this soup is a perfect way to enjoy healthy comfort food at home.
Every time I serve this soup to friends, they’re amazed at how rich and flavorful it tastes, especially since it’s so easy to make. Loaded Cauliflower Soup is versatile you can keep it vegetarian or add bacon for extra indulgence. It’s simple, nourishing, and brings a sense of warmth and togetherness to the table.
Ingredients 📝
- 1 large head of cauliflower, chopped into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped chives for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions 🍳
- Roast the cauliflower: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cauliflower florets in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
- Combine and simmer: Add roasted cauliflower and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Blend the soup: Use an immersion blender (or regular blender in batches) to puree until smooth and creamy.
- Add milk & cheese: Stir in milk and cheddar cheese, cooking until the cheese melts. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Top with crumbled bacon (if using) and chopped chives. Enjoy hot!
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
Serve Loaded Cauliflower Soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a light green salad. It’s perfect as a comforting lunch or a cozy dinner starter.
Tips for Perfect Loaded Cauliflower Soup 🕒
TIME ⏱️
Prep: 10 minutes | Roast & Cook: 35 minutes | Total: 45 minutes
INGREDIENTS 🛒
Use fresh cauliflower for the best flavor. Cheddar cheese adds creaminess, but you can substitute with Parmesan or Gruyère.
INSTRUCTION 👩🍳
For an extra roasted flavor, sprinkle paprika on the cauliflower before roasting.
NOTE 💡
This soup stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 2 months.
NUTRITION 🥗
Per serving:
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 14g
- Fat: 15g
Conclusion
Loaded Cauliflower Soup is creamy, comforting, and easy to make, perfect for chilly days or a cozy evening at home. This soup is not just about taste it’s about warmth, memories, and the joy of sharing simple, nourishing food with loved ones. Try it yourself and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Short 100-Word Version
Enjoy a creamy, comforting bowl of Loaded Cauliflower Soup! Roast cauliflower with olive oil, then sauté onions and garlic. Combine with broth, simmer, and blend until smooth. Stir in milk and cheddar cheese for extra richness, then season with salt and pepper. Top with crumbled bacon and fresh chives if desired. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Quick, healthy, and indulgent, it’s a perfect lunch or dinner starter. Loaded Cauliflower Soup brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of comfort to your table.