As the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to lift your spirits. And when that soup is made with the humble cauliflower, you know it’s going to be good! Cauliflower’s mild flavor and versatile texture make it the perfect base for a wide range of creamy soups. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes that showcase the best of winter’s chill – from spicy and smoky to cheesy and comforting. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fresh or rich and indulgent, we’ve got you covered with our collection of creamy cauliflower soup recipes.
Creamy Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Soup
A rich and comforting soup that combines the nutty flavor of roasted garlic with the tender sweetness of cauliflower, all wrapped up in a creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 4-6 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender and lightly browned.
3. Meanwhile, roast garlic cloves in the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil for 15-20 minutes, until soft and mashed.
4. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion in a little bit of olive oil until translucent. Add roasted garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add broth, roasted cauliflower, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
7. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Cauliflower Soup
This creamy and aromatic soup is a twist on traditional cauliflower soup, infused with the bold flavors of Thailand. With a spicy kick from red curry paste and the richness of coconut milk, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of red curry paste
– 1 can of full-fat coconut milk
– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cauliflower, coconut milk, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cauliflower is tender.
5. Blend soup until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Soup
This comforting soup combines the best of both worlds – the rich flavors of broccoli and cauliflower, with a velvety cheese sauce that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (plus extra for serving)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add broccoli, cauliflower, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with pepper.
5. Serve hot, topped with additional grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curried Cauliflower and Lentil Soup
A creamy and aromatic soup that combines the comforting flavors of lentils, cauliflower, and curry powder.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup of brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon of curry powder
– 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, and curry powder. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
3. Add the cauliflower, lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegan Cream of Cauliflower Soup
This creamy cauliflower soup is a delicious and comforting vegan option that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, velvety texture and subtle sweetness from the roasted cauliflower, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup non-dairy milk (such as soy or almond)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
3. Add roasted cauliflower, vegetable broth, non-dairy milk, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. Blend soup until smooth, adding more broth or milk if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoky Bacon and Cauliflower Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of smoky flavors and tender vegetables, making it a great comfort food for any time of the year. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 6 slices of smoked bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the grease in the pot.
3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cauliflower florets to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
7. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
8. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herbed Cauliflower and Potato Soup
Warm up with this comforting Herbed Cauliflower and Potato Soup recipe, perfect for a cozy night in or a light lunch.
Turmeric-Spiced Cauliflower Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, infused with the vibrant yellow hue of turmeric. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a healthy addition to your lunchbox.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add cauliflower and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cauliflower is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream, if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Cauliflower and Cheddar Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of roasted cauliflower, sharp cheddar cheese, and creamy broth. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion in butter until softened.
5. Add roasted cauliflower, broth, and heavy cream to the pot.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
7. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Cauliflower Soup
Roasted Red Pepper and Cauliflower Soup: A vibrant and flavorful soup that combines the natural sweetness of roasted red peppers with the subtle bitterness of cauliflower, all wrapped up in a creamy and comforting package.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers in a single layer on a baking sheet, skin side up, for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. Peel off the skin, then chop the flesh into pieces.
4. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Add the roasted red pepper, cauliflower florets, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return it to the pot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cauliflower and Leek Soup with Fresh Thyme
A deliciously comforting soup that combines the subtle sweetness of cauliflower, the pungency of leeks, and the freshness of thyme. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a side dish to accompany your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and sliced
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Fresh thyme leaves, to taste (about 1 teaspoon)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the sliced leeks and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
3. Add the cauliflower florets to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and add fresh thyme leaves to taste. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Cauliflower and Mushroom Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of savory flavors and comforting warmth. Made with roasted cauliflower, mushrooms, and aromatics, it’s a delicious and nutritious meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add roasted cauliflower, mushrooms, vegetable broth, and cream to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spicy Cauliflower and Chickpea Soup
This creamy and spicy soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Roasted cauliflower adds a depth of flavor, while chickpeas provide protein and creaminess.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little water until softened. Add cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add roasted cauliflower, chickpeas, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until soup is creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cauliflower and Sweet Potato Soup
A creamy and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the subtle flavor of roasted cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until softened.
4. Add cubed sweet potatoes to the pot and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Add roasted cauliflower, vegetable broth, and heavy cream (if using) to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Blend soup until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Lemon-Dill Cauliflower Soup
Brighten up your day with this refreshing and flavorful soup, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of roasted cauliflower, tangy lemon juice, and fragrant dill creates a delightful and healthy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower with olive oil, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted cauliflower mixture, broth, and cream (if using). Blend until smooth.
3. Stir in lemon juice and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cauliflower and White Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy and savory, featuring roasted cauliflower and cannellini beans as the stars of the show. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and nutritious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cups cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté garlic and onion in remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil until softened.
4. Add roasted cauliflower, cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and heavy cream (if using). Bring to a simmer.
5. Purée soup with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Cauliflower and Kale Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup, packed with the flavors of roasted cauliflower and kale, blended to a creamy perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups of kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
4. Add chopped kale and cook until wilted.
5. Blend roasted cauliflower, cooked kale mixture, and broth until smooth.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half for an extra creamy touch.
7. Serve hot, garnished with croutons or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cauliflower and Carrot Ginger Soup
Warm up with this vibrant and comforting soup that combines the sweetness of carrots, the earthiness of cauliflower, and the zing of fresh ginger. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or as a nourishing pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 inches of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the cauliflower, carrots, and ginger in a little bit of oil until tender, about 10 minutes.
2. Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are very tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
4. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness and creaminess.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this winter with these 18 creamy cauliflower soup recipes! From rich and cheesy to spicy and aromatic, there’s something for everyone. Try “Creamy Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Soup” or “Spicy Thai Coconut Cauliflower Soup” for a flavorful twist. For a comforting classic, go for “Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Soup”. Or, opt for plant-based options like “Vegan Cream of Cauliflower Soup” or “Curried Cauliflower and Lentil Soup”. Whatever your taste, these creamy cauliflower soups are sure to warm your heart and belly this winter.
