A creamy, comforting blend of oven-roasted cauliflower, sharp cheddar cheese, and roasted garlic—this velvety soup is rich, savory, and perfect for dipping with crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Roasted Cauliflower Cheddar Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that transforms humble ingredients into a gourmet experience. Roasting the cauliflower and garlic adds depth and caramelization, while sharp cheddar brings a satisfying richness. It’s an ideal soup for chilly evenings, easy to prepare, and wonderfully versatile. Whether served as a main course or a starter, this soup is sure to warm you from the inside out.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

large head cauliflower, cut into florets
olive oil
salt and pepper
unsalted butter
small onion, diced
garlic cloves, peeled
vegetable broth
whole milk
sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
ground nutmeg (optional)
chopped green onions and extra cheese, for garnish

directions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss cauliflower florets and garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast for 25–30 minutes until golden and tender, stirring halfway through for even roasting.
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the roasted cauliflower and garlic to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer it to a blender in batches.
Stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and nutmeg if using. Simmer gently until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and extra shredded cheddar cheese. Add crusty bread on the side for dipping if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes

Variations

Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk and vegan cheddar cheese. Replace butter with olive oil.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño for heat.
Smoky Flavor: Mix in a touch of smoked paprika or roasted red pepper.
Protein Boost: Add white beans or chickpeas when blending for a heartier soup.
Thicker Texture: Use less broth or add a cooked potato before blending for a denser consistency.

storage/reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring often. If the soup thickens in the fridge, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it. You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.

What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar offers the best flavor, but you can also use mild cheddar or a mix of cheeses like Gruyère and Parmesan.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup stores well and can be made a day or two in advance.

Do I need to roast the garlic with the cauliflower?

Yes, roasting enhances the flavor and makes the garlic sweet and mellow.

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Absolutely. Chicken broth adds a richer flavor if you don’t need the soup to be vegetarian.

What if I don’t have an immersion blender?

You can use a regular blender—just let the soup cool slightly before blending and work in batches.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, carrots or parsnips work well with cauliflower and can be roasted together.

How can I make it more filling?

Serve with grilled cheese sandwiches or stir in some cooked quinoa or rice.

Will the cheese curdle if added to hot soup?

No, as long as you add the cheese after blending and simmer gently, it will melt smoothly without curdling.

Conclusion

Roasted Cauliflower Cheddar Soup is the perfect fusion of rustic comfort and gourmet flair. With its rich, velvety texture and deep roasted flavors, it’s a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing starter, this soup delivers warmth and flavor in every spoonful.