Ham Cheese Cauliflower Soup: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Ham Cheese Cauliflower Soup: Prepare to be amazed by this creamy, comforting bowl of goodness that will warm you from the inside out! Forget everything you thought you knew about cauliflower soup because this recipe takes it to a whole new level. We’re not just talking about a bland, watery soup; we’re talking about a rich, flavorful experience that combines the subtle sweetness of cauliflower with the savory saltiness of ham and the irresistible meltiness of cheese.

Cauliflower soup, in its simplest form, has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, often seen as a humble and nourishing dish. But the addition of ham and cheese elevates it to something truly special, transforming it from a simple meal into a culinary delight. Think of it as a sophisticated twist on classic comfort food.

People adore this Ham Cheese Cauliflower Soup for so many reasons. The creamy texture is incredibly satisfying, and the combination of flavors is simply divine. The cauliflower provides a subtle sweetness that’s perfectly balanced by the salty ham and the sharp cheddar cheese. It’s also surprisingly easy to make, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra vegetables without sacrificing flavor. Get ready to experience a soup that’s both comforting and exciting – you won’t be disappointed!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus more for garnish
• 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• Optional: Fresh chives, chopped, for garnish
• Optional: Croutons, for garnish

Preparing the Cauliflower and Aromatics:

1. First things first, let’s get our cauliflower ready. Wash the cauliflower head thoroughly under cold water. Then, using a sharp knife, carefully cut the cauliflower into florets. Try to make them roughly the same size so they cook evenly. Set the florets aside for now.
2. Next, we’ll tackle the aromatics. Peel and chop the onion into small, even pieces. Mince the garlic cloves. I like to use a garlic press for this, but you can also finely chop them with a knife. Having these prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process much smoother.

Sautéing the Aromatics:

1. Now, let’s build some flavor! In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Make sure the pot is large enough to hold all the ingredients later on.
2. Add the chopped onion to the melted butter and cook until it becomes translucent and softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent it from burning. We want the onion to release its sweetness and create a flavorful base for our soup.
3. Add the minced garlic and dried thyme to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The thyme will infuse the butter with a lovely earthy aroma.

Cooking the Soup:

1. Add the cauliflower florets to the pot with the sautéed aromatics. Stir to coat the cauliflower with the butter and onion mixture. This will help to develop the flavor of the cauliflower as it cooks.
2. Pour in the chicken broth. Make sure the broth covers the cauliflower completely. If not, you can add a little more broth or water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is very tender. You should be able to easily pierce the cauliflower with a fork.

Blending the Soup:

1. Once the cauliflower is tender, it’s time to blend the soup. This is where we transform the chunky mixture into a creamy, velvety delight. There are a couple of ways you can do this.
2. Option 1: Immersion Blender: If you have an immersion blender, you can blend the soup directly in the pot. Carefully insert the immersion blender into the soup and blend until smooth. Be sure to keep the blender submerged to avoid splattering hot soup.
3. Option 2: Regular Blender: If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender. However, you’ll need to do this in batches to avoid overflowing the blender. Carefully transfer a portion of the hot soup to the blender, leaving some room at the top. Secure the lid tightly and blend until smooth. Pour the blended soup into a separate bowl and repeat with the remaining soup. Important: When blending hot liquids, it’s a good idea to vent the blender lid slightly to allow steam to escape. You can do this by removing the center cap of the lid and covering the opening with a folded kitchen towel.
4. After blending all the soup, return it to the pot.

Adding the Finishing Touches:

1. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced ham. Heat gently over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. Be careful not to boil the soup after adding the cream, as it can curdle.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the chicken broth and ham may already contain some salt, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Serving and Garnishing:

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese, chopped fresh chives, and croutons, if desired. These garnishes add a nice visual appeal and a burst of flavor and texture to the soup.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy! This Ham Cheese Cauliflower Soup is perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner on a chilly day. It’s also a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables.

Tips and Variations:

• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. You can also add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans for extra protein.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, or potatoes. Just add them to the pot along with the cauliflower and cook until tender.
• Spice it Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option. Use a dairy-free cheddar cheese alternative.
• Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the soup while it’s simmering. Cook for a few minutes until the soup thickens.
• Freezing the Soup: This soup can be frozen for later use. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Leave some headspace in the containers, as the soup will expand when frozen. Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Using Roasted Cauliflower: For a deeper, more complex flavor, try roasting the cauliflower before adding it to the soup. Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly browned. Then, add the roasted cauliflower to the pot with the sautéed aromatics and continue with the recipe as directed.
• Adding Bacon: Crispy bacon bits make a delicious addition to this soup. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it and sprinkle it over the soup before serving.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
• Fat: 25-30g
• Protein: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g

Serving Suggestions:

This Ham Cheese Cauliflower Soup is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides.

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing! The creamy soup and the cheesy sandwich complement each other perfectly.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping into the soup.
• Side Salad: A light and refreshing side salad can balance out the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, make a healthy and flavorful side dish.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerating: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave.

Conclusion:

This Ham Cheese Cauliflower Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm, comforting hug in a bowl, and I truly believe it’s a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal. The creamy texture, the subtle sweetness of the cauliflower, the salty ham, and the sharp cheddar cheese all come together in perfect harmony. It’s the kind of soup that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a good book and forget about the world outside.

But what truly sets this soup apart is its versatility. While it’s fantastic as is, there are so many ways you can customize it to your liking. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky depth of flavor. Or, if you prefer a spicier kick, a dash of cayenne pepper will do the trick. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the ham and add some sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like carrots and parsnips. You could even blend in some roasted garlic for an extra layer of savory goodness.

Serving suggestions are endless! I love to serve this soup with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping – sourdough or a hearty whole wheat would be perfect. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would also complement the richness of the soup beautifully. For a more substantial meal, consider topping it with some crispy bacon bits, chopped chives, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. And if you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese never hurts!

This recipe is also incredibly forgiving, so don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust the ingredients to suit your own taste preferences. If you prefer a thinner soup, simply add more broth. If you like it thicker, you can blend in a portion of the soup before adding the cheese. The possibilities are truly endless!

I’ve made this Ham Cheese Cauliflower Soup countless times, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, a potluck gathering, or even a special occasion. It’s also a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I promise you won’t be disappointed. This soup is not only easy to make, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers is simply divine, and the first spoonful is pure bliss.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe that I can’t wait to hear about your experience. Please, don’t hesitate to try this Ham Cheese Cauliflower Soup. Once you do, come back and share your thoughts in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what you served it with, and what your family and friends thought. I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration, and I value your feedback. Happy cooking! I hope this becomes a staple in your home, just as it has in mine. Enjoy!