Cheesy Cauliflower Soup from thelittlekitchen.net
Cauliflower. It’s a vegetable that often divides opinions. Some, like myself, are completely obsessed with its versatility and mild flavor, finding endless ways to enjoy it – roasted, stir-fried, or simply steamed. Others, however, might not share the same enthusiasm. But even for the cauliflower skeptics, there’s a recipe that might just change their minds: Cheesy Cauliflower Soup, especially when it takes inspiration from the queen of comfort food herself, The Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond.
My own love affair with cauliflower is no secret in my kitchen. Yet, surprisingly, I haven’t shared many cauliflower-centric recipes here before. Perhaps it’s time to rectify that, especially when I stumbled upon a gem within the pages of Ree Drummond’s cookbook, “The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Dinnertime.” Receiving a copy of this cookbook was a delight, as I’ve long admired Ree’s knack for creating approachable and utterly delicious family meals. While this isn’t a formal cookbook review, the inspiration I drew from it for this cheesy cauliflower soup is undeniable.
This recipe isn’t just another cauliflower soup; it’s a creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying bowl of comfort that even won over a certain cauliflower-reluctant member of my household. It’s inspired by the hearty, no-fuss cooking style that Ree Drummond champions, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch on a chilly day. Let’s dive into how to create this Pioneer Woman-esque cheesy cauliflower soup that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Cheesy Cauliflower Soup from thelittlekitchen.net
Crafting Your Pioneer Woman Cauliflower Soup: Step-by-Step
This recipe follows a straightforward approach, much like Ree Drummond’s signature style, focusing on simple techniques and big flavors. We start by building a flavorful base and then layering in the creamy, cheesy goodness that makes this soup irresistible.
Building Flavor with Bacon and Onions
First, the foundation of many great comfort food dishes: bacon. Cook diced bacon in a large pot until crispy. Remove the bacon bits, reserving them for later – they add a delightful crunch and smoky flavor as a garnish. Pour off most of the bacon grease, leaving just enough to sauté the onions.
Cheesy Cauliflower Soup from thelittlekitchen.net
Next, add finely diced onions to the pot and sauté them in the bacon-infused fat until they become translucent and fragrant. This step is crucial for building depth of flavor in your soup.
Adding Cauliflower and Simmering for Tenderness
Now, introduce the star of the show: cauliflower florets. Add them to the pot with the onions, and season with Cajun spice and black pepper. These spices add a subtle warmth and complexity that elevates the soup beyond basic cauliflower flavor.
Cheesy Cauliflower Soup from thelittlekitchen.net
Cook the cauliflower and spices together for a few minutes, allowing the cauliflower to slightly brown and absorb the flavors. Then, pour in low-sodium chicken broth. The broth provides the liquid base for the soup and enhances the savory notes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the cauliflower is tender, which usually takes about 15 minutes.
Creating the Creamy Cheese Sauce
While the cauliflower simmers, prepare the creamy cheese sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux. This roux is the secret to a thick and creamy soup, preventing it from being watery. Cook the roux for about two minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s lightly golden.
Cheesy Cauliflower Soup from thelittlekitchen.net
Gradually whisk in milk (the original recipe calls for whole milk, but almond milk works beautifully as a dairy-free alternative, as I’ve discovered!). Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, which should take about four minutes. Remove from heat and stir in half-and-half for extra richness and a smooth texture.
Blending and Combining for Cheesy Perfection
Once the cauliflower is tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, being cautious with hot liquids.
Cheesy Cauliflower Soup from thelittlekitchen.net
Pour the creamy white sauce into the pureed cauliflower soup. Bring the soup back to a gentle boil for a few minutes to thicken it further and meld the flavors together. Reduce the heat to low and stir in sour cream for tanginess and Monterey Jack cheese for that signature cheesy pull. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and luscious. Finally, stir in fresh minced parsley for a touch of freshness and color.
Cheesy Cauliflower Soup from thelittlekitchen.net
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding salt if desired. Serve hot, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon bits and extra cheese or parsley, if you like.
Adaptations and Serving Suggestions for Your Cauliflower Soup
This Pioneer Woman inspired cheesy cauliflower soup is fantastic as is, but here are a few ideas to customize it to your liking:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Gruyere, or a blend for a more complex flavor profile.
- Vegetable Boost: Roast the cauliflower before adding it to the soup for a deeper, roasted flavor. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or celery along with the onions.
- Toppings Galore: Beyond bacon and parsley, consider toppings like croutons, chives, or a swirl of cream.
- Make it a Meal: Serve with crusty bread for dipping, a side salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches for a complete and satisfying meal.
This cheesy cauliflower soup, with its Pioneer Woman influence, is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to embrace simple, flavorful cooking that brings comfort and joy to the table. Whether you’re a lifelong cauliflower lover or a skeptic, this soup is worth trying. And who knows, it might just convert even the staunchest cauliflower naysayers in your life!
