Warm, cozy, and utterly comforting, this Cheddar Cauliflower & Roasted Garlic Soup is everything you love about a creamy soup—without the heaviness. It’s rich in flavor thanks to roasted garlic and sharp cheddar, while cauliflower keeps it velvety and wholesome. Perfect for chilly evenings, meal prep lunches, or a soothing side to your favorite sandwich.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Velvety Texture Without Cream – Cauliflower gives you that luxurious feel naturally.
Bold, Savory Flavor – Roasted garlic and sharp cheddar create a deep, satisfying taste.
Lighter by Design – Nourishing ingredients, perfectly portioned.
Easy to Make Ahead – Freezer-friendly and great for batch cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower, chopped (about 4 cups)
- 1 whole head garlic
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup skim milk (or unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free)
- ¾ cup reduced-fat shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: chives, extra cheddar, crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Roast the Garlic
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the garlic head to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30–35 minutes, until golden and soft. Let cool, then squeeze out the cloves.
2. Cook the Veggies
In a large pot, sauté the onion in a splash of broth or a little extra oil until translucent (about 4–5 minutes). Add chopped cauliflower and remaining broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until cauliflower is fork-tender.
3. Blend Until Smooth
Add the roasted garlic and milk. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until silky. (Or carefully transfer to a blender in batches.)
4. Add Cheese and Season
Stir in the shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra richness, garnish with a sprinkle of cheese or chives.
5. Serve
Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy on its own or pair with a light salad or sandwich.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 160
Carbs: 12g
Fat: 7g
Protein: 11g
Fiber: 3g
(Smart choice for a cozy, satisfying meal!)
Tips for Success
- Use Sharp Cheddar: A little goes a long way—more flavor, less cheese needed.
- Make It Vegan: Swap dairy for plant-based milk and vegan cheese.
- Boost the Veggies: Add carrots or celery to the pot for extra nutrition.
- Freeze It: Cools and reheats beautifully—great for meal prep.
Why This Recipe Works
This soup delivers big flavor in a streamlined, wholesome way. Roasted garlic adds depth, while cauliflower creates creaminess without needing heavy ingredients. It’s warm, rich, and utterly satisfying, proving that comfort food can absolutely fit into a mindful lifestyle.
Cheddar Cauliflower & Roasted Garlic Soup is your new go-to when you’re craving something hearty yet healthy. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it checks every box—nutritious, comforting, and delicious. Make a batch, cozy up, and enjoy a bowlful of goodness that loves you back.
Cheddar Cauliflower & Roasted Garlic Soup – Creamy Comfort, Lightened Up
4
servings10
minutes35
minutes160
kcal45
minutesWarm, cozy, and utterly comforting, this Cheddar Cauliflower & Roasted Garlic Soup is everything you love about a creamy soup—without the heaviness. It’s rich in flavor thanks to roasted garlic and sharp cheddar, while cauliflower keeps it velvety and wholesome. Perfect for chilly evenings, meal prep lunches, or a soothing side to your favorite sandwich.
Ingredients
1 medium head cauliflower, chopped (about 4 cups)
1 whole head garlic
1 tsp olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup skim milk (or unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free)
¾ cup reduced-fat shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: chives, extra cheddar, crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Roast the Garlic
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the garlic head to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30–35 minutes, until golden and soft. Let cool, then squeeze out the cloves. - Cook the Veggies
In a large pot, sauté the onion in a splash of broth or a little extra oil until translucent (about 4–5 minutes). Add chopped cauliflower and remaining broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until cauliflower is fork-tender. - Blend Until Smooth
Add the roasted garlic and milk. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until silky. (Or carefully transfer to a blender in batches.) - Add Cheese and Season
Stir in the shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra richness, garnish with a sprinkle of cheese or chives. - Serve
Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy on its own or pair with a light salad or sandwich.
Notes
- Use Sharp Cheddar: A little goes a long way—more flavor, less cheese needed.
Make It Vegan: Swap dairy for plant-based milk and vegan cheese.
Boost the Veggies: Add carrots or celery to the pot for extra nutrition.
Freeze It: Cools and reheats beautifully—great for meal prep.