Is there anything better than a warm bowl of soup on a cold day? I don’t think so! And this creamy cauliflower and potato soup? Oh my goodness, it’s a winner. Seriously, it’s like a hug in a bowl. I remember one particularly blustery winter day, I whipped up a batch, and it just *totally* hit the spot. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get those veggies in, you know?
Why You’ll Love This Cauliflower and Potato Soup
Okay, so why *this* cauliflower and potato soup? Well, let me tell you, it’s got a few things going for it that’ll make you wanna whip it up again and again:
- It’s seriously creamy.
- Super easy to make – even on a busy weeknight!
- Packed with good-for-you veggies.
- That comforting flavor? To die for.
- Vegetarian-friendly! Woohoo!
Creamy and Comforting
Seriously, the texture is just amazing. It’s so velvety and smooth, and that warmth? Oh, it just melts away any stress. Trust me, it’s the ultimate comfort food.
Quick and Easy to Prepare
Time is precious, right? That’s why I *love* this soup. You can throw it together in no time. It’s perfect for those nights when you just don’t have the energy to cook something complicated.
Packed with Nutritious Vegetables
Cauliflower and potatoes are secretly nutritional powerhouses! You’re getting vitamins, fiber… the works! It’s a delicious way to sneak in those healthy veggies, even the kids will love it!
A Vegetarian Delight
If you’re vegetarian (or just trying to eat more veggies), this is a fantastic option. It’s hearty, filling, and totally satisfying. You won’t even miss the meat, I promise!
Ingredients for Cauliflower and Potato Soup
Alright, let’s talk about what you’ll need! Don’t worry, it’s mostly stuff you probably already have. Here’s the lineup for this amazing cauliflower and potato soup:
- 1/4 cup (that’s 4 Tbsp, or 56g) of unsalted butter.
- 1 and 1/2 cups (195g) of diced yellow onion (about one medium onion).
- 4 teaspoons of minced fresh garlic (around 4 cloves – and trust me, don’t skimp!).
- 1 teaspoon of good ol’ salt.
- 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley.
- 6 cups (48 oz./1.4L) of chicken or vegetable broth (I usually use chicken, but veggie works great too!).
- 1 Tablespoon of fresh lemon juice (brightens everything up!).
- 1 bay leaf (don’t forget to take it out later!).
- 4 cups (about 700g; or 1 lb. 12 oz.) of peeled and chopped potatoes (I like ’em in about 1-inch pieces).
- 4 cups (about 480g; or 1 lb.) of cauliflower florets.
- Optional: 1/2 cup (120ml) of heavy cream (if you’re feeling fancy!).
- Optional for serving: chopped chives, scallions, or parsley; croutons; and/or crumbled bacon (because why not?).
How to Make Cauliflower and Potato Soup: Step-by-Step Instructions
Okay, here’s the deal. Making this cauliflower and potato soup is *so* easy, I almost feel guilty calling it a recipe. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be slurping down creamy goodness in no time!
Sauté the Aromatics
First things first, melt that butter in a big pot over medium heat. Then, toss in your diced onion and cook it ’til it’s soft and see-through – about 5 minutes. Next, add the garlic. Careful here! You want it fragrant, not burnt. About a minute should do it. Stir in your salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley, and cook for another minute. Mmm, smells good, right?
Simmer Until Tender
Now, pour in the broth, lemon juice, and toss in that bay leaf (don’t forget to take it out later!). Add the potatoes and cauliflower. Bring it all to a boil, then turn the heat down to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 35 minutes, or until those veggies are fork-tender. That’s key!
Blend to Creamy Perfection
Alright, remove that bay leaf! Time to make it creamy. You can use an immersion blender right in the pot (my favorite way – less mess!). Or, let it cool a bit and carefully transfer it to a regular blender in batches. Trust me, hot soup can be a *mess* in a blender if you aren’t careful! Blend until it’s smooth as silk.
Finishing Touches
Now, if you’re feeling extra indulgent, stir in that heavy cream. But honestly, it’s delicious without it too! Serve it up warm, and top it with whatever your heart desires: chopped chives, croutons, crumbled bacon… go wild! Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Cauliflower and Potato Soup
Want to take your cauliflower and potato soup from “good” to “OMG AMAZING?” Here are a few little secrets I’ve learned along the way:
- Don’t overcook the cauliflower! Mushy cauliflower is *not* what we’re going for. You want it tender, but still with a little bit of bite.
- Taste, taste, taste! Adjust the seasoning as you go. A little extra salt and pepper can really make a difference.
- Want a richer flavor? Roast the cauliflower and potatoes before adding them to the soup. It adds a whole new level of deliciousness!
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Your Cauliflower and Potato Soup
Okay, so let’s say you’re missing an ingredient or just wanna switch things up – no problem! Here are a few notes and swaps you can make in this cauliflower and potato soup:
- Broth: Chicken broth adds a bit more richness, but vegetable broth works perfectly if you’re keeping it vegetarian. Water works in a pinch, but it won’t be as flavorful, so you might need extra seasoning.
- Cauliflower: Any type of cauliflower works! Purple, green, even romanesco! They all taste pretty similar once blended.
- Potatoes: I usually go for Yukon Gold because they’re nice and creamy, but Russets or red potatoes are totally fine too.
- Cream: If you’re skipping the cream, try a splash of milk or even a dollop of plain yogurt for extra creaminess. Or skip it altogether! It’s still amazing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cauliflower and Potato Soup
Got questions about this creamy cauliflower and potato soup? I bet you do! Here are some of the most common things people ask me:
- Can I freeze this soup? Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then pop it into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep for about 2-3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat.
- Can I make it vegan? You bet! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and skip the heavy cream (or use a plant-based cream alternative). Easy peasy!
- How long does it last in the fridge? This soup is usually good for about 3-4 days in the fridge. Just make sure it’s in a sealed container.
- Can I add other vegetables? Of course! Feel free to toss in some broccoli, carrots, or even spinach. Just add them when you add the cauliflower and potatoes. Get creative!
Serving Suggestions for Cauliflower and Potato Soup
Okay, so you’ve got this amazing cauliflower and potato soup… what do you serve with it? Well, let me tell you, there are *tons* of options! My personal fave is some crusty bread for dipping – oh my goodness, that’s the best! A simple side salad is always a winner. Or, for the ultimate comfort meal, how about a grilled cheese sandwich? Yum!
Storing and Reheating Your Creamy Cauliflower and Potato Soup
So, you’ve got leftovers? Lucky you! This cauliflower and potato soup keeps really well. Just pop it in an airtight container and stick it in the fridge. It’ll be good for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove over medium heat until it’s warmed through. Easy peasy!
Estimated Nutritional Information for Your Homemade Cauliflower and Potato Soup
Okay, so you’re curious about the nutrition, right? Well, here’s a rough estimate (and I mean *rough*, okay?). Each serving clocks in around 200 calories, 10g of fat, 5g of protein, and 25g of carbs. But hey, it’s homemade, so it’s good for the soul!
Make This Cauliflower and Potato Soup Today!
Seriously, what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and whip up this amazing cauliflower and potato soup! And hey, if you make it, leave a comment and let me know what you think! Or even better, give it a rating! I love hearing from you guys!
Print
Cauliflower and Potato Soup: A Comforting 35-Minute Dish
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and comforting cauliflower and potato soup, perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) unsalted butter
- 1 and 1/2 cups (195g) diced yellow onion (about 1 medium onion)
- 4 teaspoons minced fresh garlic (about 4 cloves)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 6 cups (48 oz./1.4L) chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups (about 700g; or 1 lb. 12 oz.) peeled and chopped potatoes (about 1-inch pieces)
- 4 cups (about 480g; or 1 lb.) cauliflower florets
- optional: 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- optional for serving: chopped chives, scallions, or parsley; croutons; and/or crumbled bacon
Instructions
- Melt the butter over medium heat in a large stockpot or Dutch oven. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and begin to turn translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Do not let the garlic get too brown. Stir in the salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add broth, lemon juice, bay leaf, potatoes, and cauliflower. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 35 minutes. The vegetables should be fork-tender.
- Remove from heat. Remove bay leaf. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Or let cool slightly and then carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender and puree in batches (see Notes for instructions). If using, stir or blend in heavy cream.
- Serve soup warm and top with chopped chives, croutons, and/or crumbled bacon, if desired.
- Keep leftovers in a large covered container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply pour into a pot over medium heat and cook until warm.
Notes
- For blending in a regular blender, let the soup cool slightly before transferring to avoid splattering.
- Adjust seasoning to your liking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg