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Cauliflower Soup

Low carbohydrate cauliflower soup made with broth and cream
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 5
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 head of cauliflower cut into florets
  • kosher salt to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • ½ cup of sour cream
  • ¾ cup of heavy cream
  • 2 ½ cups of low sodium chicken broth
  • 3 slices of bacon garnish
  • minced chives garnish
  • Cheddar Cheese garnish
  • extra Sour cream garnish

Method
 

  1. Chop your uncooked bacon into about one inch pieces. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat, add the bacon and cook until crispy. Once the bacon is done remove it from the pan and allow it to drain on a paper towel.
  2. Next, add the cauliflower, chicken broth, salt, pepper, garlic, onion, thyme and bay leaf to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil and then lower the heat. Let the soup simmer for 15 minutes or until the cauliflower are fork tender.
  3. When the cauliflower florets are tender, turn off the heat and remove the bay leaf. Add the heavy cream and sour cream to the pot and use an immersion blender to blend until smooth.
  4. Plate and top with bacon, chives, cheddar cheese and an extra dollop of sour cream if desired.

Notes

Variations and substitutions for this cauliflower soup

Vegetable Variations

  • Add broccoli: Swap half the cauliflower for broccoli for a deeper flavor.
  • Include zucchini: Adds extra creaminess without extra carbs.
  • Roasted cauliflower: Roast before blending for a richer, slightly nutty taste.
  • Spinach or kale: Stir in at the end for added nutrients.

Dairy Substitutions

  • Cream cheese: Mascarpone or ricotta for a milder flavor
  • Heavy cream: Half-and-half (slightly less rich)
  • Add cheddar or gouda for a sharper, cheesy twist
  • Dairy-free option: Use coconut cream (adds slight sweetness)

Protein Add-Ins

  • Ham pieces: Great for leftovers
  • Shredded chicken: Makes it more filling
  • Ground sausage: Adds spice and richness

Flavor Boosters & Seasoning Swaps

  • Cajun seasoning → Adds a spicy kick
  • Smoked paprika → Gives a subtle smoky depth
  • Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, chives) → Brightens the dish
  • Red pepper flakes → For heat lovers

Texture Adjustment

  • Ultra smooth → Blend completely with an immersion blender
  • Chunky style → Blend only half the soup
  • Thicker soup → Add extra cream cheese
  • Thinner consistency → Add more broth or cream

Broth & Base Options

  • Chicken broth → Vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
  • Bone broth for added nutrients and richness
  • Add bouillon for a stronger flavor if needed

Keto-Friendly Toppings

  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Chopped green onions
  • Crumbled bacon
  • Drizzle of olive oil

Storage instructions for this vegetable soup

Refrigerating Cauliflower Soup

Steps to Store

  1. Cool the soup first
    Let it cool at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes. Avoid leaving it out longer than 2 hours.
  2. Transfer to airtight containers
    Use sealed containers to keep the soup fresh and prevent it from absorbing fridge odors.
  3. Store in the fridge promptly
    Keep at or below 40°F (4°C).

Shelf Life

  • Stays fresh for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cauliflower Soup

Freezing Tips

  • Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
  • Leave a little space at the top (soup expands when frozen).
  • Label with the date for easy tracking.

Shelf Life

  • Best used within 2 to 3 months for best quality.

Note on Cream-Based Soups

Because this soup contains cream and/or cream cheese, it may:
  • Separate slightly after thawing
  • Become a bit grainy
This is normal—just stir well while reheating and add a splash of cream or broth to bring back the smooth texture.

Reheating Instructions

Stovetop (Best Method)

  • Heat on low to medium, stirring often
  • Add a little cream, milk, or broth to loosen the texture

Microwave

  • Heat in 30–60 second intervals
  • Stir between each interval for even heating