This creamy cauliflower, ham, and cheese soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for using up leftover ham. The soup combines cauliflower’s mild flavor with savory ham and sharp white cheddar cheese for a rich, satisfying meal. It’s quick to make and packed with nutrients, making it an excellent option for any day of the week.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp vegetable or avocado oil

• 1 small yellow onion, diced

• 3/4 lb ham, diced

• 4-5 garlic cloves, pressed

• 2 lb head of cauliflower, florets diced

• 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free all-purpose flour for GF version)

• 1 tsp dried sage

• Salt, to taste

• Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste

• 1 bay leaf

• 3 1/2 cups chicken stock

• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

• 4 oz sharp white cheddar cheese, grated

Directions

1. Dice onion and ham into small pieces and set aside. Dice cauliflower florets into small pieces and discard the stem.

2. Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté onion until transparent, then add ham and cook for a few minutes.

3. Add pressed garlic and cook until fragrant.

4. Add cauliflower, stir well, and cook for a few minutes.

5. Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring until everything is evenly coated.

6. Slowly pour in chicken stock while stirring. Add bay leaf, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

7. Lower heat to medium-low and cook for 20-25 minutes until cauliflower is tender.

8. Stir in heavy whipping cream and grated cheddar cheese. Cook a few more minutes until cheese melts and soup is creamy.

9. Remove bay leaf and serve hot.

Nutrients

• Calories: 536 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 29 g

• Protein: 32 g

• Fat: 34 g

• Saturated Fat: 15 g

• Polyunsaturated Fat: 3 g

• Monounsaturated Fat: 13 g

• Cholesterol: 108 mg

• Sodium: 1710 mg

• Potassium: 1248 mg

• Fiber: 5 g

• Sugar: 10 g

• Vitamin A: 732 IU

• Vitamin C: 113 mg

• Calcium: 298 mg

• Iron: 3 mg

The Flavor Profile and Ingredient Harmony

The flavor profile of this soup is well-rounded and thoughtfully layered. Cauliflower provides a gentle, almost creamy base that absorbs the flavors of the broth and seasonings beautifully. The diced ham introduces a smoky, savory component that adds both texture and robust taste. Meanwhile, the sharp white cheddar cheese melts smoothly into the soup, delivering a rich creaminess with a slightly tangy edge.

The addition of dried sage and a bay leaf infuses the soup with subtle herbaceous notes, enhancing its aromatic appeal without overpowering the main ingredients. Garlic and onions are sautéed to bring a sweet and fragrant undertone, balancing the smoky ham and mild cauliflower. This thoughtful balance of flavors ensures the soup remains rich and satisfying but not overly heavy.

Nutritional Value and Health Benefits

This soup is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable loaded with vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, which supports digestion and overall health. The generous amount of cauliflower contributes to the soup’s substantial fiber content and boosts its vitamin C level, making it a nourishing choice.

Ham adds a significant protein punch, essential for muscle repair and satiety. Though the ham and cheese contribute to the soup’s fat and sodium levels, the overall dish remains a balanced meal, especially when paired with a side of fresh vegetables or a light salad. The healthy fats from the use of avocado or vegetable oil and heavy cream provide richness while also supplying essential fatty acids.

Preparation Techniques and Tips for Best Results

Preparing this soup is straightforward but benefits from a few simple techniques to maximize flavor and texture. Sautéing the onion and ham together first allows the ham’s smoky fat to infuse the onions, creating a savory foundation. Adding garlic last during the sautéing process ensures it releases its aroma without burning, which could cause bitterness.

Coating the vegetables and ham with flour before adding chicken stock is a classic thickening method that results in a velvety, smooth soup base. Stirring continuously while pouring in the stock prevents lumps and helps develop the soup’s creamy texture.

Simmering the soup gently allows the cauliflower to soften perfectly without breaking down too much, maintaining a pleasant texture. Incorporating the heavy cream and cheddar cheese near the end of cooking prevents the dairy from curdling while ensuring the cheese melts thoroughly, adding luscious creaminess.

Customization and Dietary Adaptations

This soup is highly adaptable to different dietary preferences and ingredient availabilities. For those who need a gluten-free option, using gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour is a seamless substitution that keeps the thickening power intact without compromising flavor or texture.

The recipe is also suitable for adjusting the creaminess level. If you prefer a lighter soup, you can substitute the heavy cream with whole milk or a dairy-free alternative, though this may slightly alter the richness. Additionally, swapping the cheddar for other cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan can give the soup a different flavor twist.

For a lower sodium option, using a low-sodium chicken stock and reducing added salt can help control the salt content without losing the soup’s savory essence. Similarly, increasing the amount of cauliflower or adding other vegetables like carrots or celery can boost the nutritional content and volume of the soup.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Creamy cauliflower, ham, and cheese soup is delicious on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Crusty bread or warm biscuits complement the creamy texture perfectly, allowing you to scoop up every last bit of the soup. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a crisp contrast and lighten the overall meal.

For a heartier option, serving the soup alongside roasted vegetables or a simple grain like quinoa or rice makes for a well-rounded plate. Garnishing with freshly cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness.

Conclusion

This creamy cauliflower, ham, and cheese soup is a comforting, nutritious, and versatile dish that can easily become a staple in your recipe collection. Its harmonious blend of flavors, from the mild cauliflower to the savory ham and sharp cheddar, creates a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. The soup’s straightforward preparation, combined with its adaptability for different dietary needs and preferences, makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Whether you’re looking to use up leftover ham or simply craving a rich, homemade soup, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Nutrient-rich and indulgently creamy, it’s an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. Paired with simple sides or enjoyed on its own, this soup offers comfort, convenience, and a burst of flavor in every spoonful.