Name: Cheesy Cauliflower Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp vegetable or avocado oil.; 1 small yellow onion.; 3/4 lb ham.; 4-5 garlic cloves, pressed.; 2 lb head of cauliflower.; 3 Tbsp all purpose flour.; 1 tsp dried sage.; Salt.; Fresh cracked black pepper.; 1 bay leaf.; 3 1/2 cups chicken stock.; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream.; 4 oz sharp white cheddar cheese, grated.

A close-up of a bowl of hearty soup containing diced ham, cauliflower, and vegetables, with a spoon resting inside. | cookingwithcasey.com

Let me share my comforting Cauliflower Ham and Cheese Soup that's perfect for cozy meals and using holiday leftovers. The combination of tender cauliflower creamy cheese sauce and savory ham creates pure comfort in every spoonful.

Perfect Base

Cauliflower mild versatile vegetable. Absorbs flavors maintains character beautifully.

Must Have Ingredients

Cauliflower: Fresh firm florets best
Ham: Holiday leftovers perfect choice
Stock: Low sodium adds depth
Cheese: Sharp white cheddar rich
Cream: Heavy whipping silky texture

Easy Steps

Prep First: Chop vegetables dice ham measure ingredients
Start Cooking: Sauté onions ham garlic Dutch oven
Build Soup: Add cauliflower flour broth simmer tender
Finish Creamy: Stir cream cheese perfect serving texture

Perfect Match

Creamy cheese savory ham blend. Every spoonful rich satisfying flavor.

A creamy soup with cauliflower, diced ham, and shredded cheddar cheese is served in a black pot, alongside a dish of fluffy couscous. | cookingwithcasey.com

Use Leftovers

Holiday ham adds depth flavor. Reduces waste creates delicious meal.

Healthy Choice

Rich vitamins minerals protein. Balanced nutritious filling meal.

Make It Yours

Add extra vegetables spices heat. Customize perfect your taste.

Meal Prep Ready

Makes great batch cooking option. Stores reheats beautifully convenient.

Perfect Texture

Heavy cream smooth consistency. Blend desired smoothness preference.

A bowl of creamy soup with cauliflower, chunks of ham, and sprinkled black pepper. | cookingwithcasey.com

Cheese Options

Try gouda swiss monterey jack. Each brings unique flavor profile.

Gluten Free

Use one to one flour blend. Same thickness creamy results.

Complete Meal

Serve crusty bread fresh salad. Top bacon herbs extra flavor.

Right Tools

Dutch oven distributes heat well. Immersion blender smooth option.

Plan Ahead

Prep ingredients store ready. Quick easy cooking time needed.

A close-up view of a creamy cauliflower and ham soup in a black bowl, garnished with herbs and pepper. | cookingwithcasey.com

Extra Flavor

Use smoked ham bay leaf. Creates deeper richer taste.

Perfect Pairs

White wine light beer great. Sparkling water refreshing option.

Add Crunch

Top croutons crispy onions nuts. Contrasts creamy soup texture.

Dairy Free

Plant cheese coconut cream works. Still rich creamy delicious.

Budget Smart

Affordable ingredients great value. Creates luxurious meal reasonable cost.

A bowl of creamy soup filled with diced ham, cauliflower, and seasonings, accompanied by a wooden bowl and a block of cheese in the background. | cookingwithcasey.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I make this gluten-free?: Use 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute. Don't use almond or coconut flour. Check ham labels to ensure it's gluten-free.
→ Can I freeze this soup?: Yes, though cream-based soups can separate when thawed. Reheat gently, stirring frequently to recombine.
→ How long does it keep?: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
→ Can I use different cheese?: Sharp white cheddar provides the best flavor, but any good melting cheese will work. Avoid pre-shredded for better melting.
→ Why cut cauliflower small?: Small pieces cook more quickly and evenly, creating a better texture in the finished soup.

Ham Cheese Soup