Print

Creamy Cauliflower and Leek Soup with Crispy Bacon

Creamy Cauliflower and Leek Soup with Crispy Bacon
Print Recipe

Creamy Cauliflower and Leek Soup with Crispy Bacon is a comforting, velvety soup that combines tender cauliflower and sweet leeks with crispy smoky bacon. This easy-to-make soup delivers rich flavors and a satisfying texture without heavy cream, perfect as a cozy starter or light meal on chilly days.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups cauliflower florets (about 1 medium head)
  • 2 large leeks (white and light green parts only), cleaned and sliced
  • 4 to 6 slices crispy bacon, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • ½ cup heavy cream or milk (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (for garnish)
  • Grated Parmesan or aged cheddar (for a cheesy boost)
  • Red chili flakes or hot sauce (for a spicy twist)
  • Smoked paprika or liquid smoke (for vegetarian smoky flavor)
  • Diced potatoes or carrots (for added texture)
  • Coconut milk or almond milk (for dairy-free adaptation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Trim and thoroughly clean the leeks to remove grit, slice them, chop the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, and mince the garlic. Set the bacon aside for cooking later.
  2. Cook the Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain, leaving the bacon fat in the pot for flavor.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add butter to the bacon fat and melt gently. Add the sliced leeks and garlic and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and fragrant but not browned.
  4. Simmer with Cauliflower and Broth: Add the cauliflower florets to the pot, pour in the broth, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until the cauliflower is tender.
  5. Blend Until Creamy: Use an immersion blender or transfer soup in batches to a countertop blender and puree until smooth. Stir in the cream or milk if using, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve with Crispy Bacon: Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces on top for contrast in texture and rich flavor. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Choose fresh leeks and clean thoroughly to avoid grit in your soup.
  • Save and use bacon fat to sauté the leeks and garlic for deeper smoky flavor.
  • Blend soup thoroughly for a smooth, creamy texture without chunks.
  • Adjust soup thickness by slowly adding broth or cream until desired consistency.
  • Reheat gently over low heat to maintain creaminess and prevent separation.
  • Store bacon separately to keep it crispy when reheating leftovers.

Nutrition

Keywords: cauliflower soup, leek soup, creamy soup, bacon, comfort food, easy soup recipe, vegetarian option, gluten free

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/creamy-cauliflower-and-leek-soup-with-crispy-bacon/