This creamy cauliflower and ground beef soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With rich beef and smooth cauliflower, every bite feels comforting and hearty. Plus, it’s easy to whip up!
I love how this soup is both filling and healthy. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that warms you from the inside out. It’s perfect for cozy nights! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for this soup. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can work well too. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since they can cook faster.
Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower is perfect for this soup, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen cauliflower works just fine! You can also use broccoli for a different flavor and texture.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it’ll still be creamy!
Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. They pair well with the flavors in the soup.
How Do I Sauté Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing your vegetables at the start can really bring out their flavors! Here’s how to do it right:
- Always start with a hot pan, adding olive oil or butter. This prevents sticking.
- Add onions and garlic first; cook until they turn translucent, usually 3-4 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to evenly cook and avoid burning.
- Once cooked, your veggies will have a sweet, rich flavor that enhances your soup.
Your soup will taste much better with perfectly sautéed veggies, so don’t rush this step!
How to Make Creamy Cauliflower Ground Beef Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, finely chopped or riced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (for extra creaminess)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This deliciously creamy soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, so you’ll need about 40 minutes total from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This is the foundation for incredible flavors!
2. Browning the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook it until it’s well-browned, breaking it into small pieces as you go. If there’s any excess fat, you can carefully drain it out to keep your soup from being greasy.
3. Adding the Veggies:
Next, stir in the diced carrot and riced cauliflower. Cook for about 5 minutes, just enough for the cauliflower to start softening a bit. This gives the soup a hearty texture!
4. Seasoning the Soup:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Sprinkle in the paprika, dried parsley, oregano, basil, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well mixed.
5. Making it Soupy:
Pour in the beef broth and give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes. This allows the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Creamy Finish:
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. This is when it gets that rich, creamy goodness!
7. Optional Cheesy Goodness:
If you’re feeling extra indulgent, stir in some shredded cheese until it melts and creates an even creamier texture.
8. Taste Check:
Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You want it to be just right!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it while it’s hot! This comforting soup is perfect on its own, or pair it with some crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey has a milder flavor, so you may want to adjust the seasoning slightly to enhance the taste.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Your creamy cauliflower ground beef soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm on the stove, adding a bit more broth or cream if it thickens too much.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half, whole milk, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just remember that the creaminess might change slightly depending on the substitute you choose.