Bacon cheddar cauliflower chowder

Bacon Cheddar Cauliflower Chowder is a creamy soup that combines rich cheddar cheese and crispy bacon with tender cauliflower for a satisfying meal. This comforting dish is perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings.

23 Jan 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp all-purpose white wheat flour
2 cups chicken gravy
8 bacon strips
1 onion
1 stalk celery
2 garlic cloves
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper
1/2 cauliflower
1 tsp onion powder
2 tbsp water
2 cups milk (1% fat)
2.50 cups cheddar cheese
1 tsp pepper sauce
2 onions

Bacon Cheddar Cauliflower Chowder is the perfect comfort food for any season. This creamy, savory soup combines the richness of cheddar cheese and bacon with the subtle nuttiness of cauliflower, creating a dish that's both satisfying and delicious. Ideal for cozy nights in or as a starter for a festive dinner, this chowder recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Chop the onion, celery, and cauliflower.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Shred the cheddar cheese.
- Slice the green onions for garnish.

2. Cook the Bacon:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon strips over medium heat until they are crispy.
- Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot and discard any excess.
- Once cooled, crumble the bacon and set aside.

3. Sauté Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion and celery to the pot with the reserved bacon fat.
- Sauté the vegetables over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until they become tender.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.

4. Make the Roux:
- Sprinkle in the all-purpose white wheat flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually add in the water and chicken gravy, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

5. Cook the Cauliflower:
- Add the chopped cauliflower, onion powder, dash of salt, and black pepper to the pot.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.

6. Simmer the Chowder:
- Slowly stir in the milk.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender.

7. Add Cheese and Bacon:
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon (reserve some for garnish), and pepper sauce.
- Continue to cook for about 5 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and the chowder reaches your desired consistency.

8. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
- Taste the chowder and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the hot chowder into bowls.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and reserved crumbled bacon before serving.

This Bacon Cheddar Cauliflower Chowder is just what you need for a warm, hearty meal. The blend of flavors from the bacon, cheese, and cauliflower creates a deliciously comforting dish. Serve it with some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the comforting warmth and tantalizing flavors of this delightful chowder!

Bacon cheddar cauliflower chowder FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftover chowder?

Store leftover Bacon Cheddar Cauliflower Chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, until heated through.

How can I make this chowder gluten-free?

To make the chowder gluten-free, substitute all-purpose white wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the roux. Ensure the chicken gravy is also gluten-free.

How do I know when the cauliflower is cooked enough?

The cauliflower is done cooking when it is tender enough to easily pierce with a fork, usually after about 15-20 minutes of simmering in the chowder.

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can use other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda instead of cheddar. Just keep in mind this may alter the flavor profile of the chowder.

What can I substitute for chicken gravy?

If you don’t have chicken gravy, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or homemade chicken stock thickened with a roux or cornstarch to mimic the texture.

Tips:

- For a thicker chowder, use heavy cream instead of milk.

- If you're watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium chicken gravy.

- To add a bit more depth, consider roasting the cauliflower before adding it to the chowder.

- You can add a few red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your soup.

- Try using smoked bacon for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 280kcal
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 13g
Fiber 1.61g
Sugar 5g
Fat 18g

Bacon cheddar cauliflower chowder