Name: Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup for Cozy Comfort Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Roasted Red Peppers (jarred or homemade); 1 cup Aged Gouda Cheese (grated); 1 large Onion (diced); 2 cloves Garlic (fresh, minced); 4 cups Vegetable Broth (or chicken broth); 1 cup Cream (or a non-dairy alternative); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or butter); Salt (to taste); Pepper (freshly ground, to taste)

As the cool air settles in, there’s nothing quite like cozying up with a steaming bowl of homemade goodness. This Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup is my go-to recipe for those chilly evenings, seamlessly combining the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the smoky richness of aged Gouda cheese. In just 45 minutes, you’ll have a deliciously velvety soup that’s perfect for turning a casual dinner into something special. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making it an easy choice for meal prep—just pull a bowl from the freezer whenever the craving strikes! Are you ready to elevate your soup game and bring warmth to your table?

Why Is This Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting warmth: This Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup wraps you in its cozy embrace, making it the ideal companion for chilly nights.
Quick and easy: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, it’s a breeze to prepare, even for busy weeknights.
Versatile flavors: The sweet and smoky notes create a complex flavor profile, allowing you to serve this dish as a standalone meal or alongside your favorite salad for a complete dining experience.
Meal prep friendly: Freezer-friendly, this soup can be made ahead of time, ensuring that you always have a comforting meal at your fingertips—just reheat and enjoy!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting friends or cooking for family, this soup will impress everyone at the table, making it a delightful addition to any gathering. Get ready to dive into a bowl of delight with this family recipe!

Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Ingredients

For the Soup
• Roasted Red Peppers – These add a sweet depth to the soup; feel free to use jarred or homemade for convenience.
• Aged Gouda Cheese – Provides a smoky richness that elevates the flavor; substitute with sharp cheddar if you like a different twist.
• Onion – Adds aromatic sweetness to the base; leeks can be used for a more delicate touch.
• Garlic – Delivers depth and a hint of spice; opt for fresh garlic cloves for best results.
• Vegetable Broth – The soup’s liquid base; chicken broth can be used for richer flavor if desired.
• Cream – Ensures a creamy texture; replace with milk or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter option.
• Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing the onion and garlic; can be swapped with butter for a richer taste.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for perfect balance.

Enjoy making your comforting Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup that’s sure to warm your soul!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add one diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step allows the base of your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup to develop a sweet, aromatic profile.

Step 2: Add Garlic
Next, finely mince 2 cloves of garlic and add them to the pot with the onions. Sauté for an additional minute until the garlic becomes aromatic, creating a beautiful depth of flavor in your soup. Make sure the garlic doesn’t burn, as it can turn bitter and affect the dish’s taste.

Step 3: Incorporate Roasted Peppers
Stir in 2 cups of roasted red peppers, which can either be jarred or homemade, along with 4 cups of vegetable broth. Give everything a good stir to combine the flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, allowing it to bubble softly for about 15 minutes so that the flavors meld beautifully together.

Step 4: Blend the Soup
After the simmering time, carefully use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s completely smooth and velvety. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender, ensuring it’s perfectly creamy. Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Pour in 1 cup of cream and 1 cup of aged Gouda cheese, grated for even melting. Stir the mixture continuously over low heat for about 5 minutes until the cheese is fully melted, and the soup takes on a rich, creamy consistency. Be careful not to let the soup boil, as this can cause the cream to curdle.

Step 6: Season to Taste
Finally, season your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it a good stir to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Once seasoned to your liking, it’s ready to serve! Enjoy the delightful velvety texture and the warming flavors of this comforting soup.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes on busy weeknights! You can roast the red peppers and sauté the onion and garlic up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the soup can be fully cooked and stored for up to 3 days before serving. Just reheat it gently on the stove, stirring in the cream and Gouda just before serving to maintain that creamy, velvety texture. With these simple steps, you’ll enjoy effortless, delicious meals with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup

Elevate your cozy dining experience with perfect pairings that complement the sweet and smoky notes of this velvety soup.

Crusty Bread: The ultimate companion, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
Simple Green Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette offer a refreshing crunch that brightens the rich flavors of the soup. Add some cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crispy, buttery garlic breadsticks not only bring flavor but also provide a delightful texture contrast, enhancing every bite.
Cheese Toast: Thick slices of toast topped with melted cheese create a savory snack that pairs perfectly with the creamy soup, making it a filling choice.
Roasted Vegetable Medley: Seasonal roasted veggies add extra nutrients and textures. Their caramelized sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of the soup.
Wine Pairing: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir offers a crisp balance to the creamy depths of the Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup, enhancing every sip.
Apple Crisp: For a sweet ending, a warm apple crisp brings a hint of sweetness and a lovely texture, wrapping up your meal perfectly.

How to Store and Freeze Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup

Fridge: Store your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for best results.

Freezer: Freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. To thaw, transfer to the fridge overnight, then reheat on low, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.

Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore the original smooth texture. Avoid boiling after adding dairy to keep it creamy and luscious.

Make-Ahead: Prepare your soup in advance and store it as mentioned above; having this comforting soup ready to go makes weeknight meals a breeze!

Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup and make it your own!

Dairy-Free: Swap cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a luscious dairy-free option that maintains the velvety texture.
Extra Veggies: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. This adds nutrition and a pop of vibrant color!
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the heat; perfect for those who love a bit of spice in their soup.
Hearty Addition: Stir in cooked pasta or quinoa to transform your soup into a filling meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your hunger.
Smoky Twist: For an extra smoky flavor, use smoked Gouda cheese instead of aged Gouda. This will give the soup a unique and delightful twist.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or basil while blending for a fresh and aromatic flavor that enhances the overall experience.
Nutty Flavor: Top your soup with roasted pumpkin seeds or pine nuts for crunch and a nutty finish. This adds a wonderful texture that complements the creaminess beautifully.
Creamy Alternative: For a lighter version, replace cream with Greek yogurt, stirring it in at the end. This not only cuts calories but also adds a tangy richness.

No matter how you choose to modify this comforting soup, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite. If you’re looking for more inspiration, you might enjoy trying my Creamy Tomato Basil Soup or my delightful Butternut Squash Soup. Each recipe brings its own unique flair to warm up those cozy nights!

Expert Tips for Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup

Quality Matters: Use high-quality aged Gouda for the best flavor, as it enhances the soup’s rich, smoky taste. Don’t settle for lower-grade cheese.

Smooth Texture: Make sure to blend the soup thoroughly until completely smooth. This ensures a velvety texture, making your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup feel luxurious and indulgent.

Watch the Heat: Be careful not to let the soup boil after adding the cream. This will prevent curdling and keep the soup creamy and delightful.

Flavor Adjustments: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Fresh herbs can elevate your soup; consider adding a sprinkle of basil or parsley before serving for an extra burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions: Pair with crusty bread or a light salad to create a complete meal. The contrast in textures complements the creaminess of the soup beautifully.

Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of red peppers should I use for this soup?
Absolutely! You can use either jarred or homemade roasted red peppers. If you’re making them at home, select ripe red bell peppers that are firm with smooth skin and no dark spots. Roasting them enhances their sweetness and smokiness, which are essential for this soup.

How should I store leftover Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup?
Very simple! Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again. If you’re in a hurry, you can even eat it cold!

Can I freeze Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup?
Of course! This soup is perfect for freezing. Pour it into portion-sized containers or freezer bags, making sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer it to the fridge overnight, then reheat on low, stirring occasionally to maintain that creamy texture.

What if my soup is too thick after reheating?
Not a problem! If you find that your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup is thicker than you’d like when reheating, just add a splash of cream or vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency. Stir it well and gradually heat, avoiding a boil to keep the texture smooth and creamy.

Is this soup suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Yes, indeed! You can easily modify this recipe for dairy-sensitive individuals. Substitute the cream and aged Gouda cheese with non-dairy alternatives; options like coconut cream or cashew cheese can work beautifully. Just make sure to taste as you go, as these substitutions may alter the flavor slightly.

Can I add protein to this soup for a heartier meal?
Absolutely! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even beans to give your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup a protein boost. If you want to keep it vegetarian, fully-cooked lentils or chickpeas are excellent choices. Just add them in during the blending step to incorporate them smoothly.