If you’ve ever visited Cafe Zupas, you know the magic they work in their kitchen-especially when it comes to their soups. One of the shining stars on their menu is the Wisconsin Cauliflower Soup, a dish that takes humble cauliflower to new heights with creamy, rich textures and a deliciously savory flavor profile. It’s one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and healthy, which is a rare combination. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for a lighter, vegetable-based soup that still packs a punch in the flavor department, this recipe is going to hit the spot.
But let’s not stop there-how amazing would it be to recreate this velvety, smooth soup right in your own kitchen? Lucky for you, I’ve got the full rundown on how to make Cafe Zupas’ Wisconsin Cauliflower Soup at home. Grab your apron and let’s dive in!
Cafe Zupas Wisconsin Cauliflower Soup Recipe
This recipe brings the best of what makes the Cafe Zupas version so loved: it’s creamy, rich, and full of hearty goodness. Plus, it has a subtle blend of flavors that elevate the simple cauliflower to something truly comforting. The beauty of this soup is that it’s relatively easy to prepare, and the ingredients are simple yet make a massive impact.
Ingredients Needed
- Cauliflower (fresh, chopped) – 1 medium head
- Butter – 2 tbsp
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp
- Onion (diced) – 1 small to medium
- Garlic (minced) – 3 cloves
- Vegetable or chicken broth – 4 cups
- Heavy cream – 1 cup
- Milk – 1 cup
- Flour – 2 tbsp (for thickening)
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper – to taste
- Thyme (fresh or dried) – 1 tsp
- Bay leaf – 1
- Cheddar cheese (shredded) – 1 cup (optional for extra richness)
- Parmesan cheese (grated) – 1/2 cup (optional for topping)
- Chives or parsley – for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the cauliflower: Wash and chop your cauliflower into small florets. If you want a smoother soup, feel free to chop them finer. Set them aside for later.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent (about 4-5 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the cauliflower: Add the cauliflower florets to the pot, stirring them to coat with the buttery, garlicky mixture. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step adds a depth of flavor to the cauliflower before you add the liquids.
- Add the liquids: Pour in the broth, milk, and heavy cream. Stir everything together, ensuring the cauliflower is submerged. Add the thyme and bay leaf for aromatic flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Simmer the soup: Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is soft and easily pierced with a fork.
- Blend the soup: Remove the bay leaf, then use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Be sure to blend it in small portions to avoid splattering.
- Thicken the soup: In a small bowl, whisk the flour with a couple of tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Slowly stir this into the soup to help thicken it. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add seasoning and finish: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you like, you can stir in the shredded cheddar cheese for added creaminess and flavor.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs like chives or parsley, and a little extra cheddar if desired. Serve with a warm piece of crusty bread or a side salad for the perfect meal.
Ingredient Insights
- Cauliflower: This vegetable is the star of the dish. While cauliflower doesn’t have a strong flavor on its own, it absorbs the seasonings and creamy elements around it, creating a beautifully subtle taste. It’s packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this soup as healthy as it is indulgent.
- Heavy cream and milk: These two ingredients give the soup its velvety texture. While heavy cream is rich and smooth, milk helps balance it out, making the soup lighter while still maintaining its creaminess.
- Cheese: The addition of cheddar cheese isn’t just for flavor-though it certainly enhances the soup-it also adds a smooth, comforting depth. Parmesan is used as a garnish to bring a nutty, sharp contrast that works beautifully with the creamy base.
- Broth: The type of broth you use can influence the soup’s flavor profile. A vegetable broth is ideal for keeping the soup vegetarian, while chicken broth adds a savory richness. Either way, it’s crucial for bringing all the ingredients together.
Expert Tips
- For extra creaminess: If you want an even richer texture, you can add a bit more heavy cream or swap in half-and-half for some of the milk. Just be careful not to make it too thick unless that’s what you’re going for!
- Make it smoky: Add a touch of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to the soup for an interesting smoky undertone that will elevate the flavor.
- Boost the flavor with roasted cauliflower: If you have extra time, roast the cauliflower before adding it to the soup. Roasting caramelizes the cauliflower, giving it a deeper, nuttier flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread: This soup is made for dipping. A loaf of warm, buttery bread is perfect for sopping up the creamy goodness.
- For a vegan version: Use coconut milk in place of heavy cream and choose vegetable broth. Skip the cheese, or use a plant-based alternative.
Recipe Variations
- Add-ins for extra veggies: You can sneak in other vegetables like carrots, leeks, or even sweet potatoes. Just make sure to chop them small enough to blend easily.
- Spicy version: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a diced jalapeño to the soup base for an extra kick.
- Cheese lovers’ edition: Make the soup extra cheesy by stirring in some mozzarella or Gruyère along with the cheddar.
- Protein-packed: Add cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage for a heartier meal that’s both satisfying and comforting.
Final Words
This soup is a great example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something amazing. With its creamy texture, balanced flavors, and versatility, it’s no wonder that the Wisconsin Cauliflower Soup has a loyal following at Cafe Zupas. Whether you’re serving it as a light meal or as part of a larger spread, it’s sure to please a crowd. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.