Name: Cozy Up with Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 cups red bell peppers (jarred roasted peppers can be used for a quicker version); 2 tablespoons olive oil (avocado oil can be used as an alternative); 1 teaspoon kosher salt (regular salt works if you’re in a pinch); 2 tablespoons butter (for dairy-free, use olive oil); 1 medium yellow onion (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (cornstarch can be used for gluten-free); 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (for vegan version, use vegetable broth); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a milder flavor, use regular paprika); 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (Italian seasoning can be used as a substitute); to taste black pepper (white pepper can be swapped for different flavor); 1.5 cups aged gouda (shredded); 0.5 cups heavy cream (omit for lighter version or use coconut cream for non-dairy); to taste fresh basil (ideal for garnish)

As the chill of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh roasted red peppers wafting from the kitchen—a smell that instantly warms your heart and soul. Allow me to introduce my creamy Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup, a cozy dish that captures the essence of comfort food and elevates your meal experience—all in under an hour! This recipe not only delivers a velvety texture but also offers delightful variations, whether you crave a spicy kick or a tangy tomato twist. Best of all, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, yet elegant enough to impress guests. So, are you ready to indulge in a bowl full of rich, smoky flavors that will make you rethink your takeout options? Let’s dive in!

Why is this soup a must-try?

Comforting Warmth: This Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup brings a velvety texture and rich flavors that wrap you like a warm blanket on a chilly day.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 55 minutes, it’s a simple dish perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for hosting.
Flavorful Variations: Feeling adventurous? Spice it up with chipotle peppers or try a tomato-red pepper twist!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Guaranteed to impress family and friends, this soup is a surefire way to elevate any meal and impress guests at dinner parties.
Nutritional Benefits: Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s vegetarian-friendly while still offering satisfying creaminess.
Why not pair it with delicious sides like grilled cheese croutons to take your meal to the next level? You’re in for a delightful treat with every spoonful!

Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Ingredients

• For the Soup

Red Bell Peppers – Provides the smoky, sweet base; jarred roasted peppers can be used for a quicker version.
Olive Oil – Enhances flavor during roasting; avocado oil is a good alternative.
Kosher Salt – Elevates the peppers’ flavor; regular salt works if you’re in a pinch.
Butter – Adds richness; for a dairy-free option, you can use olive oil instead.
Yellow Onion – Brings sweetness and depth; shallots can be substituted for a milder taste.
Garlic – Infuses aromatic flavor; you can use garlic powder if fresh is not handy.
All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup; cornstarch or a gluten-free blend works for gluten-free needs.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth – Acts as the soup’s base; for vegan versions, stick with vegetable broth.
Smoked Paprika – Provides the signature smokiness; regular paprika does the trick for a milder flavor.
Fresh Thyme – Adds herbal notes; Italian seasoning can be a suitable substitute.
Black Pepper – For seasoning; white pepper can be swapped for a different flavor profile.
Aged Gouda – The star of the soup, delivering creaminess; young gouda or sharp white cheddar can be used, but the flavor will differ.
Heavy Cream (Optional) – Adds extra indulgence; omit for a lighter version or go for coconut cream for a non-dairy option.
Fresh Basil – Ideal for garnish; parsley works well if basil isn’t available.

Indulge in this Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup packed with flavors that will warm your spirit and enliven your dinner table!

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

Step 1: Roast the Peppers
Preheat your broiler to high and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the red bell peppers on the sheet and roast them for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skins are blackened and blistered. Watch closely as they begin to char; this smokiness is essential for your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup.

Step 2: Peel and Prepare the Peppers
Once roasted, remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a sealed plastic bag for about 10 minutes. This steaming process makes peeling easier. After cooling, peel off the charred skins, remove stems and seeds, and set the peppers aside; they will add richness to your soup.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In a large pot over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add one diced yellow onion and sauté for 5–6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent and soft. This step builds the aromatic base for your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup, ensuring robust flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Add Garlic
Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 60 seconds until fragrant. Keep stirring gently to prevent the garlic from burning. The delicious aroma will start to fill your kitchen, promising a delightful soup ahead.

Step 5: Create the Roux
Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, mixing well to integrate with the onion and garlic. Cook the roux for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden color. This roux will thicken the soup, giving it a luxurious texture as we move forward with the Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup.

Step 6: Add Broth and Seasoning
Gradually whisk in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir in the roasted red peppers, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, and black pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for 15 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 7: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy, ensuring no chunks remain. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a traditional blender. Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat—it’s time to introduce the star ingredient.

Step 8: Stir in Gouda
Gradually add 1 ½ cups of shredded aged gouda cheese to the hot soup, stirring until it melts completely. As the gouda integrates, you’ll notice the soup transforming into a rich, creamy delight. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding salt or black pepper as desired.

Step 9: Finishing Touches
For extra indulgence, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream if you wish to elevate the soup’s richness further. Just before serving, mix in torn fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness. This Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup is now ready to envelop you in its comforting embrace!

Expert Tips for Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup

Fully Char the Peppers: Ensure that your red peppers are well-charred to achieve that desirable smoky flavor, adding depth to the soup.

Grate Your Gouda: Shredding your own aged gouda creates better melting qualities, avoiding any graininess that pre-shredded cheese can introduce into your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup.

Blend Over Low Heat: When incorporating the cheese, keep the heat low to maintain a creamy texture and prevent the cheese from becoming grainy.

Taste as You Go: Seasoning can vary with brands; taste and adjust salt and pepper gradually throughout the cooking process for the best results.

Consider Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations! For a spicy kick, add chipotle peppers or switch to a tangy tomato version for a refreshing twist.

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 5 days. Let it cool first to preserve texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand while freezing.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed for desired consistency.

Avoid Reheating in Microwave: To maintain the creamy texture of your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup, it’s best to avoid reheating it in the microwave, as this can make the soup grainy.

Make Ahead Options

These Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup components are perfect for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to save time during the week! You can roast and peel the red bell peppers up to 24 hours ahead, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the sautéed onion and garlic mixture can be prepared in advance and kept for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, ensure everything is stored tightly so flavors stay vibrant. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply blend the sautéed ingredients with the broth, incorporate the prepared peppers, and stir in the gouda until melted. You’ll have a cozy dinner ready in no time, just as delicious as cooking everything from scratch!

Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative with this soup, as its delicious base allows for plenty of fun twists and substitutions that suit your taste buds!

Spicy Gouda Soup: Add chipotle peppers for a smoky heat that will warm your soul and excite your palate. Blend it in well for that fiery kick!
Tangy Tomato Red Pepper Soup: Mix in crushed tomatoes for a zesty twist that perfectly balances the sweetness of the roasted peppers, offering a flavorful contrast.
White Cheddar Version: Swap aged gouda for sharp white cheddar to experience a richer, sharper taste that adds a delightful depth to your soup. This switch can transform the entire flavor profile!
Quick Weeknight Soup: Use jarred roasted red peppers to save time and skip the roasting step. It’s a brilliant hack for those busy evenings when you crave a comforting bowl of soup.
Dairy-Free Delight: Omit the heavy cream and gouda, then use coconut cream for richness or silken tofu for a creamy texture without dairy. Your soup will remain luxuriously smooth!
Garnish Variation: Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese instead of basil for a tangy finish. It adds a new dimension of flavor to the creamy base.
Herb Infusion: Replace fresh thyme with rosemary or dill for a distinct herbal note that can brighten the soup. Different herbs can completely change the vibe!
Noodle Boost: Stir in some cooked pasta or quinoa to add heartiness and transform this soup into a full meal. It’s a wholesome way to make it even more satisfying!

For great sides to serve with your soup, consider some easy-to-make grilled cheese croutons or crunchy prosciutto chips for an extra texture kick. Adventure awaits in every spoonful, so don’t hesitate to mix things up!

What to Serve with Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup

Elevate your dinner experience by pairing with delightful sides that enhance each flavor note.

Grilled Cheese Croutons: These cheesy morsels add crunch and gooey goodness, perfectly complementing the soup’s creaminess. A classic pairing for a reason!
Crusty Artisan Bread: The robust flavors of sourdough or whole grain bread soak up the soup beautifully, making each bite a heavenly blend of textures.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the smoky richness of the soup, balancing the meal perfectly.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies offer a great contrast in flavor and texture, adding a vibrant color and depth to your dinner spread.
Crispy Prosciutto Chips: These savory chips provide a delightful crunch and a touch of saltiness that pairs delightfully with the velvety soup, enhancing every spoonful.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of dry Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the smoky notes of the soup, transforming your meal into a bistro-style dining experience.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp brings sweetness to the table, offering a delightful end to your meal that echoes the comforting flavors of the soup.

Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting red bell peppers?
Always choose red bell peppers that are firm and shiny, with no dark spots or wrinkles. If you’re going for that perfect smoky flavor, opt for peppers that are deeply colored and have a vibrant sheen.

How should I store leftover Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup?
You can store your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Can I freeze Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, ladle the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion. It will last for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What do I do if my soup is too thick after reheating?
If you find your soup has thickened too much, simply stir in a little water or broth while reheating until it reaches your desired consistency. This will help restore its creamy texture and make it just as delightful as when it was freshly made!

Is this soup safe for people with dairy allergies?
While this Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup contains cheese and butter, you can make it dairy-free by substituting the gouda with a dairy-free cheese alternative and using olive oil instead of butter. Always check labels to ensure the products are free from allergens.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme?
Certainly! If using fresh thyme, remember that fresh herbs are often more potent than dried ones. For this recipe, you can use about three times the amount of fresh thyme as you would dried, adjusting to your personal taste preferences.