Name: Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup to Soothe Your Soul
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons Butter (Can substitute with olive oil for dairy-free); 4 large Red Bell Peppers (Ensure well-charred for best flavor); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Can substitute with any vegetable oil); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Adjust amount if using regular salt); 1 medium Yellow Onion (Shallots can be used as a substitute); 4 cloves Garlic (Fresh garlic is best); 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour; 4 cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth (Use vegetable broth for vegetarian option); 2 cups Aged Gouda (Shredded, young gouda is a substitute); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Regular paprika can substitute); 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme (Dried thyme can be used if fresh is unavailable); ½ teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust seasoning to taste); ¼ cup Heavy Cream (Optional for extra creaminess); ¼ cup Fresh Basil (Adds color and aroma)

As I stood over a gently bubbling pot, the alluring aroma of roasted red bell peppers began to envelop my kitchen, instantly warming my heart. This Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup transforms simple ingredients into a bowl of pure comfort, featuring a creamy texture and a deliciously smoky flavor that feels just like a hug on a chilly day. With a quick prep time and easy-to-find ingredients, it’s perfect for those weeknights when you crave something hearty, yet effortlessly satisfying. Plus, the options for variations are endless, whether you’re looking to spice it up or give it a fresh twist with tomatoes. Ready to elevate your soup game? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Soup So Irresistible?

Creamy Texture: Each spoonful envelops your palate in velvety delight, making it a true indulgence on cold nights.
Smoky Depth: The roasted red peppers impart an irresistible smokiness that elevates this soup from ordinary to extraordinary.
Quick Prep: With minimal effort, you can whip up this comforting dish, perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Serve it at your next gathering, and watch as everyone savors each hearty serving, just like they do with my popular Cheddar Garlic Soup.
Versatile Variations: Feeling adventurous? Try adding chipotle for heat or crushed tomatoes for a tangy twist.
Ideal Pairing: Enjoy it alongside crunchy grilled cheese croutons or crusty bread for a satisfying meal that warms your soul!

Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Ingredients

Let’s gather the essentials for this cozy dish!

For the Soup Base

Red Bell Peppers – The star ingredient that provides smoky sweetness; ensure they are well-charred for the best flavor.
Olive Oil – Helps roast the peppers and enhances flavor; feel free to substitute with any vegetable oil.
Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor during roasting; regular salt can be used, but you may need to adjust the amount.
Butter (3 tbsp) – Adds richness to the soup; can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
Yellow Onion – Offers a base sweet flavor; shallots work as a tasty substitute if desired.
Garlic (4 cloves) – Imparts aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is best for a robust taste.

For the Thickening

All-Purpose Flour (2 tbsp) – Thickens the soup to create that creamy consistency.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth (4 cups) – Serves as the liquid base; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

For the Creamy Finish

Aged Gouda (2 cups, shredded) – Delivers a delightful creaminess; young gouda is suitable but lacks depth.
Smoked Paprika (1 tsp) – Elevates the smoky flavor of the soup; regular paprika can substitute if preferred.
Fresh Thyme (1 tbsp) – Adds an earthy essence; dried thyme can be used if fresh is unavailable.
Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Adjust seasoning to taste; always a welcome addition for flavor enhancement.
Heavy Cream (optional, ¼ cup) – Makes the soup extra creamy; feel free to omit for a lighter version.

For Garnish

Fresh Basil (¼ cup) – Adds a pop of color and fresh aroma to the bowl; a beautiful finishing touch!

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to crafting this delightful Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup!

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your broiler. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Slice the red bell peppers in half and remove the seeds. Arrange them cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil and a sprinkle of kosher salt to enhance their flavor.

Step 2: Char the Peppers
Place the baking sheet under the broiler and roast the red bell peppers for 12–15 minutes, or until they are blistered and charred. Keep an eye on them and turn occasionally for even charring. Once they look beautifully blackened, carefully remove them from the oven and transfer into a bowl, covering it with a lid or plastic wrap for steaming.

Step 3: Steam and Peel
Allow the charred peppers to steam in the covered bowl for about 10 minutes. This process will loosen the skin, making it easier to peel. After steaming, unwrap the bowl and gently peel off the skins. Chop the roasted peppers into bite-sized pieces and set them aside for later.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
In a large Dutch oven, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced yellow onion and sauté for 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This step will create a flavorful base for your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup.

Step 5: Add Garlic
Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for about 1 minute, just until the garlic releases its aromatic fragrance. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as this can create a bitter taste. This step adds richness to the soup, enhancing the layers of flavor within.

Step 6: Create the Roux
Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes. This will create a roux, which is essential for giving your soup a creamy consistency. The mixture should bubble gently and be lightly golden before moving on to the next step.

Step 7: Build the Soup
Gradually whisk in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring no lumps remain from the roux. Stir until the mixture starts to thicken slightly. Now, it’s time to incorporate the chopped roasted peppers, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper to season.

Step 8: Simmer and Blend
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a richer taste. Be sure to stir occasionally. After simmering, it’s time to blend the soup until it’s completely smooth.

Step 9: Blend to Perfection
Using an immersion blender directly in the pot, blend the soup until it reaches a silky consistency. If using a standard blender, carefully blend in batches, returning each batch to the pot afterward. The final result should be a beautifully smooth Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup that looks inviting.

Step 10: Add Gouda
Return the blended soup to low heat and slowly stir in 2 cups of shredded aged gouda cheese. Keep stirring gently for 3-4 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is creamy. This step is critical for achieving that dreamy, velvety texture in every bowl.

Step 11: Final Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as desired, adding extra salt or pepper if needed. If you prefer a richer flavor, slowly stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream at this stage. This optional step adds an extra layer of creaminess to your already indulgent Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup.

Step 12: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh basil for an aromatic touch. Serve your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup hot, alongside grilled cheese croutons or crusty bread, transforming dinner into a heartwarming experience for everyone.

Make Ahead Options

These Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can roast and char the red bell peppers up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can sauté the onions and garlic up to 3 days prior, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the soup base, blend in the roasted peppers, and gradually stir in shredded gouda over low heat until melted. This way, you’ll whip up a comforting, restaurant-worthy soup with minimal fuss, providing warmth and satisfaction right when you need it!

Expert Tips for Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup

Char for Flavor: Make sure to thoroughly char the red bell peppers. This step enhances the smoky flavor and sweetness that makes the soup special.
Freshly Shredded Gouda: Always opt for freshly shredded gouda instead of pre-shredded to prevent a grainy texture in your soup.
Low Heat for Cheese: When adding gouda, keep the heat low to ensure the cheese melts smoothly without separating.
Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste the soup as it simmers; adjust seasonings gradually to keep the flavors balanced in your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup.
Garnish for Freshness: Finish with fresh basil right before serving for a pop of color and freshness that elevates the dish.

Variations & Substitutions for Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup

Feel free to experiment with these delicious variations and tailor this comforting soup to your taste buds!

Spicy Gouda Soup: Add chipotle peppers during blending for a delightful kick. This spicy twist elevates the soup to a whole new level, perfect for those who love heat!
Tomato Red Pepper Soup: Replace some broth with crushed tomatoes for a tangy twist. The vibrant addition of tomatoes balances the smoky flavor of the peppers beautifully.
Quick Weeknight Version: Use jarred roasted red peppers to skip the roasting step. This quick swap keeps the flavor intact and makes dinner a breeze on busy nights.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute aged gouda with a blend of cashew cream and nutritional yeast for a creamy texture without the dairy. It’s a wonderful option for those with dietary sensitivities.
Herb-Infused Flavor: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end for vibrant freshness. This will brighten the flavor of your soup and elevate its presentation!
Smoky Bacon Alternative: For a non-vegetarian twist, add crispy bacon bits as a garnish. The salty, smoky flavor takes the satisfaction up a notch, perfect for meat lovers.
Creamy Coconut Spin: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich, tropical twist. It will give your soup an unexpected layer of sweetness and flavor.
Extra Veggies: Toss in some sautéed carrots or spinach to amp up the nutrition. Adding vegetables not only enhances the texture but makes the soup even heartier.

Explore these variations and feel free to mix and match according to your cravings! You might even find inspiration for pairings like grilled cheese croutons or a side of my Crockpot Thai Soup or Honey Curry Roasted for a complete meal. Enjoy!

What to Serve with Rich Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup?

Nothing complements this velvety, smoky soup quite like the right sides.

Grilled Cheese Croutons: Each bite offers a delightful crunch and gooeyness, perfect for dipping into the smooth soup.
Crusty French Bread: A rustic loaf adds texture and absorbs the soup’s creamy goodness, enhancing the overall experience.
Garden Salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast that brightens your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Their caramelized sweetness perfectly pairs with the smoky notes of the soup, creating a satisfying medley of flavors.
Chardonnay: This wine’s clean acidity cuts through the creaminess, enhancing the rich flavors without overwhelming the palate.
Apple Crisp: A warm dessert featuring tender apples and a crunchy topping harmonizes beautifully with the cozy soup, rounding out your meal with a touch of sweetness.

How to Store and Freeze Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup

Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. It may thicken as it sits, so consider adding a splash of broth when reheating.

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

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave for a quick thaw. When reheating on the stove, stir in a little broth to restore creaminess.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the soup in advance for busy days; just remember to let it cool completely before storing for best results with flavor and texture.

Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of red bell peppers should I use?
Absolutely! Look for red bell peppers that are firm, shiny, and free from dark spots or soft areas. Ideally, you want peppers that are deep red, which means they are ripe and have developed the sweetest flavor possible. Roasting well-charred peppers enhances their natural sweetness and smokiness, so always aim for the best quality when selecting your ingredients!

How should I store leftover soup?
For the best results, store the Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It may thicken a bit as it sits, so don’t hesitate to add a splash of broth when reheating to bring that creamy texture back!

Can I freeze Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup?
Definitely! You can freeze your soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space at the top to allow for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave if you need it sooner. Reheat on the stove and stir in a little broth to get that luscious creaminess back!

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find your soup has become too thick, simply add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Warm the soup slowly over low heat while stirring, ensuring the added liquid is fully incorporated. This way, you’ll keep the delicious flavor intact while achieving the perfect texture!

Are there dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free option, you can replace the butter with olive oil and omit the heavy cream. You can also substitute aged gouda with a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well. Just be careful with allergies; always check the labels on your ingredients like broth and any pre-packaged items.

What variations can I try with this recipe?
The options are endless! If you want a spicy kick, consider adding chipotle peppers when blending, or if you’re looking for a tangy twist, replace some of the broth with crushed tomatoes. For a super quick version, feel free to use jarred roasted red peppers instead of roasting your own. The more the merrier when it comes to customization!