Name: Heavenly Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 large Red Bell Peppers (for maximum sweetness and smokiness); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for roasting); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 2 tablespoons Butter (do not brown it); 1 cup Yellow Onion, diced (sauté until translucent); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour (to thicken the soup); 4 cups Broth (Chicken/Vegetable) (for base); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika; 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme Leaves; to taste Black Pepper; 1 cup Aged Gouda, shredded (for creaminess); 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (optional, for extra creaminess); to taste Fresh Basil (for garnish); 1 cup Grilled Cheese Croutons (for crunchy texture); 1 cup Crispy Prosciutto (for savory crunch)

As I took my first spoonful of this silky Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup, a warm wave of comfort enveloped me like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. The rich, smoky sweetness of charred red peppers blends beautifully with the nutty gouda, creating a soup that’s both creamy and indulgent without any heavy cream. In under an hour, you too can whip up this easy, vegetarian dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen – perfect for those evenings when you crave something heartwarming but don’t want to spend all night cooking. With endless possibilities for tailored variations, like a spicy gouda addition or a tangy tomato twist, why not stir up a pot tonight? What will your perfect bowl look like?

Why Is This Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting, perfect for chilly nights when you need something warm and satisfying. Flavors explode with the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers and the nutty richness of gouda. Quick and easy, this soup can be made in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Versatile options allow you to customize it to your liking, whether you prefer a spicy gouda kick or a lighter tomato variation. Pair it with crispy prosciutto or flavorful grilled cheese croutons for a delightful meal. Enjoy gourmet-quality dining right at home with this delightful soup!

Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Ingredients

For the Soup

Red Bell Peppers – The key flavor component, choose large ones for maximum sweetness and smokiness.
Olive Oil – Essential for roasting and enhances the rich flavor profile of the soup.
Kosher Salt – Enhances the natural flavors of all ingredients for a balanced dish.
Butter – Adds richness; be careful not to brown it while melting.
Yellow Onion – Provides a savory base; sauté until translucent for optimal sweetness.
Garlic – Infuses aromatic depth; avoid browning to keep its flavor smooth.
All-Purpose Flour – Creates a roux to thicken the soup to a perfect creamy consistency.
Broth (Chicken/Vegetable) – The base for the soup; chicken broth offers depth, while vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian.
Smoked Paprika – Adds a smoky note that perfectly complements the roasted peppers.
Fresh Thyme Leaves – Brightens the flavor profile with herbal accents.
Black Pepper – Adds just the right amount of spice; adjust based on your taste.
Aged Gouda – The star of the show; shred your own for the creamiest consistency.
Heavy Cream (Optional) – Adds luxurious richness; not necessary but enhances creaminess if desired.
Fresh Basil – A finishing touch for vibrant flavor and color, elevating your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup.

For Serving (Optional)

Grilled Cheese Croutons – Provide a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.
Crispy Prosciutto – Adds a savory crunch for an elevated dining experience.

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your broiler to high. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. While the broiler heats up, prepare your red bell peppers by washing them thoroughly and cutting them in half to remove the seeds. This leads to a rich, smoky flavor in your roasted red pepper gouda soup.

Step 2: Roast the Peppers
Drizzle the halved peppers generously with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt. Place them skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet and slide it under the broiler. Roast the peppers for about 12–15 minutes, or until their skins are blackened and blistered. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect char for your flavorful soup.

Step 3: Steam and Peel
Once the peppers are roasted, carefully transfer them to a covered bowl to steam for 5–10 minutes. This will loosen the skins and make them easier to peel off. When cool enough to handle, peel away the charred skin, chop the peppers, and set them aside. This step is key to infusing the roasted red pepper gouda soup with deep, smoky flavors.

Step 4: Sauté Onions
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add your diced yellow onion and sauté for about 5–6 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. Be sure to stir occasionally for even cooking, as this will create a savory base for your soup and enhance the overall flavor.

Step 5: Add Garlic
Once the onions are ready, add 2 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from browning, which can impart a bitter taste. This aromatic infusion is essential for building the delicious complexity of your roasted red pepper gouda soup.

Step 6: Make the Roux
Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, whisking to form a roux. Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes, allowing the flour to blend well with the butter and onion. This step will thicken the soup while introducing a rich, flavorful base for all the other ingredients.

Step 7: Add Broth
Gradually pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the soup mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. This flavorful broth will provide the base for your roasted red pepper gouda soup, creating a silky texture when combined with the other ingredients.

Step 8: Combine and Simmer
Stir in the chopped roasted red peppers, along with 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to mingle beautifully.

Step 9: Blend until Smooth
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and velvety. Alternatively, you can transfer the mixture in batches to a traditional blender. This step is crucial for achieving the desired creamy consistency in your roasted red pepper gouda soup, ensuring it’s pleasant to enjoy.

Step 10: Stir in Gouda
Once blended, return the soup to low heat and gradually stir in 1 cup of shredded aged gouda. Mix continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the soup becomes luxuriously creamy. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary; this is about making the perfect roasted red pepper gouda soup to your liking!

Step 11: Finish and Serve
If desired, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream for an extra creamy finish and garnish with fresh basil right before serving. Ladle the comforting soup into bowls, and consider adding crunchy elements like grilled cheese croutons or crispy prosciutto for a delightful texture. Enjoy your homemade masterpiece!

Expert Tips for Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup

Char the Peppers Well: Ensure your red bell peppers are well-charred under the broiler for a deeper smoky flavor; don’t settle for under-roasted skins.
Freshly Shred Gouda: Use freshly shredded aged gouda instead of pre-shredded for the creaminess you want in your roasted red pepper gouda soup.
Control the Heat: Melt the gouda over low heat to avoid graininess; high heat can ruin that silky texture you’re aiming for.
Taste As You Go: Since broth and gouda can vary in saltiness, taste the soup during cooking to adjust seasoning accordingly.
Blend to Perfection: Ensure your soup is blended until completely smooth; this is key to achieving that velvety consistency that makes this soup irresistible.

Make Ahead Options

These Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup preps are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can roast and chop the red peppers, and even sauté the onions and garlic, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, bring the sautéed mixture back to heat, add the broth, and then stir in your previously roasted peppers. This method ensures you keep the deep, smoky flavor intact while saving you precious time on a busy weeknight. Finish by blending and melting in the gouda, and you’ll have a warm, comforting dish that’s just as delicious as if made from scratch that very day!

How to Store and Freeze Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup

Refrigerator: Keep 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: Store your roasted red pepper gouda soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Make sure there’s room for expansion when freezing.
Reheating: Gently reheat on low heat on the stovetop to prevent the cheese from separating. If it’s too thick, stir in some extra broth to achieve your desired consistency.

Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Variations

Feel free to get playful and customize your Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup to match your cravings and dietary needs!

Spicy Gouda Soup: Add chipotle peppers for a smoky heat that elevates the flavor profile. Perfect for spice lovers!
Tomato Red Pepper Twist: Substitute some broth with crushed tomatoes for a tangy and comforting experience. This variation offers a delicious depth of flavor.
White Cheddar Version: Swap out the gouda for sharp white cheddar for a completely different, yet equally delightful flavor profile. This creates a sharp and rich soup that’s equally comforting.
Store-Bought Short Cut: For a quick weeknight meal, use jarred roasted red peppers instead of fresh. This speeds up cooking while retaining that wonderful smoky flavor.
Extra Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for an even more indulgent experience. This brings an extra level of richness that’s truly luxurious.
Herbed Infusion: Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a refreshing twist. Not only do they enhance the soup’s flavor, but they also add vibrancy!
Nutty Flavor Boost: Toss in a tablespoon of tahini or almond butter for a nutty depth that pairs beautifully with the gouda. This is a unique twist worth trying!
Vegetable Medley: Sneak in some diced carrots or celery while sautéing the onions for added texture and flavor. This makes your soup even more hearty and nutritious!

If you’re looking for something to pair with this luscious soup, consider delicious options like grilled cheese croutons or crispy prosciutto. These additions will certainly elevate your dining experience!

What to Serve with Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup

Picture this: a bowl of velvety soup in your hands, surrounded by flavors that warm you from the inside out. Let’s create the perfect meal!

Grilled Cheese Croutons: Slice up your favorite bread with gooey cheese and grill it to golden perfection for a crunchy dip into your soup.
Crispy Prosciutto: The salty crunch of prosciutto complements the creamy soup beautifully, offering contrasting textures that elevate your dining experience.
Garlic Bread: Soft and buttery with a touch of garlic, this classic side adds a fragrant element that balances the soup’s rich flavors.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh, vibrant salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the creaminess, providing a refreshing palate cleanser.
Spicy Pickles: For a tangy kick, spicy pickles add a burst of flavor that contrasts nicely with the smoothness of the soup.
Wine Pairing: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc harmonizes wonderfully with the smoky notes, enhancing every sip of the roasted red pepper gouda soup.
Fresh Basil Salad: Toss together basil with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella for a light side that echoes the soup’s herbal notes.
Crusty Artisan Roll: A warm roll, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit of your delicious soup, provides essential comfort and satisfaction.
Dessert: Conclude your meal with a slice of light berry tart; the sweetness and acidity of the berries offer a delightful ending to warm flavors.
Iced Tea: Refreshing iced tea with a hint of lemon can balance out the richness, making the entire meal feel just right.

Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best red bell peppers for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your roasted red pepper gouda soup, look for large, firm red bell peppers that are vibrant in color and free from blemishes. The sweeter the pepper, the more delicious your soup will be, so avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles.

What is the best way to store leftover soup?
Very! Store your roasted red pepper gouda soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. As it rests, it may thicken, so feel free to add a splash of broth when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.

Can I freeze roasted red pepper gouda soup?
Yes! You can freeze your soup for up to 3 months. To do this, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers, ensuring there’s enough space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.

What should I do if my soup becomes too thick after cooking?
Not a problem! If your soup is too thick after cooking or upon reheating, just add a splash of broth and stir until you reach your desired consistency. It’s all about getting it just right for those cozy nights!

Are there any dietary considerations for this soup?
Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian, but if you want to keep it vegan, replace the butter with olive oil and use a plant-based alternative for the gouda. Always check for any potential allergens in broth and cheese if serving to guests with allergies.