Description
This Creamy Garlic Bread Soup is a rich, velvety dish that captures all the flavors of buttery, cheesy garlic bread in a comforting soup. Made with roasted garlic, Parmesan cheese, and crispy homemade croutons, this easy soup recipe is perfect for garlic lovers and a cozy meal any time of year.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- Garlic heads, roasted
- Butter
- Onion, diced
- Flour (for thickening)
- Chicken or vegetable broth
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and black pepper
- Dried thyme (optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Homemade Croutons:
- Baguette or bread of choice, cubed
- Olive oil or melted butter
- Garlic powder
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and black pepper
Instructions
For the Soup:
- Roast the Garlic: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the tops off garlic heads, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35-40 minutes until soft and golden. Let cool, then squeeze out the cloves.
- Sauté the Onion: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle in flour, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Add Garlic and Broth: Stir in roasted garlic and pour in broth. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender to puree until smooth.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and red pepper flakes.
- Serve Hot: Garnish with extra cheese and homemade croutons.
For the Croutons:
- Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Bread Cubes: Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Bake: Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, turning once, until golden and crispy.
- Cool & Serve: Let cool slightly before topping the soup.
Notes
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
- Cheesier Version: Add extra Parmesan or mozzarella for a gooey texture.
- Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh basil, rosemary, or oregano for extra depth.
- Protein Boost: Stir in shredded chicken or crumbled bacon.
