If you’re craving something cozy, luscious, and just packed with flavor that warms you up from the inside out, this Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s an easy, weeknight-friendly dish that blends sweet, smoky roasted red peppers with the creamy, melty goodness of smoked gouda cheese. Every spoonful delivers a velvety texture brimming with vibrant color and subtle spice that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this soup always brings everyone back for seconds and keeps the kitchen smelling absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each contributing to the rich, smoky, and creamy flavor that defines the Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Recipe. From fresh veggies to the star smoky gouda, every element adds a special touch to the taste and texture.
- Olive oil: Provides a smooth base for sautéing and adds a hint of fruitiness.
- Butter: Brings richness and helps mellow out the vegetables’ flavors.
- Small white onion, roughly chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Carrots, roughly chopped: Offer natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Celery stalks, roughly chopped: Give a subtle earthiness and body to the soup.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Introduce a warm, aromatic layer.
- Paprika: Brings smoky warmth and enhances the roasted peppers’ flavor.
- Italian seasoning: Infuses herbal notes that balance the soup perfectly.
- Jarred roasted red peppers, drained and rinsed: The star ingredient full of sweet, smoky flavor with a tender bite.
- Sundried tomatoes: Add an extra punch of umami and a touch of sweetness.
- Vegetable stock: Creates the perfect liquid base, highlighting all the flavors.
- Heavy cream: Gives that rich, silky texture every creamy soup needs.
- Freshly shredded smoked gouda cheese: Melts into a dreamy, smoky finish that makes this soup unforgettable.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate and balance every bite.
How to Make Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables
Start by gathering and chopping your vegetables. Dice the onion, peel and roughly chop the carrots, chop the celery, and mince the garlic cloves. Taking a few minutes here to prep well makes the cooking process smooth and helps each vegetable release its flavors beautifully.
Step 2: Sauté the Base
In a large pot set over medium heat, melt the butter together with olive oil. Add the onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Then, toss in the carrots, celery, garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning, sautéing everything together for another 3 to 4 minutes. This step softens the veggies and layers the soup with aromatic warmth that you’ll love.
Step 3: Add Roasted Red Peppers and Stock
Drain and rinse the jarred roasted red peppers to wash away any brine, then add them to the pot along with sundried tomatoes and vegetable stock. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium to medium-high heat. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes until all the vegetables are fork-tender, which develops the deep flavors you crave.
Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until completely smooth and velvety. This transformation turns it into a creamy masterpiece that feels luscious on the palate with every spoonful.
Step 5: Incorporate Cream and Gouda Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream to bring luscious silkiness, followed by freshly shredded smoked gouda cheese. Keep stirring for a minute or two until the cheese is fully melted and integrated, wrapping the soup in a smoky, cheesy blanket that is downright addictive.
Step 6: Season and Adjust
Give your soup a taste and finish with salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed. This final seasoning step ensures every ingredient shines and balances perfectly, making the Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Recipe truly irresistible.
How to Serve Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to dress your soup up with a variety of garnishes. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a few croutons add delightful textures and freshness. For an extra cheesy kick, top with a little more shredded gouda or a swirl of cream.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with rustic bread like a crusty baguette or garlic bread. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette brightens the meal, or even a grilled cheese sandwich makes the perfect comfort food companion to scoop up every last drop.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup inside hollowed-out bread bowls for an edible, charming presentation. You can also drizzle balsamic glaze on top to add a subtle tangy contrast to the creamy richness, making each serving feel restaurant-quality and special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Recipe tastes fantastic the next day! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making reheated portions even better.
Freezing
To freeze, cool the soup completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat to avoid scorching. Stir occasionally and add a splash of vegetable stock or cream if it’s too thick. Avoid boiling once cheese is added to keep that smooth, creamy texture that makes this Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Recipe so comforting.
FAQs
Can I use fresh roasted red peppers instead of jarred?
Absolutely! Fresh roasted red peppers will add an even brighter flavor, but jarred peppers are fantastic for convenience and consistent taste. Just make sure to rinse them well to remove any brine.
Is smoked gouda necessary or can I substitute another cheese?
Smoked gouda is the soul of this soup, giving it that unique smoky, creamy character. However, you can substitute with other melty cheeses like cheddar or fontina if needed, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I make this soup vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, by swapping out the butter for olive oil, using coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and selecting a vegan smoked gouda alternative, you can enjoy a dairy-free version that still captures the spirit of the recipe.
How spicy is this soup?
The soup has a mild warmth thanks to the paprika and seasoning but is not spicy hot. It’s approachable for all palates and perfect for kids and adults alike.
Can I prepare this soup in advance for a party?
Definitely! This soup is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Just reheat gently before serving, and add the cheese at the end to keep everything creamy and luscious. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful soup that feels fancy but comes together easily, give this Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Recipe a try. It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel cozy, satisfied, and excited for every spoonful. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or looking to impress guests without fuss, this soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
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Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup is a rich, creamy, and smoky-flavored soup perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. Made with jarred roasted red peppers, smoky gouda cheese, and a medley of sautéed vegetables, this delicious soup blends comforting flavors with a smooth texture, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small white onion, roughly chopped
- 3 carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 stalks celery, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Spices
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Liquids and Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cups vegetable stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
Main Ingredients
- 32 oz jar roasted red peppers, drained and rinsed
- 4 sundried tomatoes
- 1 cup freshly shredded smoked gouda cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Dice the onion, peel and roughly chop the carrots, chop the celery, and mince the garlic.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Then add the carrots, celery, minced garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning, and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Add Peppers and Stock: Drain and rinse the roasted red peppers to remove any brine. Add the drained peppers, sundried tomatoes, and vegetable stock to the pot. Bring the soup to a simmer over medium to medium-high heat, allowing it to cook for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
- Blend the Soup: Remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it is smooth with no chunks remaining, resulting in a creamy and velvety texture.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream until fully combined. Then add the shredded smoked gouda cheese and stir for 1-2 minutes until the cheese has completely melted into the soup, enriching its flavor and texture.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning by adding salt and freshly cracked black pepper as desired. Serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative, though it will alter the flavor.
- Use low-sodium vegetable stock if you prefer a lighter sodium content.
- To intensify smoky flavor, you can smoke the peppers yourself or add a dash of smoked paprika.
- This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American