Broccoli Cauliflower with Cheese and Sausage Delight (Print version)

A hearty broccoli cauliflower cheese soup with browned smoked sausage, sharp cheddar, cream, and crisp bacon.

# Ingredients:

For the soup

01 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
02 - 14 oz (400 g) fully cooked smoked sausage, sliced into half-moons
03 - 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 4 cups (950 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
06 - 3 cups (270 g) broccoli florets
07 - 4 cups (400 g) cauliflower florets
08 - 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
09 - 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter
10 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard or Dijon mustard
12 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
13 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
14 - 2 cups (225 g) freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese

For serving

15 - 4 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
16 - 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, optional
17 - Extra grated cheddar, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring once or twice, until browned at the edges. Transfer to a plate.
02 - Add the onion to the same pot and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
03 - Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pot. Add broccoli and cauliflower, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook for 6-8 minutes until the florets are fork-tender but not mushy.
04 - Reduce the heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, butter, thyme, mustard, salt, and pepper. Warm gently for 2 minutes without boiling.
05 - Add the cheddar a handful at a time, stirring until melted before adding more. Keep the heat low so the soup stays smooth.
06 - Return the browned sausage to the pot and warm for 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Serve hot with chopped bacon, parsley, and extra cheddar if desired.

# Good to know:

01 - Use a gluten-free smoked sausage and broth if serving gluten-free eaters.
02 - For a thicker soup, mash a few cauliflower florets against the side of the pot before adding cheese.
03 - Best reheated gently over low heat with a splash of broth or cream.

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