Creamy Cauliflower Soup with Bacon

Ingredients

• 8 slices Fischer's Bacon, chopped and divided
• 1/2 small onion, chopped OR 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• salt & pepper
• 4 cups shredded or grated cauliflower (1/2 large head)
• 2 Tablespoons water
• 2 Tablespoons gluten-free or all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth, divided
• 2 cups 2% milk
• 3-4 dashes hot sauce (or more or less)
• 2-1/2 cups (12oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 green onions, chopped (optional)

Directions

1. Whisk together flour and 1/4 cup chicken broth in a small bowl then set aside.
2. Fry bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crisp. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.
3. Add chopped onion, celery, and garlic to the pot; season with salt and pepper and saute until vegetables are tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add cauliflower and onion powder to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Add water and place a lid on top to steam cauliflower until tender, stirring a couple times, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add remaining chicken broth and milk then bring to a boil.
7. Slowly whisk in flour/chicken broth mixture while stirring, then turn down heat and simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until chowder has thickened.
8. Turn off heat then stir in 2 cups cheddar cheese a little at a time until smooth.
9. Stir in half the cooked bacon. Add salt, pepper, and/or hot sauce to taste.
10. Top with remaining shredded cheese, cooked bacon and green onions.