4–5 medium red bell peppers (halved, seeds removed)
1 medium sweet onion, chopped
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups low-sodium vegetable (or chicken) broth
1 to 1½ cups shredded gouda cheese
½ to 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
1–2 tbsp butter or olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: smoked paprika, cayenne, fresh herbs or croutons for garnish
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast pepper halves skin side up for 20–25 minutes until blistered. Steam under cover 5 minutes, then peel skins and chop.
In a large pot, melt butter or heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion 5–7 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add roasted peppers and 3 cups broth. Bring to simmer and cook 8–10 minutes.
Blend soup until smooth (immersion blender or stand blender in batches). Return to pot.
Over low heat, stir in gouda cheese until melted. Then stir in cream or milk until smooth. Adjust seasoning.
Warm gently (do not boil). Serve with herbs or extra cheese.
Use an immersion blender for easier blending with less mess.
Roast extra peppers ahead to reduce prep time later.
Add smoked paprika or a bit of cayenne for depth or warmth.
If soup is too thick, thin with extra broth or milk.
Reheat gently; avoid boiling.