Cheesy Bacon Cauliflower Chowder

Ingredients

• 8-10 slices center-cut bacon, chopped (half used for garnish) (I used 10)
• ½ small onion, chopped OR 1 teaspoon onion powder (I used onion)
• 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 flour
• 2 cups chicken broth, divided
• 2 cups 1% milk
• 3-4 dashes hot sauce (or more or less) (I used more)
• 2-1/2 cups (12oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (half used for garnish)

Instructions

1. Whisk together flour and ¼ cup chicken broth in a small bowl then set aside

2. Saute bacon in a large soup pot over medium heat until crisp

3. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate then remove all but 1 Tablespoon drippings from the pot

4. Add chopped onion (if using,) celery, and garlic to the pot then season with salt and pepper and saute until vegetables are tender, about 4-5 minutes

5. Add cauliflower and onion powder (if using) to the pot then stir to combine

6. Add water then place a lid on top and steam cauliflower until tender, stirring a couple times, about 5-7 minutes

7. Add remaining chicken broth and milk then turn up heat and bring to a boil

8. Slowly whisk in flour/chicken broth mixture while stirring, then turn down heat and simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until chowder has thickened

9. Turn off heat then stir in 2 cups cheddar cheese until smooth, then stir in half the cooked bacon

10. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and/or hot sauce if necessary

11. Serve topped with remaining shredded cheese and cooked bacon