Bacon-Cheddar Cauliflower Chowder - cooking recipe

Ingredients

8 slices center-cut bacon, chopped (half used for garnish)
1/2 small onions, chopped or 1 teaspoon onion powder
1 celery, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
salt & pepper
4 cups grated cauliflower or 1/2 large cauliflower head
2 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups 2% low-fat milk
2 cups chicken broth, divided
3 -4 dashes hot sauce (or more or less)
2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (half used for garnish)
2 green onions, chopped (optional)

Preparation

Whisk together flour and 1/4 cup chicken broth in a small bowl then set aside.
Saute bacon in a large soup pot over medium heat until crisp. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate then remove all but 1 Tablespoon drippings from the pot. 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.
Add cauliflower and onion powder (if using) to the pot then stir to combine. Add water then place a lid on top and steam cauliflower until tender, stirring a couple times, about 5-7 minutes. Add remaining chicken broth and milk then turn up heat and bring to a boil.
Slowly whisk in flour/chicken broth mixture while stirring, then turn down heat and simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until chowder has thickened. Turn off heat then stir in 2 cups cheddar cheese until smooth, then stir in half the cooked bacon. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and/or hot sauce if necessary. Serve topped with remaining shredded cheese, cooked bacon, and green onions, if desired.
NOTE: Use a food processor's chopping and grating blades to make prepping veggies and cheese a breeze.