Fiery Comfort: Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup is a bold, creamy concoction that transforms the beloved flavors of jalapeño poppers into a warming, indulgent soup. This dish is a dream come true for those who crave the spicy kick of jalapeños combined with the creamy richness of cheese. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re in the mood for something with a bit of zest, this soup delivers comfort with an edge, offering a satisfying heat that’s as invigorating as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup:
- Bold and Spicy: Packed with the fiery taste of fresh jalapeños, this soup doesn’t shy away from flavor.
- Creamy and Comforting: A rich, cheesy broth provides the perfect counterbalance to the spice, creating a harmonious blend of tastes.
- Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a hearty meal on busy nights.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spiciness to your liking, ensuring everyone can enjoy this tasty treat.
Ingredients Notes For Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup:
- Jalapeños: The star of the show, providing that distinctive spicy flavor. Remove seeds to reduce heat if desired.
- Cream Cheese and Cheddar: Melt into the soup for a creamy, cheesy base that mimics the filling of a jalapeño popper.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Forms the liquid base of the soup, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory element to the dish.
- Onion and Garlic: Aromatics that build depth and complexity in the flavor profile.
- Seasonings: Cumin, salt, and pepper to taste, complementing the spicy, cheesy notes.
Recipe Steps:
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, cook chopped onions, garlic, and diced jalapeños until softened.
- Cook the Bacon: Add bacon to the pot and cook until crispy. Remove some bacon for garnish if desired.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Blend in Cheeses: Stir in chunks of cream cheese and shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.
- Season: Add cumin, salt, and pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with reserved bacon, extra jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerate: Keep the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.
How to Make Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup
Ingredients
Scale
- 6–8 fresh jalapeños, diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 pound cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cook the bacon until crispy, crumble it, and set aside. Dice the jalapeños, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced jalapeños and minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Cream Cheese:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the cubes of cream cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
- Blend the Soup (Optional):
- For a smoother texture, you can blend the soup using an immersion blender or carefully transfer it to a blender to process until smooth. Return the soup to the pot.
- Add Cream and Cheeses:
- Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
- Season and Serve:
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon, fresh cilantro, and additional jalapeños if desired.
