Craving comfort food with a kick? Look no further! This spicy jalapeno popper soup is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and fiery jalapeno heat. It’s surprisingly easy to make, ready in under 30 minutes, and guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Whether you're looking for healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, or simply delicious dishes, this recipe delivers on all fronts. It's the best of homemade cooking, without the fuss.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chilies, undrained
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced (remove less seeds for less heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a vegan option
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled bacon (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Soup Base: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes and green chilies, and chopped green chilies. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the minced jalapeno pepper and season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Stir in Cream and Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese until completely melted and smooth. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream until well combined. Be careful not to let the soup boil.
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Add Cheese and Bacon (optional): Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. If using, add the crumbled bacon during the last minute of cooking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Adjust the Heat: Control the spiciness by adjusting the amount of jalapeno pepper you use. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder soup.
- Creamy Texture: For an extra creamy soup, use full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream.
- Make it Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors will deepen overnight!
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Garnish Ideas: Get creative with your garnishes! Consider adding sour cream, avocado slices, or chopped green onions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on ingredients used)
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Protein: Approximately 15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10g
Variations:
- Vegetarian Jalapeno Popper Soup: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit the bacon.
- Buffalo Jalapeno Popper Soup: Add a tablespoon or two of your favorite buffalo wing sauce for extra flavor and heat.
- Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Soup: Add an extra ½ cup of shredded cheese for a truly cheesy experience.
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. The satisfying blend of creamy cheese, spicy jalapenos, and savory bacon makes it a delicious and filling meal the whole family will love. Enjoy!