This Jalapeno Popper Soup is a warm, creamy treat with a spicy kick that’s sure to please! It’s filled with the flavors of cheese, jalapenos, and crispy bacon.
Every spoonful is like a cozy hug, and who can resist that cheesy goodness topped with crunchy bits? I love enjoying it with some crusty bread for dipping. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: This adds a great smoky flavor. If you want to keep it lighter, consider turkey bacon or skip it entirely for a vegetarian version. You can also use pancetta for a different taste!
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos contribute heat and flavor. If they’re too spicy for your taste, bell peppers can be used instead, or you can reduce the number of jalapenos added.
Cream Cheese: Essential for that rich, creamy texture. Try using low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative, but this may slightly alter the flavor.
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack offer flavor and gooeyness. Feel free to substitute with any cheese you enjoy, like Gouda or Pepper Jack for additional spice!
Chicken Broth: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works just as well and is easier to find!
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Base?
The creamy texture of this soup is key, and the method helps ensure everything blends well together. Here’s what to focus on:
- After sautéing the veggies, gradually stir in cream cheese over low heat. This prevents it from clumping and allows it to melt evenly.
- When adding the milk and heavy cream, do so slowly while constantly stirring. This helps to mix everything seamlessly.
- Monterey Jack and cheddar should be added last for a smoother melt; make sure they are shredded for quick melting.
Simmer gently after adding the dairy to avoid curdling. Enjoy your creamy soup!
How to Make Jalapeno Popper Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4-5 fresh jalapenos, seeded and diced (keep some seeds for extra heat if desired)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives (plus extra for garnish)
- For Topping:
- Sour cream
- Jalapeno slices
- Toasted bread slices or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Jalapeno Popper Soup takes about 15-20 minutes of preparation and cooking time. Just a few simple steps and you’ll have a hearty, flavor-packed soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon using a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Make sure to leave about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot for flavor.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion, jalapenos, and garlic to the pot with the bacon fat. Sauté over medium heat until they are softened and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes. Just keep stirring to avoid burning!
3. Add Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow all those delicious jalapeno flavors to really shine through.
4. Melt the Cream Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese cubes. Keep stirring until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. This will give you that creamy base!
5. Add Dairy and Cheeses:
Now add the whole milk, heavy cream, shredded cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese. Stir continuously until all the cheese has melted and the soup is wonderfully creamy. Yum!
6. Season and Stir:
Season your soup with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you like. Stir in the chopped green onions for a bit of freshness.
7. Simmer:
Let the soup simmer gently for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure everything is well blended.
8. Serve:
Now it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a dollop of sour cream, crispy bacon pieces, extra shredded cheddar, sliced jalapenos, and chopped green onions.
9. Enjoy!
Serve immediately with toasted bread slices or crackers on the side for dipping. This creamy, spicy, cheesy goodness is sure to warm you up from the inside out!
Enjoy your Jalapeno Popper Soup!
Can I Use Low-Fat Dairy Products?
Absolutely! You can use low-fat milk and cream cheese if you prefer a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the soup may be slightly less creamy.
What If I Can’t Tolerate Spicy Food?
No worries! You can reduce or completely omit the jalapenos. You can also substitute them with bell peppers for added sweetness without the heat.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream to bring back the creaminess if needed.
Can I Freeze Jalapeno Popper Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It should keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
