This Jalapeno Popper Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s creamy, cheesy, and has just the right kick from jalapenos. Perfect for cozy nights or a fun twist on your favorite appetizer!
I love topping it with crunchy bacon bits and extra cheese. It makes the soup feel extra special! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so you can enjoy it any day! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Bacon adds a great crunch and smoky flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon or even vegetarian bacon can work here. Just make sure to cook it until crispy!
Jalapenos: These bring the heat! If you’re looking for a milder soup, use fewer jalapenos or replace them with bell peppers. Pickled jalapenos are a fun twist for a tangy flavor.
Heavy Cream: This gives the soup its rich and creamy texture. If you’re watching calories, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but it may be slightly less creamy.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is the go-to for its strong flavor. If you can’t find it, other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack will add a delicious spin too!
How Do You Make Creamy Soup Without Lumps?
To achieve a smooth, creamy soup, it’s key to blend the cream cheese smoothly. Here’s how:
- Soften the cream cheese to room temperature before adding it. This makes it easier to mix in.
- Add it to the pot after lowering the heat, so it doesn’t curdle.
- Use an immersion blender for the potatoes and jalapenos if you prefer a smoother texture. Just be careful – hot soup can splash!
With these steps, you’ll have a deliciously creamy jalapeno popper soup every time!
Jalapeno Popper Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3-4 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped (adjust to taste)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sour cream
- Sliced fresh jalapenos
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 30 minutes in total: 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick, hearty, and perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crisp. Once it’s done, take the bacon out, crumble it, and set it aside. Keep about 1-2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the pot for flavor!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook it in the bacon fat for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to become soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and chopped jalapenos, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is fragrant!
3. Add the Potatoes and Broth:
Next, toss in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15 minutes.
4. Make it Creamy:
Once the potatoes are soft, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese and mix until it’s completely melted and smooth. This will help create that creamy texture we all love!
5. Add the Cream and Cheese:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. If you want it thinner, just add a little more broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Once you’re happy with the flavor, it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with the reserved bacon, any remaining cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, sour cream, and jalapeno slices if you like a little more heat!
Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Jalapeno Popper Soup with all its cheesy, spicy goodness!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or Pepper Jack for additional spiciness. Just ensure the cheese melts well for a creamy texture!
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
If you’re looking for more heat, consider adding additional jalapenos (keeping the seeds if you love spice!), a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce. Adjust according to your spice tolerance and preference!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the bacon with a plant-based bacon alternative or simply omit it. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and consider adding some extra veggies for texture and flavor, like corn or bell peppers.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. If it thickens while cooling, you can add a bit of broth or cream while reheating to bring back the creamy texture!
