Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup

Indulge in the comforting warmth and rich flavors of this Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup, a delightful twist on the classic appetizer. This creamy soup is packed with smoky bacon, fresh jalapeños, and a generous amount of cheese, making it a perfect dish for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends. Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Jump to Recipe

Ingredients

• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4-5 fresh jalapeños, seeded and diced (adjust based on heat preference)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the Bacon

Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pot and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. This will leave behind a delicious bacon grease that adds flavor to the soup, so don’t discard it—leave about 1 tablespoon in the pot for the next step.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the tablespoon of olive oil to the remaining bacon grease. Heat it over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften. Next, add the minced garlic, diced jalapeños, and red bell pepper. Sauté the mixture for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. The vibrant colors of the jalapeños and red bell pepper will brighten up the dish.

3. Add the Spices

Once the vegetables are softened, stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling adventurous!). Allow the spices to cook for about a minute, stirring constantly. This process, known as “blooming,” enhances the flavors of the spices, ensuring that your soup will be packed with taste.

4. Pour in the Broth

Now it’s time to add the chicken broth. Pour in the four cups, and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes; this will help the flavors meld beautifully together. As the soup simmers, you can smell the rich aromas wafting through your kitchen—this is a sure sign that you’re on the right track!

5. Cream It Up

Once the simmering time is up, reduce the heat to low. Carefully stir in the heavy cream and the cubed cream cheese. It’s essential to stir constantly as the cream cheese melts into the soup, creating a creamy and luscious texture. Once the cream cheese is fully melted, gradually add in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until everything is combined and beautifully melted. This cheese blend will give the soup its signature gooey richness.

6. Season to Perfection

Taste your soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preferences. Remember, the bacon adds saltiness, so adjust accordingly. You might also consider adding more spices if you desire an extra kick!

7. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the warm soup into bowls and top each serving with the crispy bacon pieces you set aside earlier. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped cilantro. This adds a bright, herbal note that balances the richness of the soup.

You might also enjoy this delicious dish!

Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

The BEST Crab Bisque

French Onion Soup

Cheesy Beef and Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe

Conclusion

This Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of flavors—smoky bacon, creamy cheese, and the distinctive heat from fresh jalapeños—creates a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty dinner on a chilly night or a party appetizer that will impress your guests, this soup will surely be a hit.

Pair it with crusty bread or tortilla chips for added texture, and consider serving it with a refreshing salad for a complete meal. You can also adjust the spice level to cater to your guests’ preferences, making it versatile for any crowd.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of this cheesy, spicy goodness. Your taste buds will thank you!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
Servings: 4 servings