This Jalapeno Popper Soup is a fun twist on the classic appetizer! It’s creamy, cheesy, and has just the right kick from jalapenos. Yummy toppings like crispy bacon and crunchy chips make it even better.
You may find yourself wanting to eat this soup for every meal—it’s that good! Personally, I love to add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top. Who can resist more cheese? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds rich flavor to the soup. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or diced ham works well too.
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos are essential for that signature kick! If you prefer less heat, opt for mild peppers or use pickled jalapenos for a tangy twist.
Cream Cheese: The cream cheese gives this soup its creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese for vegan alternatives.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. Feel free to swap it with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a more pronounced spice.
Chicken:** If you’re looking to make this soup vegetarian, just skip the chicken. You can add more veggies like corn or beans for added texture and nutrition.
How Do You Make Sure the Soup is Creamy Without Clumping?
To achieve a smooth and creamy soup, avoid clumping by following these tips:
- When adding cream cheese, make sure it’s softened. This helps it blend into the soup more easily.
- Gradually whisk in the half-and-half or heavy cream. This prevents temperature shock and clumping.
- Stir continuously while adding the cheese, ensuring all ingredients mix well.
Taking these simple steps will help you achieve that dreamy creamy consistency!
Jalapeno Popper Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3-4 fresh jalapenos, seeded and chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups half-and-half or heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh chopped cilantro or chives
- Extra sliced jalapenos
- Tortilla chips or crushed crackers for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Jalapeno Popper Soup takes about 30-40 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and about 20-30 minutes cooking. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun meal with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Take the bacon out with a slotted spoon and set it aside. Leave the bacon drippings in the pot; they’ll add tasty flavor to the soup.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion and chopped jalapenos into the pot. Sauté them in the bacon fat for about 5 minutes until they’re soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until your kitchen smells amazing!
3. Thicken the Base:
Sprinkle the flour over the veggies and stir well to coat. Cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes, stirring often to make sure it’s smooth and to take away the raw flour taste.
4. Add the Chicken Broth:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to pick up any delicious browned bits. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Creamy Goodness:
Lower the heat and whisk in the half-and-half or heavy cream. Gradually add the cream cheese cubes, stirring until they melt completely and everything is creamy and smooth.
6. Cheese It Up:
Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and the cooked shredded chicken if you’re using it. Keep the heat low and let everything cook until the cheese melts and the soup is heated through. Add salt and black pepper to taste—give it a little taste test here!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, topped with the crispy bacon, remaining cheddar cheese, fresh chopped cilantro or chives, and extra sliced jalapenos for that additional kick! You can also serve it with tortilla chips or crushed crackers for a crunchy addition.
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, spicy soup inspired by the flavors of jalapeno poppers! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream or Milk Instead of Half-and-Half?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk or a lighter cream option! Just keep in mind that the soup may be slightly less creamy. If you go this route, add a bit more cream cheese to maintain the richness.
What If I Don’t Have Cream Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute the cream cheese with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Just stir it in at the end of cooking to avoid curdling.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and chicken. You can add more veggies, like corn or beans, for extra texture and nutrients. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
