Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup with Grilled Cheese Dippers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of jalapeños, smoked paprika, and cheddar cheese creates a soup that's both spicy and savory.

• Creamy Texture: Cream cheese and cheddar melt into the broth, providing a velvety consistency.

• Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners.

• Customizable Heat: Adjust the number of jalapeños to suit your spice preference.

• Perfect Pairing: Grilled cheese dippers complement the soup, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 2 cups cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Grilled Cheese Dippers:

• Sandwich bread

• Butter

• Melty cheese of your choice (cheddar, mozzarella, or American)

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the pot. Increase the heat slightly and bring the broth to a gentle simmer.

3. Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and incorporated.

4. Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, and smoked paprika. Stir until the cheddar is melted and the soup becomes thick and velvety. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes.

5. For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend to your preferred texture. Leave it chunky if you prefer more texture.

6. While the soup simmers, prepare the grilled cheese sandwiches. Butter the bread, place cheese between slices, and cook on a skillet until golden brown. Cut into strips for dipping.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Milder Version: Use fewer jalapeños or substitute with mild green chilies.

• Extra Smoky: Add a pinch of chipotle powder or roasted jalapeños.

• Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers or corn.

• Protein Boost: Add cooked, shredded chicken for a heartier soup.

• Bacon Addition: Top with crispy crumbled bacon for an extra savory twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze without the grilled cheese in portions for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I make this soup less spicy?

Yes, reduce the number of jalapeños or use mild green chilies.

Can I use pickled jalapeños instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Pickled jalapeños add a tangy flavor that complements the creaminess.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for cream cheese?

Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese or cashew cream.

How can I make the soup thicker?

Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water).

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it ahead without the grilled cheese and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I serve with this soup besides grilled cheese?

Crusty bread, tortilla chips, or a green salad.

Can I blend the soup for a smoother texture?

Yes, use an immersion blender to reach your desired smoothness.

How do I store leftover grilled cheese dippers?

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, but use gluten-free bread for the dippers if necessary.

Conclusion

This Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup with Grilled Cheese Dippers is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. Its creamy texture, combined with the heat from jalapeños and the richness of cheese, makes it a standout dish. Whether you're looking to spice up your dinner routine or impress guests with a unique appetizer, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy the perfect balance of spice and creaminess in every spoonful!

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Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup with Grilled Cheese Dippers

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A rich and creamy Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup inspired by the classic appetizer, paired with crispy grilled cheese dippers for a satisfying and comforting meal.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

2 cups cream cheese, softened

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Sandwich bread (for dippers)

Butter (for dippers)

Melty cheese of your choice (cheddar, mozzarella, or American, for dippers)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the pot and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and incorporated.
5. Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, and smoked paprika. Stir until the cheddar is melted and the soup becomes thick and velvety. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes.
6. Use an immersion blender for a smoother texture, or leave it chunky if preferred.
7. While the soup simmers, prepare the grilled cheese sandwiches: Butter the bread, place cheese between slices, and cook on a skillet until golden brown.
8. Cut grilled cheese into strips for dipping and serve alongside the soup.

Notes

• Adjust the number of jalapeños to control the spice level.
• Pickled jalapeños add a tangy twist.
• Add shredded chicken or crispy bacon for more protein.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze (without dippers) for up to 2 months.
• Reheat gently on the stove and add broth or milk if needed.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 980mg
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 21g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 85mg