Print

Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup with Grilled Cheese Dippers

Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup with Grilled Cheese Dippers
Print Recipe

Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup with Grilled Cheese Dippers is a creamy, cheesy, and spicy soup that combines the heat of fresh jalapeños with rich cream cheese and sharp cheddar. Served with crispy golden grilled cheese strips for dipping, this comforting recipe balances bold flavors and smooth textures, perfect for chilly days or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Soup Ingredients

  • 2–3 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
  • 1 cup milk or heavy cream
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp butter or oil (for sautéing)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup bacon bits
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Grilled Cheese Dippers

  • 8 slices good quality sandwich bread
  • Butter, for spreading on bread
  • 4 oz melting cheese (sharp cheddar recommended, or blend with mozzarella/Monterey Jack)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Jalapeños and Aromatics: Finely chop fresh jalapeños, removing seeds if you want less heat. Sauté the jalapeños with diced onions and minced garlic in butter or oil over medium heat until fragrant and softened, about 3-5 minutes, building the soup’s flavor base.
  2. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to infuse the broth with jalapeño flavor.
  3. Incorporate Cream Cheese and Milk: Lower the heat and whisk in softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. Slowly add milk or heavy cream, stirring to create a rich and creamy soup base.
  4. Mix in Cheddar Cheese and Bacon: Gradually add shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted. If using, stir in crispy bacon bits. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Prepare the Grilled Cheese Dippers: Lightly butter the bread slices. Place your choice of melting cheese between two slices to form sandwiches. Grill in a skillet over medium heat until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted. Slice sandwiches into strips perfect for dipping.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the spicy jalapeño popper soup into bowls and serve hot alongside the grilled cheese dippers for dipping into the creamy, cheesy soup.

Notes

  • Balance the Heat: Start with fewer jalapeños and adjust to your preferred spice level.
  • Use Sharp Cheddar: It melts better and has more flavor.
  • Don’t Skip Cream Cheese: It’s key for the smooth texture—room temperature helps it blend well.
  • Toast Bread Well: Crispy grilled cheese strips provide delightful texture contrast.
  • Make Ahead: Soup flavors deepen if made a day ahead; reheat gently to preserve creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño popper soup, spicy soup, cream cheese soup, grilled cheese dippers, comfort food, appetizer, cheesy soup, spicy comfort food

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/spicy-jalapeo-popper-soup-with-grilled-cheese-dippers/