This Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup with Grilled Cheese Dippers is the ultimate comfort food mash-up, combining the creamy, cheesy goodness of jalapeño poppers with the warmth and spice of a hearty soup. Topped with gooey melted cheese and crispy bacon bits, this soup delivers all the flavors you love in a jalapeño popper—plus a side of crunchy grilled cheese dippers for dunking. It’s bold, spicy, and utterly satisfying, perfect for cozy nights or game-day gatherings. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold and Spicy: Packed with jalapeños, cream cheese, and shredded cheese for a rich, fiery kick.
- Comfort in a Bowl: Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with comforting flavors.
- Grilled Cheese Dippers: Crispy, buttery grilled cheese sandwiches make the perfect accompaniment for dipping.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spiciness to your liking by controlling the amount of jalapeños or seeds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Jalapeño Popper Soup:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3–4 fresh jalapeños, seeded and minced (leave seeds for extra heat if desired)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
For the Grilled Cheese Dippers:
- 8 slices bread (sourdough, whole grain, or your favorite type)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for spreading)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced jalapeños and garlic, cooking for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Build the Soup Base
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the heavy cream, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cubed cream cheese, whisking until fully melted and smooth.