Smoky Jalapeño Cheddar Potato Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines creamy potatoes with a spicy kick from jalapeños and a rich, smoky depth from chipotle peppers. The addition of sharp cheddar cheese makes the soup extra creamy and indulgent, while the heat from the jalapeños and the smoky flavor adds a wonderful balance. It’s the perfect comfort food with a bit of a spicy twist.
I first made this soup when I was craving something comforting but with a little heat, and it quickly became a favorite. The potatoes were perfectly tender, and the smoky chipotle peppers gave the soup a deep, savory flavor. The jalapeños added just the right amount of spice, while the cheddar cheese made the soup creamy and rich. It was a satisfying, bold, and warming dish perfect for chilly days.
What’s great about Smoky Jalapeño Cheddar Potato Soup is how customizable it is. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less jalapeño, or even toss in some beef bacon for extra smokiness and crunch. It’s an ideal dish for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal when paired with a side of crusty bread. Whether you’re a fan of spicy foods or just love a creamy potato soup, this one’s sure to impress!
Perfect for:
- Cozy dinners
- Cold weather days
- Game day parties
- Family gatherings
- Fans of spicy and cheesy dishes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Smoky Jalapeño Cheddar Potato Soup will become your go-to comfort food:
- Smoky Flavor: The addition of smoked paprika and bacon gives the soup a rich, smoky taste that perfectly complements the creaminess of the potatoes.
- Spicy Kick: Fresh jalapeños add just the right amount of heat to make each spoonful exciting.
- Cheesy Goodness: The melted cheddar cheese adds a rich and velvety texture, elevating the flavor.
- Creamy Texture: The potatoes and cream create a silky, smooth base that’s incredibly comforting.
- Simple Ingredients: This soup is made with easy-to-find ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
- One-Pot Meal: Everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and reheat it for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the number of jalapeños to suit your desired spice level, or swap them for milder peppers if you prefer.
- Filling and Hearty: This soup is filling enough to be a main dish, especially when paired with crusty bread.
- A Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a party or making dinner for the family, everyone will love this smoky, cheesy soup.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 25g
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 fresh jalapeños, deseeded and chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices beef bacon, cooked and crumbled
For the Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Crumbled beef bacon
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- Jalapeños: Provide a fresh and spicy kick to balance the creamy base.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a deep, smoky flavor that enhances the richness of the soup.
- Cheddar Cheese: Offers a tangy, creamy finish that makes the soup indulgent.
- Potatoes: Create the thick, creamy texture that forms the base of the soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Soup:
- Cook the Beef Bacon: In a large pot, cook the beef bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, reserving the drippings in the pot.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and jalapeños. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced potatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.
- Blend the Soup (optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks of potatoes for texture.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook until the cheese has melted and the soup is smooth.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled beef bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro (if desired).
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Smoky Jalapeño Cheddar Potato Soup:
- With Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
- As a Starter: Serve small portions as a starter at your next dinner party.
- With a Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the soup.
- For Game Day: Serve in small bowls with tortilla chips on the side for scooping.
- With Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess and tang.
- For a Hearty Meal: Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food combination.
- With Pickled Jalapeños: Top with pickled jalapeños for an extra zing and added spice.
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside your favorite main dishes, such as grilled meats or a barbecue spread.
- With Avocado: Add sliced avocado for a cool, creamy contrast to the spicy soup.
- For Leftovers: Enjoy as a meal on its own the next day for lunch or dinner.
Additional Tips
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder soup, use fewer jalapeños or remove the seeds before adding them.
- Blend for Smoothness: Use an immersion blender to achieve a creamier texture without the need for heavy cream.
- Top with Fresh Herbs: Add fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Make it Vegan: Swap the cream and cheese for plant-based alternatives, and use vegetable broth.
- Add Protein: For extra protein, stir in shredded chicken or turkey.
- Add More Cheese: For a cheesier soup, increase the amount of shredded cheddar cheese.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Southwest Potato Soup: Add a teaspoon of cumin and a squeeze of lime juice for a southwest flavor twist.
- Loaded Potato Soup: Top with extra crumbled beef bacon, sour cream, and green onions for a “loaded” version.
- Vegan Potato Soup: Use coconut milk and vegan cheese to make this soup dairy-free.
- Creamy Beef Bacon Potato Soup: Add extra beef bacon for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
- Sweet Potato Version: Replace russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter variation.
- Chili Potato Soup: Stir in a tablespoon of chili powder and top with chili for a heartier version.
Special Equipment
- Immersion Blender: For blending the soup to your desired texture without transferring to a blender.
- Large Pot: To cook the soup and simmer the ingredients.
- Wooden Spoon: For stirring and mixing the ingredients.
- Sharp Knife: To easily chop the potatoes, onions, garlic, and jalapeños.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure the right proportions of each ingredient.
FAQ Section
- Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving. - Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove. - What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Use coconut cream or a dairy-free substitute for a lighter option. - Can I make this soup spicier?
Yes, increase the number of jalapeños or add some hot sauce for an extra kick. - How can I make this soup thicker?
Blend the soup for a smoother texture or mash some of the potatoes to thicken it naturally. - Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Add corn, carrots, or bell peppers for additional flavor and texture. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use gouda, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger pot. - What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later use. - How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Stir in the cheese over low heat and make sure the soup is hot but not boiling to prevent clumping.
Conclusion
Smoky Jalapeño Cheddar Potato Soup is a hearty, spicy, and flavorful twist on the classic potato soup. Creamy mashed potatoes are combined with smoky cheddar cheese and a kick of heat from fresh jalapeños, creating a bold and satisfying bowl. The smoky flavor adds depth to the smooth texture of the soup, while the jalapeños bring a spicy kick that’s perfectly balanced by the rich, melted cheese. Each bite is a comforting blend of creamy, cheesy, and smoky goodness.
What makes this soup so special is its bold combination of flavors—rich cheddar, smoky undertones, and a spicy heat from the jalapeños, making it a perfect dish for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals. You can customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of jalapeños or adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flavor. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or served alongside a warm loaf of bread.
I can’t wait to see how your Smoky Jalapeño Cheddar Potato Soup turns out! Snap a photo and share it on Instagram, tagging me so I can admire your spicy creation. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made it your own—I’d love to hear all about your twist on this flavorful dish!