Smoky Jalapeño Cheddar Potato Soup

This Smoky Jalapeño Cheddar Potato Soup combines creamy potatoes, spicy jalapeños, and smoky paprika, creating a rich and flavorful bowl of comfort. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, it’s the perfect soup for warming up on a chilly day.

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large pot, combine potatoes, jalapeños, onion, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to simmer until potatoes are tender.
2. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
3. Stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until cheese is melted and soup is heated through.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: For an extra spicy version, leave some seeds in the jalapeños or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Cheese Options: Swap the cheddar for a blend of Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly soup.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup over medium heat on the stovetop until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to adjust the consistency.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use russet potatoes instead of other types? Yes, russet potatoes are perfect for this soup due to their creamy texture once blended.
2. Can I make this soup in advance? Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few days. The flavors actually improve after sitting for a day or two.
3. Can I freeze this soup? Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Reheat on the stove when ready to serve.
4. How can I make this soup spicier? You can add more jalapeños, or include some hot sauce or chili flakes to intensify the heat.
5. Is there a dairy-free version of this soup? Yes, you can use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream and dairy-free cheese to make it dairy-free.
6. What type of cheese works best? Cheddar is ideal for its sharp flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda or gruyère for a different taste.
7. Can I use a regular blender instead of an immersion blender? Yes, you can blend the soup in batches using a regular blender, just be careful as the soup will be hot.
8. What can I serve with this soup? This soup pairs well with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a simple salad.
9. How can I make the soup thicker? If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a fork or add more cheese to thicken the broth.
10. Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free chicken broth.

Conclusion

Smoky Jalapeño Cheddar Potato Soup is a delicious and comforting dish with the perfect balance of creamy, smoky, and spicy flavors. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and perfect for any time you need a bowl of warmth. Enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal!

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