Spicy Jalapeño Popper Soup (Print Version)

Creamy jalapeño soup paired with grilled cheese dippers for a smoky, cheesy delight.

# Ingredients:

→ For the Soup

01 - 6 slices bacon, chopped
02 - 1 small onion, finely diced
03 - 4-5 fresh jalapeños, diced, seeds removed
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 4 cups chicken broth
06 - 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened and cubed
07 - 1 cup heavy cream
08 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
09 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - Salt and pepper, to taste
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives or green onions, chopped, for garnish

→ For the Grilled Cheese Dippers

12 - 8 slices of bread (sourdough or preferred type)
13 - 2 cups shredded cheddar or cheese blend
14 - 4 tablespoons butter, softened

# Instructions:

01 - In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving 1-2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.
02 - Add the diced onion and jalapeños to the pot. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
03 - Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth.
04 - Add the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and smoked paprika. Stir until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
05 - Butter one side of each bread slice. Place cheese between two slices with the buttered sides facing out. Grill on a skillet over medium heat until golden and the cheese is melted. Cut into strips for dipping.
06 - Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with crispy bacon and chopped chives. Serve with grilled cheese dippers on the side or dunked in the soup.