Smoky Jalapeño Cheddar Potato Soup is a comforting, creamy soup with a flavorful kick. Tender potatoes, smoky jalapeños, and sharp cheddar cheese come together to create a hearty and warming meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup balances creamy, cheesy richness with a subtle smoky heat from roasted jalapeños, giving it depth without being overpowering. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for cozy nights at home. You can also customize the spice level to suit your taste.

Smoky Jalapeño Cheddar Potato Soup

Ingredients

4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 jalapeños, roasted, peeled, and chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, for garnish
Optional toppings: extra cheese, crispy beef bits, sour cream

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add Potatoes and Jalapeños: Stir in diced potatoes, roasted jalapeños, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1–2 minutes to combine flavors.
Simmer: Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or leave slightly chunky for texture.
Add Cheese and Cream: Stir in cheddar cheese and heavy cream until melted and fully combined. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped chives and optional toppings. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicier Soup: Include jalapeño seeds or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Smokier Flavor: Use smoked cheddar cheese or add a few drops of liquid smoke.
Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Chunky Potato Soup: Skip blending entirely for a more rustic, chunky texture.
Loaded Potato Soup: Top with crumbled beef, extra cheese, and green onions for a loaded potato version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen potatoes?

Yes, frozen diced potatoes work well. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they are tender.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the soup and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove before serving.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack can be used for a different flavor profile.

4. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, substitute coconut milk or a plant-based cream for the heavy cream and use dairy-free cheese.

5. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, allow the soup to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly on the stove.

6. Can I roast the jalapeños in advance?

Yes, roasted jalapeños can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

7. Can I use regular paprika instead of smoked paprika?

Yes, but smoked paprika gives the soup its signature smoky flavor. You can combine regular paprika with a few drops of liquid smoke.

8. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, combine all ingredients (except cheese and cream) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours. Add cheese and cream just before serving.

9. Can I make this soup spicier?

Yes, leave the seeds in the jalapeños, add extra chopped jalapeños, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

10. What can I serve with this soup?

Serve with crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Smoky Jalapeño Cheddar Potato Soup is a creamy, comforting, and flavorful soup that brings warmth and spice to your table. With its smoky depth and cheesy richness, it’s an easy weeknight dinner or cozy lunch option that the whole family will enjoy.

Chef MARTHA