Chile Relleno Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms both the heart and the belly, this Chile Relleno Soup is just what you need! Inspired by the classic flavors of chile relleno, this soup transforms those beloved ingredients into a creamy, cheesy delight. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet comforting. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to gather family around the table or impress friends at a casual gathering.

This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it combines rich textures with vibrant flavors. Trust me, once you try this Chile Relleno Soup, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness and mild spice.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup stores well, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of roasted poblano peppers and melted cheese creates a comforting bowl of goodness that everyone will crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Chile Relleno Soup is a breeze! You’ll find that all these items are simple and wholesome, bringing together fresh flavors and creamy textures.

For the Soup Base

• 5 poblano peppers (also labeled Pasilla peppers, depending on location)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium sweet onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

For Creaminess and Cheese

• 2 cups chopped or shredded cooked chicken breast
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into very small cubes
• 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese

For Garnish

• Fresh chopped cilantro, for garnish

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations that cater to your taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: If you prefer a vegetarian option, leave out the chicken and add extra beans or corn for added heartiness.
• Spice it up: Want some heat? Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to kick things up a notch.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream or coconut cream for a lighter version that’s still rich and satisfying.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped zucchini or corn during cooking for an extra boost of nutrition and flavor.

How to Make Chile Relleno Soup

Step 1: Roast the Poblano Peppers

Start by cleaning and drying the poblano peppers. Roasting them until their skin blackens brings out their smoky flavor. You can do this under the broiler or over an open flame—either way works! Just keep an eye on them as they roast.

Step 2: Prep the Peppers

Once roasted, place the peppers in a plastic bag to steam. This step makes peeling off the skin much easier. After they cool down, remove as much skin as possible, cut off the stems, remove seeds, and chop them finely. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In a medium pot, warm butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened—this should take about three minutes. Then toss in minced garlic and cumin; cook just until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup!

Step 4: Build Your Soup Base

Now it’s time to pour in the chicken broth along with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing it to a gentle simmer. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Add Chicken

Stir in your cooked chicken pieces at this stage. This not only adds protein but also makes your soup more filling—a perfect one-pot meal!

Step 6: Creamy Goodness

Now comes the best part—creamy cheese! Add cream cheese along with two cups of cheddar cheese. Whisk until everything is melted and smooth. Trust me; this step takes your soup from good to absolutely heavenly!

Step 7: Broil for Extra Cheese

Divide your soup into bowls, then sprinkle each with remaining cheddar and pepper jack cheeses. A quick trip under the broiler gives you that golden bubbly finish everyone loves—just be sure to watch closely so it doesn’t burn!

Step 8: Garnish & Enjoy!

Finish off with fresh cilantro before serving. Each spoonful offers warmth from spices, creaminess from cheese, plus mouthwatering bits of roasted pepper—it’s truly irresistible! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chile Relleno Soup

Making this Chile Relleno Soup is a breeze, but a few pro tips can elevate it to the next level of deliciousness!

• Choose fresh poblano peppers – Fresh peppers not only have better flavor but also provide a vibrant color and texture that enhances the soup’s appeal.
• Don’t skip the roasting step – Roasting the peppers adds a smoky depth to your soup that is key to achieving those classic chile relleno flavors.
• Adjust spice levels – If you like a bit more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese for an extra kick!
• Use leftover chicken – This recipe is perfect for utilizing leftover cooked chicken. It saves time and makes this soup even easier to whip up on a busy weeknight.
• Experiment with cheese – Mixing different kinds of cheese can add complexity. Try substituting some cheddar with Monterey Jack or even crumbled queso fresco for a unique twist.

How to Serve Chile Relleno Soup

Serving your Chile Relleno Soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this creamy delight beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro – A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color that complements the rich flavors of the soup.
• Avocado slices – Creamy avocado slices provide a delightful contrast in texture, plus they enhance the nutritional value.
• Crushed tortilla chips – A handful of crispy tortilla chips on top adds crunch and makes each spoonful exciting.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Rice – This flavorful rice dish, often seasoned with tomatoes and spices, pairs perfectly with the rich soup and balances its creamy texture.
• Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans offer heartiness and additional protein, making your meal more filling and satisfying.
• Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins provide a wonderful contrast to the savory soup, perfect for soaking up every last drop!
• Guacamole Salad – Fresh veggies tossed with guacamole make for a refreshing side that complements the warmth of the soup beautifully.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, your Chile Relleno Soup will not only be delicious but also visually appealing—perfect for impressing family or guests! Enjoy every warm, cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chile Relleno Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts. It’s not only delicious but also keeps well, allowing you to enjoy it for several days after preparing it. Here’s how you can store it effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it to maintain freshness.
• If possible, separate the cheese topping until you’re ready to reheat for optimal texture.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top of each container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• Heat on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm throughout.
• Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful Chile Relleno Soup.

Can I make Chile Relleno Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with additional vegetables like zucchini or corn and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a tasty vegetarian option.

How do I make Chile Relleno Soup spicier?

To amp up the heat, add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers when sautéing the onions and garlic. You could also use spicy pepper jack cheese instead of mild.

Can I use other types of peppers in Chile Relleno Soup?

Yes! While poblano peppers give this soup its traditional flavor, you can experiment with other peppers such as Anaheim or even bell peppers if you prefer a milder taste.

How long does Chile Relleno Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Chile Relleno Soup will last for about 3 days in the refrigerator.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This Chile Relleno Soup is great for meal prep and can easily be made ahead of time and stored for future meals.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting and flavorful Chile Relleno Soup as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to bring warmth and joy to your table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it solo, this soup is sure to delight. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to try out different variations that suit your taste!