Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Jalapeno Cheddar Cheese Soup Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy and flavorful dish, you’ll absolutely love this Slow Cooker Jalapeno Cheddar Cheese Soup. The combination of creamy cheese and spicy jalapeños creates a delightful warmth that’s perfect for chilly days.
I adore how easy it’s to throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work. The enticing aroma fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist.
Plus, it’s a versatile recipe—I can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños. Each bowl is comforting and satisfying, making it a go-to for gatherings or a quiet night in.
Trust me, once you try this soup, you’ll be coming back for more!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Jalapeno Cheddar Cheese Soup
When it comes to whipping up a delicious bowl of comfort, nothing quite hits the spot like a warm, cheesy soup. The Spicy Slow Cooker Jalapeno Cheddar Soup isn’t only bursting with flavor but also super easy to prepare. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax or tackle other tasks.
And trust me, when that rich aroma starts wafting through your home, you’ll be counting down the minutes until you can dig in. So, let’s get to the good stuff—the ingredients that will make this tasty dish come to life.
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this scrumptious soup:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped (about a cup)
- 2 jalapenos, seeded and diced (plus extra for serving)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 cup milk
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 3 small Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 3/4 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Green onion, to taste (for serving)
As you can see, the ingredient list is pretty straightforward, making it easy to pick everything up during your next grocery run.
A couple of things to keep in mind: feel free to adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños depending on your spice tolerance. If you’re like me, you might be tempted to go all out and add an extra jalapeño for that extra kick.
Also, using freshly grated cheese is key; the pre-shredded stuff often has anti-caking agents that can make your soup less creamy. So, if you have a shredder lying around, now’s the time to put it to good use.
Trust me, the extra effort is worth it when you take that first comforting spoonful.
How to Make Slow Cooker Jalapeno Cheddar Cheese Soup
Making the Spicy Slow Cooker Jalapeno Cheddar Soup is almost as fun as eating it, and trust me, you won’t have to be a culinary genius to pull this off. First things first, let’s start with a little prep work. Grab 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and melt it in a large deep stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Now, while that butter is doing its thing, chop up 1 yellow onion and 2 peeled carrots—about a cup’s worth. Don’t you just love the colorful veggies? Toss those into the pot along with 2 diced jalapeños (remember to seed them unless you want to turn your soup into a fire hazard). Sauté everything for about 5 minutes, until they start to soften. The smell is going to be heavenly, and if you’re anything like me, you might just sneak a few tastes along the way.
Once your veggies are looking all tender and fragrant, it’s time to crank up the flavor. Add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Let that cook for about 30 seconds—just long enough for the garlic to make the whole kitchen feel like a cozy restaurant.
Now, sprinkle 1/4 cup of flour over the top of your sautéed veggies. This is where it gets a little science-y; cook the flour for about a minute until it turns a light golden color. Then, slowly stir in 1 cup of milk—don’t rush it, or you could end up with lumps. Stir until things get nice and thick, which should take about 2 minutes.
Now, transfer that creamy goodness into a 4-quart or larger slow cooker, and add 4 cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, plus 3 small Yukon Gold potatoes that you’ve peeled and chopped. Cover it up and let it work its magic for 5 to 6 hours on low.
When the time’s up, get ready for the best part—pureeing that soup. If you have a blender or food processor, now’s your moment to shine. Just blend it in batches until it’s all smooth and velvety. If you’re feeling fancy, you can use an immersion blender right in the slow cooker (easy clean-up, yay!).
Now, slowly stir in 1 and 3/4 cups of freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese—don’t rush this either; add it in half-cups and let it melt before adding more. It’s going to look so cheesy and delicious, you might just want to dive right in.
But wait! Serve it up with some extra jalapeño slices, green onions, and more cheddar cheese on top. Then you can dig in, and trust me, you’ll be glad you took the time to make this. It’s perfect for cozy nights in, or really, any night you just want to feel like a rock star in the kitchen.
Slow Cooker Jalapeno Cheddar Cheese Soup Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve mastered the creamy goodness of the Spicy Slow Cooker Jalapeno Cheddar Soup, you might want to switch things up a bit.
For a healthier option, try substituting half-and-half or almond milk for the regular milk. If you’re looking for extra protein, adding cooked chicken or beans can enhance the dish.
Feel free to swap out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor profile. For a milder version, omit the cayenne pepper and reduce the jalapenos.
You can even toss in some corn or diced bell peppers for added sweetness and color. Don’t hesitate to experiment—this soup is versatile, and you’re bound to find a combo you love!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Jalapeno Cheddar Cheese Soup
Pairing the Spicy Slow Cooker Jalapeno Cheddar Soup with the right sides can elevate your meal experience.
I love serving this creamy, spicy soup with a side of crusty artisan bread for dipping; it’s perfect for soaking up all that deliciousness.
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, consider adding some spicy cornbread muffins on the side.
For a fun twist, nachos topped with jalapenos and melted cheese bring an extra crunch that pairs well.
Don’t forget to offer toppings like sliced avocado or sour cream, which can help balance the heat and enhance every spoonful!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your Spicy Slow Cooker Jalapeno Cheddar Soup, keep in mind a few helpful tips to enhance your cooking experience.
First, feel free to adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapenos based on your spice preference. If you want a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. Don’t skip the fresh cheddar; it really elevates the flavor!
Also, remember that blending the soup can be done in batches or with an immersion blender for convenience. For added depth, toss in some smoked paprika or a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
Finally, let leftovers cool completely before storing them in airtight containers for up to three days—if you have any left! Enjoy your delicious creation!