Warm, creamy, and full of bold flavor, this chili relleno soup captures the essence of classic chiles rellenos in a comforting, spoonable form. Roasted peppers, savory broth, and melty cheese come together for a rich and satisfying dish with just the right amount of heat.
Perfect for cozy nights or when you’re craving something hearty with a little kick.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy & Comforting: Smooth, rich texture.
Bold Flavor: Roasted peppers add depth.
Hearty Meal: Filling and satisfying.
Unique Twist: Soup version of a classic dish.
What You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
4 poblano peppers, roasted, peeled, and chopped
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon flour
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings
Step 1: Roast the Peppers
Roast poblano peppers until skins are charred. Peel, seed, and chop.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a pot, melt butter and sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly.
Step 3: Make the Base
Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Step 4: Add Liquids
Slowly whisk in chicken broth, then add chopped peppers.
Step 5: Simmer
Let simmer for 15–20 minutes to develop flavor.
Step 6: Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 7: Season & Serve
Add cumin, salt, and pepper. Serve warm.
Expert Tips for Success
Char Peppers Well: Adds smoky flavor.
Whisk Slowly: Prevents lumps.
Adjust Heat: Use milder or hotter peppers as desired.
Variations and Substitutions
Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken.
Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or chili flakes.
Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of cream.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs perfectly with:
Warm tortillas
Rice
Avocado slices 🥑
Fresh cilantro
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this soup very spicy?
It has mild to moderate heat depending on the peppers.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
Can I freeze it?
Not ideal due to the creamy base, but possible with slight texture changes.
