Tex-Mex Potato Soup
A creamy, spicy Tex-Mex potato soup loaded with ham, green chilies, and cheddar cheese, perfect for comforting meals with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the onion into small pieces.
- Lightly brown the onions with margarine in a soup pan.
- Add chopped ham, green chilies, salt, and cayenne pepper to the pan.
- Add chicken broth and peeled, chopped potatoes to the pan.
- Simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in whipping cream and shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and heated through.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some diced garlic when browning the onions. If you want a lighter version, substitute half of the whipping cream with low-fat milk or use a dairy-free alternative. You can also replace the ham with shredded rotisserie chicken for a different protein. This Tex-Mex Potato Soup is perfect for using leftover ham from holiday meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Tex-Mex Potato Soup with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions on top for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with tortilla chips or warm crusty bread. For an extra kick, offer a side of Mary'S Salsa for dipping. This soup also works well as a starter for a Tex-Mex themed meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup thickens, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tex-Mex Potato Soup contains roughly 1562 calories, with 57g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 118g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (285% of the Daily Value), protein (114% of the Daily Value), and calcium (109% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2865mg per serving (125% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made a day ahead. In fact, the flavors will deepen and improve as it sits. Just reheat gently on the stovetop when you're ready to serve. However, it's best to add the cheese and cream just before serving to maintain their texture.
Is it possible to freeze the soup?
While you can freeze this soup, it’s important to note that the cream and cheese may change in texture once thawed. If you plan to freeze it, consider omitting the cream and cheese and adding them after reheating the soup. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for the green chilies?
If you don’t have green chilies, you can use diced jalapeños for a similar heat level or even omit them if you prefer a milder soup. Alternatively, a bit of diced bell pepper can add flavor without the spice, making it adaptable for all taste preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).