Chile Verde Sopita

Chile Verde Sopita is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the bold tastes of spicy sausage, ground beef, and the distinct warmth of Hatch green chiles. This comforting soup is a delightful blend of ingredients, including diced tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and tender macaroni, all simmered in rich chicken stock.

The addition of creamy Velveeta or Muenster cheese melts into the soup, creating a luscious texture that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this sopita is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your cravings!

Chile Verde Sopita

Ingredients:

spicy hot sausage and ground beef (50/50)

Hatch green chile

diced tomatoes

minced onion

garlic

salt

pepper

4 cups chicken stock

Velveeta cheese or Muenster cheese

Instructions:

I use spicy hot sausage and ground beef (50/50) browned

Add hot Hatch green chile, diced tomatoes, minced onion and garlic with salt and pepper.

Toast (browned) macaroni in salted butter and olive oil and add to mixture.

Add 4 cups chicken stock, brought to boil and reduced heat.

Simmer on low for 10 minutes or until macaroni is cooked.

I like to add little chunks of cheese and cover for 2 minutes to melt in (my 2 favorites are Velveeta and Muenster in sopita).

Enjoy!!

Notes:

Versatile Ingredients: This recipe combines spicy hot sausage and ground beef with aromatic vegetables like garlic, onion, and hot Hatch green chiles, creating a flavorful base for the sopita.

Customizable Spice Level: You can adjust the spiciness of the dish by varying the type and amount of hot Hatch green chiles used. For a milder version, opt for mild green chiles or reduce the quantity of hot chiles.

Choice of Pasta: While macaroni is traditionally used in sopita, you can experiment with different pasta shapes like penne or rotini to suit your preference.

Cheesy Goodness: The addition of Velveeta or Muenster cheese lends a creamy texture and cheesy flavor to the sopita. However, feel free to use other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for variation.

Vegetarian or Vegan Options: To make this dish vegetarian or vegan, substitute the meat with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Opt for dairy-free cheese options for a vegan version.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Chile Verde Sopita can be prepared in advance and reheated when ready to serve, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Finding Hatch Green Chiles: If fresh Hatch green chiles are not available, you can use canned or frozen options found in the ethnic or canned vegetable section of your local grocery store.

Gluten-Free Adaptation: Make the sopita gluten-free by using gluten-free macaroni or pasta and ensuring that the chicken stock or broth used is gluten-free.

Optional Toppings: Enhance the flavor and presentation of the sopita with toppings like chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, a squeeze of lime juice, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Scalable Recipe: Easily adjust the quantities of ingredients to make a larger batch of sopita to serve a crowd. Just ensure you have a large enough pot to accommodate the increased volume.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I adjust the spiciness of this dish?

Yes, you can adjust the spiciness by choosing the type and amount of hot Hatch green chiles you use.

If you prefer a milder version, opt for mild green chiles or reduce the quantity of hot chiles.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of macaroni?

Absolutely! While the recipe suggests using macaroni, you can experiment with other pasta shapes such as penne, rotini, or shells.

Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the pasta you choose.

What kind of cheese is best for this dish?

The recipe mentions using Velveeta or Muenster cheese.

Both choices can add a creamy texture and cheesy flavor to the sopita.

However, you can get creative and use other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack to suit your taste preferences.

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian or vegan version of this dish by substituting the spicy sausage and ground beef with plant-based alternatives like vegetarian sausage crumbles or tofu.

Also, use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock, and choose dairy-free cheese options for a vegan version.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat it?

Yes, Chile Verde Sopita can be prepared in advance and reheated.

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s heated through.

Where can I find Hatch green chiles if they’re not available fresh?

If you can’t find fresh Hatch green chiles, you can look for canned or frozen Hatch green chiles in the ethnic or canned vegetable section of your local grocery store.

These are often available year-round.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of spicy hot sausage and ground beef?

Yes, you can customize the meat in this recipe to your liking. Consider using alternatives like ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian meat substitutes if you prefer a different protein source.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free macaroni or another gluten-free pasta option.

Additionally, ensure that the chicken stock you use is gluten-free or substitute it with gluten-free vegetable broth.

What are some optional toppings or garnishes for Chile Verde Sopita?

You can enhance the flavor and presentation of your sopita by adding toppings like chopped fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.

Can I make a larger batch of this sopita for a crowd?

Absolutely! You can easily scale up the recipe to serve more people.

Just adjust the quantities of ingredients accordingly, and make sure you have a large enough pot to accommodate the increased volume.