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!!

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.