Chile Verde Sopita (Green Chile Pasta Soup)
Introduction
When comfort meets spice in a bowl, you get Chile Verde Sopita — a cozy, flavor-packed Mexican-inspired soup that’s perfect for any season. This dish brings together the richness of spicy sausage, the heartiness of ground beef, and the brightness of roasted Hatch green chiles, all simmered with tender macaroni and melty cheese. The result is a creamy, zesty, and deeply satisfying bowl of warmth that feels like a hug from the inside out.
Origin and Cultural Significance
“Sopita” translates to “little soup” in Spanish and is a beloved comfort food across Mexican households. Traditionally, sopitas are simple soups made with pasta, tomato, and broth — often served to children or enjoyed as a light yet filling family meal. The Chile Verde variation is a flavorful regional twist from the northern regions of Mexico and the American Southwest, particularly New Mexico, where Hatch green chiles are celebrated. These chiles lend the dish its signature vibrant green hue and mildly smoky heat, turning an everyday soup into a bold and heartwarming experience.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1/2 lb spicy hot sausage (such as chorizo or spicy breakfast sausage)
- 1/2 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 2 cups Hatch green chiles, roasted and chopped
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup minced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for toasting pasta)
- 1 cup macaroni (elbow or small shapes)
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 4 oz cheese, cut into chunks (Velveeta, Muenster, or another melting cheese)
Optional Additions
- Add corn kernels or black beans for extra texture and nutrition.
- Stir in a dash of cumin or smoked paprika for a deeper, earthy flavor.
- Top with fresh cilantro, lime juice, or avocado slices before serving.
- For added creaminess, mix in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of sour cream.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meats and use vegetable broth with extra beans or soy chorizo.
Tips for Success
- Use quality green chiles: Fresh roasted Hatch chiles provide authentic flavor, but canned versions work well too.
- Toast the pasta until golden before adding the stock — this adds nutty depth and helps the noodles stay firm.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; let it simmer gently to absorb flavor while remaining al dente.
- Melt cheese off the heat: Add the cheese at the end to prevent curdling or separation.
- Adjust the spice level: Balance heat with the amount of green chile or type of sausage you use.
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meats
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the sausage and ground beef together until fully cooked and crumbly. Use a spoon to break them up evenly. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove excess grease if necessary.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Chiles
Add minced onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the roasted green chiles and diced tomatoes, mixing well to combine the flavors.
Step 3: Toast the Pasta
In a separate skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the macaroni and toast, stirring frequently, until lightly golden and nutty in aroma.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Add the toasted pasta to the meat mixture, then pour in the chicken stock. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the broth has thickened slightly.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in the cheese chunks until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime if desired.
Description
Chile Verde Sopita is a luscious, comforting soup bursting with Mexican flair. Each spoonful delivers a perfect harmony of spicy sausage, tender ground beef, and roasted green chiles enveloped in a creamy, cheesy broth. The toasted pasta adds a hearty texture, while the melty cheese gives it irresistible creaminess. It’s the kind of meal that comforts you on a cold evening yet feels vibrant enough for a warm summer day — a perfect balance of boldness and comfort.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 6 servings)
- Calories: ~360 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Calcium: 180 mg
Conclusion
Chile Verde Sopita captures the essence of Mexican home cooking — bold, soulful, and comforting. It’s a dish that bridges generations, blending traditional sopita nostalgia with modern spice and richness. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, its warmth and flavor never disappoint.
Recommendation
Pair this soup with warm tortillas or crusty bread for dipping, and a side of Mexican rice or avocado salad for a complete meal. It also freezes well, making it a great make-ahead comfort dish for busy days.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Though rich and satisfying, Chile Verde Sopita can be enjoyed guilt-free with mindful adjustments — choose lean meats, reduced-fat cheese, or whole-wheat pasta. The Hatch chiles provide antioxidants and vitamin C, while the protein and fiber make it a filling, balanced meal. It’s proof that indulgence and nourishment can beautifully coexist — one hearty, cheesy spoonful at a time.