Chile Verde Sopita
Chile Verde Sopita
Warm, comforting, and full of bold yet cozy flavors, Chile Verde Sopita is the kind of recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl. This soup is inspired by classic Mexican-style sopita but made easier, heartier, and perfect for everyday home cooking. With ground beef, tender macaroni, green chiles, and a flavorful broth, Chile Verde Sopita is a one-pot meal that satisfies both kids and adults alike.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, something comforting during cold weather, or a simple recipe that stretches ingredients while still tasting incredible, Chile Verde Sopita checks all the boxes. It’s affordable, customizable, and packed with flavor without being overly spicy.
This recipe is especially loved because it comes together with pantry staples, doesn’t require complicated techniques, and tastes even better the next day. If you grew up eating sopita or you’re trying it for the first time, Chile Verde Sopita is a must-try comfort food that will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Chile Verde Sopita
Why This Recipe Works
Chile Verde Sopita works so well because it balances simplicity with deep, comforting flavor. Every ingredient plays an important role, and together they create a soup that feels rich without being heavy.
First, browning the ground beef builds a strong flavor base. This step adds depth and savory notes that carry through the entire soup. The onions and garlic enhance that base, releasing natural sweetness and aroma that make Chile Verde Sopita incredibly inviting.
The green chiles are the star of the recipe. They provide a mild heat and tangy flavor that defines Chile Verde Sopita, while the cumin and chili powder add warmth without overpowering the dish. Bell peppers and tomatoes add freshness, color, and subtle sweetness that balance the savory broth.
The elbow macaroni is what truly transforms this dish into sopita. As the pasta cooks in the broth, it releases starch, slightly thickening the soup and giving Chile Verde Sopita its signature comforting texture. Everything cooks in one pot, allowing flavors to blend beautifully.
Most importantly, this recipe is flexible. You can make it mild or spicy, beefy or lighter with turkey, thick or brothy depending on your preference. That adaptability is why Chile Verde Sopita works every single time.
Chile Verde Sopita
What You’ll Need For This Recipe
To make Chile Verde Sopita, you’ll need simple ingredients that are easy to find and budget-friendly. Here’s a closer look at what each ingredient brings to the recipe:
Protein
Ground beef (1 lb): Adds richness and hearty flavor. You can also use ground turkey for a lighter option.
Fats
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps brown the meat and sauté the vegetables smoothly.
Aromatics
Onion (1 small, diced): Adds sweetness and depth.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings bold aroma and flavor.
Vegetables
Green bell pepper (1, diced): Adds mild bitterness and freshness.
Red bell pepper (1, diced or sliced): Adds sweetness and color.
Tomato (1 large, chopped or ½ can diced tomatoes): Provides acidity and balance.
Flavor Builders
Diced green chiles (1–2 cans, 7 oz each): The heart of Chile Verde Sopita, offering gentle heat and tang.
Cumin (1 teaspoon): Warm, earthy spice.
Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and mild heat.
Salt and pepper: Enhances all flavors.
Liquid
Chicken broth (6 cups) or water with bouillon for convenience and richness.
Pasta
Elbow macaroni (1½ cups): Traditional for sopita and perfect for soaking up flavor.
Optional Add-ins
Shredded cheese
Fresh cilantro
Lime juice
Every ingredient works together to make Chile Verde Sopita flavorful, filling, and comforting.
Chile Verde Sopita
How To Make This Recipe
Making Chile Verde Sopita is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Browning adds flavor, so let it cook until you see golden bits. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step builds the aromatic base of Chile Verde Sopita.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Add the bell peppers and chopped tomatoes. Cook for 3–4 minutes, just until the vegetables start to soften but still hold their shape.
Step 4: Spice It Up
Stir in the green chiles, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well so the spices coat everything evenly. This is where Chile Verde Sopita starts to smell irresistible.
Step 5: Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Step 6: Add the Pasta
Stir in the elbow macaroni. Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the soup thickens slightly.
Step 7: Taste and Serve
Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve Chile Verde Sopita hot with optional cheese, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime.
Chile Verde Sopita
Tips + Tricks & More For Recipe Success
To make the best Chile Verde Sopita, keep these helpful tips in mind:
Toast your spices briefly in the pot before adding broth to deepen flavor.
Control thickness by adding more broth if the soup thickens too much.
Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue absorbing liquid after cooking.
Make it spicier by adding jalapeños or hot green chiles.
Use fresh cilantro at the end for brightness.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
These small adjustments can elevate your Chile Verde Sopita from good to unforgettable.
Chile Verde Sopita
How to Serve
Chile Verde Sopita is best served hot and fresh. Ladle it into deep bowls to capture both the broth and pasta evenly. Finish each bowl with shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors.
Serve with warm tortillas, crusty bread, or crackers on the side. This soup is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own.
Chile Verde Sopita
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chile Verde Sopita with a simple side salad for balance.
Pair with avocado slices or guacamole.
Add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top for crunch.
Serve as a starter before tacos or enchiladas.
Chile Verde Sopita
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: About 40–45 minutes
Chile Verde Sopita
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Chile Verde Sopita in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water since the pasta will absorb liquid. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Chile Verde Sopita
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Chile Verde Sopita is loved by so many families. It’s warm, comforting, affordable, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or craving something cozy, Chile Verde Sopita delivers every time.
Once you try it, this simple soup will quickly become one of your go-to comfort meals—easy to make, satisfying to eat, and full of flavor in every spoonful.