Chile Verde Sopita – recipesmakerr

Chile Verde Sopita is a comforting Mexican-style soup made with tender pasta simmered in a flavorful green chile broth. The word “sopita” means “little soup,” and it is commonly prepared as a light meal or starter in many Mexican homes. This dish combines simple pantry ingredients with the bright, slightly spicy flavor of green chiles.

The soup is warm, soothing, and full of flavor, making it perfect for cooler days or when you want a quick homemade comfort meal. The tender pasta absorbs the delicious broth while green chiles add a mild heat that balances beautifully with the savory base.

Prep Time, Cook Time & Servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: ~210 calories per serving

Equipment Needed

Medium soup pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Knife
Ladle

Ingredients

1 cup small pasta (shells, elbows, or fideo)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup roasted green chiles, chopped
4 cups chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Ingredient Notes

Small Pasta: Traditional sopita often uses fideo noodles, but small pasta shapes like shells or elbows work well.
Green Chiles: Roasted green chiles give the soup its signature flavor and mild spice.
Chicken Broth: Provides a rich and savory base for the soup.
Cilantro: Adds freshness and bright flavor when sprinkled on top.

Instructions

1. Toast the Pasta

Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the pasta and cook for about 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

3. Add the Green Chiles

Mix in the chopped green chiles and diced tomatoes (if using). Stir well to combine the flavors.

4. Pour in the Broth

Add the chicken broth, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring the soup to a gentle boil.

5. Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

6. Finish and Serve

Stir in fresh cilantro and taste for seasoning. Serve hot and top with shredded cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 210
Protein: 7g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 540mg

Nutrition values are approximate.

Tips for the Best Chile Verde Sopita

Toast the pasta first: This adds a slightly nutty flavor and keeps the pasta from becoming too soft.
Use homemade broth if possible: It creates a deeper, richer flavor.
Adjust the spice level: Add jalapeños for more heat or use mild chiles for a softer flavor.
Serve immediately: Sopita tastes best when freshly cooked.

Variations

Chicken Chile Verde Sopita

Add shredded cooked chicken for a heartier soup.

Creamy Sopita

Stir in 1/4 cup cream or a spoonful of sour cream for a richer broth.

Vegetable Sopita

Add corn, zucchini, or diced carrots for extra vegetables.

Cheesy Sopita

Mix shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese into the soup just before serving.