As the chilly days of fall drift in, I find myself craving all things warm and comforting. Imagine the rich, savory scent of broth mingling with melting cheese—it’s the kind of cozy atmosphere that wraps around you like a favorite blanket. I stumbled upon this delightful Mac and Cheese Soup on one of those busy afternoons when all I wanted was a quick, satisfying meal that reminded me of childhood favorites, yet offered the warmth of a homemade dinner.
This recipe combines the classic allure of mac and cheese with a tasty twist that transforms it into a velvety soup, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend gathering. With just a handful of ingredients and a cooking time of under 30 minutes, you can serve up a deliciously cheesy bowl that will please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s an easy way to impress friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen! Let’s indulge in that irresistible creamy goodness together.
Why will you love Mac and Cheese Soup?
Warmth and Comfort: This Mac and Cheese Soup is the ultimate cozy dish, perfect for chilly evenings!
Rich and Creamy: The combination of sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella delivers an indulgent flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 30 minutes, you won’t have to sacrifice quality for speed, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this delightful twist on a classic favorite, ensuring that it becomes a staple in your home!
Versatile: Customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins for an easy weeknight meal that suits everyone’s taste.
Effortless Cooking: Why not try pairing it with a simple salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal? You’ll be reaching for a second bowl in no time!
Mac and Cheese Soup Ingredients
• Let’s gather the essentials for your Mac and Cheese Soup!
For the Soup Base
- Vegetable or chicken broth – 5 cups; this forms a savory foundation for the soup.
- Elbow macaroni pasta – 1 cup, uncooked; it provides that quintessential mac and cheese texture.
For the Cheese Sauce
- Unsalted butter – ⅓ cup; this adds richness and depth to the sauce.
- All-purpose flour – ¼ cup; used to make a roux that thickens your soup beautifully.
- Milk – 1 ½ cups; for a creamy consistency, you can substitute with plant-based milk if desired.
- Sharp yellow cheddar cheese – 2 cups, grated; this cheese brings the bold flavor we love.
- Fresh Parmesan cheese – ⅓ cup, grated; adds a nutty dimension to the cheesy goodness.
- Mozzarella cheese – ¼ cup, grated; for that delightful gooeyness!
For Flavoring
- Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon; enhances the overall savory flavor.
- Mustard powder – ½ tablespoon; a secret ingredient for a slight tang that elevates the taste.
For Garnishing
- Fresh green onions – finely chopped, to sprinkle on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Black pepper – freshly cracked, to add a touch of spice and depth to each spoonful.
How to Make Mac and Cheese Soup
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Boil the Broth: In a large pot, add the vegetable or chicken broth and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, creating a lively bubble.
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Cook the Pasta: Add the elbow macaroni pasta and cook just until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. The pasta should be tender but still have a bit of bite. Set aside once done.
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Create the Roux: While cooking the pasta, melt the unsalted butter in a separate large saucepan over medium heat. Add the all-purpose flour, whisking constantly for about 1-2 minutes, until a smooth roux forms.
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Add Milk: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking all the while to combine. Don’t worry if it thickens and clumps at first—it will smooth out as you add more milk!
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Incorporate the Cheeses: Stir in the sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses, then reduce heat to low. Add the garlic powder and mustard powder, mixing well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and delightful.
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Combine and Serve: Slowly pour the creamy cheese mixture into the macaroni soup, stirring gently to blend everything together. Garnish with fresh green onions and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. Serve warm.
Optional: For extra flavor, try adding crumbled bacon or cooked chicken!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Mac and Cheese Soup
- Perfect Pasta: Cook the macaroni al dente to prevent mushiness; undercooked pasta will absorb the soup’s liquid without losing its bite.
- Simple Roux: When making the roux, whisk constantly to avoid lumps; patience here ensures a smooth cheese sauce in your Mac and Cheese Soup.
- Cheese Selection: Use freshly grated cheese for better melting; pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Customize Wisely: Add your favorite vegetables or proteins to boost nutrition; just ensure they are pre-cooked or quick-cooking to maintain soup consistency.
- Adjust Thickness: If the soup is too thick after combining, simply add more broth or milk slowly until you reach your desired consistency.
- Storage Tips: Leftover soup can be refrigerated, but reheat gently as it may thicken; add a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy texture.
Mac and Cheese Soup Variations
Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create your perfect bowl of comfort!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a delightful heat that warms the soul. This little twist can elevate your average soup into something exciting and lively!
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Veggie Boost: Toss in some fresh spinach, diced tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms to pack in more nutrition without sacrificing flavor. Each spoonful becomes a vibrant addition to your comforting classic.
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Protein Power: Throw in cooked bacon bits, shredded chicken, or even crumbled sausage to transform this soup into a heartier meal. These additions will complement the creamy richness beautifully.
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Plant-Based: Swap the dairy for plant-based alternatives like cashew cream or a nutty vegan cheese. This variation is a fantastic way to make the dish accessible for those on a dairy-free diet!
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Flavorful Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can be added just before serving, giving your soup a bright, aromatic finish. The fresh herbs will introduce an enticing aroma that balances the richness.
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Creamy Upgrade: For an extra touch of creaminess, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or sour cream just before serving. This ingredient adds a delightful tang and velvety texture that’s simply irresistible!
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Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyère, Gouda, or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles. Mixing cheeses will create layers of flavor that keep everyone guessing!
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Crispy Topping: Top with crushed crackers, fried onions, or even a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for added crunch. This delightful texture will contrast beautifully with the smooth soup!
What to Serve with Mac and Cheese Soup?
As you prepare this creamy delight, consider these mouthwatering pairings that perfectly complement and elevate your meal.
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Crunchy Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery twist on classic bread that adds a delightful crunch to your creamy soup. The garlic infuses an aromatic richness, making each bite irresistible.
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Simple Garden Salad: Fresh greens tossed with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers provide a crisp contrast to the velvety soup. A tangy vinaigrette lifts the flavors and balances the comforting warmth.
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Savory Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts add texture and a hint of caramelized sweetness, enhancing the overall experience of the meal.
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Classic Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit medley brings a cool, sweet contrast, offering a bright note that harmonizes with the rich cheese flavors.
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Spicy Pickle Chips: For those who enjoy a kick, the tangy crunch of pickles cuts through the creaminess, creating a delightful burst of flavor with each spoonful.
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Hot Apple Cider: Enjoy a cozy drink, with the spices enhancing the warmth of the soup. Perfect for sipping alongside or after your bowl of cheesy goodness!
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Chocolaty Brownies: Finish with a flourish! These fudgy brownies offer a sweet chocolatey finish, creating a satisfying end to your comforting meal.
How to Store and Freeze Mac and Cheese Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Mac and Cheese Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth as needed to restore creaminess.
Make Ahead Options
These Mac and Cheese Soup are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the macaroni pasta and prepare the cheese sauce separately up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a simple and quick finish on a hectic weeknight. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. For the cheese sauce, store it in the refrigerator as well, but make sure to reheat it gently over low heat to maintain its creamy consistency. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the reheated cheese sauce with the pasta and broth, give it a quick stir, and garnish with green onions and black pepper for that vibrant touch. Enjoy a comforting bowl with minimal effort!
Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best pasta for my Mac and Cheese Soup?
Absolutely! For this soup, I recommend using elbow macaroni, as it holds the creamy cheese sauce perfectly. Look for pasta that’s fresh, with no dark spots or broken pieces in the bag, to ensure the best texture.
What’s the best way to store leftover Mac and Cheese Soup?
Very simply! Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing it. This keeps it fresh and tasty! For longer storage, consider freezing it!
Can I freeze Mac and Cheese Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on low heat. You might need to add a splash of milk or broth for that creamy texture again!
How can I troubleshoot if my cheese sauce isn’t smooth?
If you find that your cheese sauce is clumpy, don’t worry! This can happen if the milk was added too quickly or if the cheese wasn’t grated finely enough. To fix it, remove the pan from heat, whisk in a bit more warm milk gradually until it smooths out. An immersion blender can also work wonders here!
Are there any dietary considerations for Mac and Cheese Soup?
Very much so! This Mac and Cheese Soup can easily be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth, and if you want it dairy-free, substitute the dairy milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives. Always check the labels for potential allergens like gluten or lactose, especially if serving to guests.
Can I add protein or veggies to my Mac and Cheese Soup?
The more the merrier! Feel free to customize your soup by adding pre-cooked diced chicken, crumbled bacon, or your favorite veggies like spinach or peas for added nutrition. Just make sure to add them towards the end of cooking to keep everything fresh and vibrant!
Creamy Mac and Cheese Soup That Will Warm Your Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, add the vegetable or chicken broth and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add the elbow macaroni pasta and cook just until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- While cooking the pasta, melt the unsalted butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Add the all-purpose flour, whisking constantly for about 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking to combine.
- Stir in the sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses, then reduce heat to low. Add the garlic powder and mustard powder.
- Slowly pour the creamy cheese mixture into the macaroni soup, stirring gently to blend everything together.
- Garnish with fresh green onions and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve warm.