Creamy Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe: A Heartwarming Comfort Bowl

Comfort meets creativity in this mac and cheese soup that defies traditional culinary boundaries.

creamy pasta swirls dance through a velvety broth, promising warmth with every spoonful.

cheese lovers will instantly fall for this innovative twist on a classic dish.

Unexpected ingredients add depth and surprise to each delightful bite.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade with this hearty recipe.

Rich, indulgent flavors meld together in a way that feels both familiar and exciting.

You’ll want to savor every single comforting spoonful of this incredible soup.

Ingredients for Creamy Mac and Cheese Soup

• Elbow Macaroni: A classic pasta shape that holds creamy sauce perfectly.
• Cheddar Cheese: Provides rich, sharp flavor and smooth texture to the soup.
• Milk: Creates a creamy base and adds richness to the soup.
• Vegetable Broth: Offers a savory foundation and depth of flavor.

• Onion: Adds sweet and savory undertones to the soup's flavor profile.
• Butter: Helps create a smooth roux and enhances overall richness.
• Flour: Thickens the soup and creates a velvety texture.

• Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Enhance and balance the overall taste of the mac and cheese soup.

How to Make Mac and Cheese Soup

Step 1: Boil Pasta to Perfection

Drop the elbow macaroni into a pot of salted boiling water. Cook until the pasta reaches that perfect al dente texture, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatic Onions

Grab a large pot and melt butter over medium heat. Toss in finely chopped onions and cook until they become soft and translucent, releasing their sweet fragrance.

Step 3: Create a Silky Roux

Sprinkle flour over the softened onions, whisking constantly for about two minutes. This magical mixture will thicken and form the base of our creamy soup.

Step 4: Build the Liquid Foundation

Slowly pour in vegetable broth and milk, whisking continuously to create a smooth, velvety liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, watching it transform.

Step 5: Melt in Cheesy Goodness

Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts completely and creates a luxurious, creamy texture that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Step 6: Combine and Season

Fold in the cooked macaroni and sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheesy goodness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the steaming mac and cheese soup into bowls.

Grab a spoon and dive into this comforting, creamy delight that’s perfect for warming up on chilly nights.

Tips for Creamy Mac and Cheese Soup

• Ensure elbow macaroni is al dente by testing a piece 1-2 minutes before package instructions suggest, preventing mushy texture.
• Whisk flour and butter slowly to avoid lumps, developing a golden base that thickens soup beautifully without graininess.
• Add cheese off direct heat and stir gradually, allowing smooth incorporation and preventing cheese from becoming grainy or separating.
• Experiment with cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, gruyere, or smoked gouda to elevate the soup's richness and complexity.
• Adjust liquid amounts if soup seems too thick, adding extra broth or milk to reach desired creamy, pourable texture.

Variations on Mac and Cheese Soup

• Gluten-Free Comfort Soup: Replace wheat flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend. Use gluten-free macaroni for a celiac-friendly version.
• Vegan Creamy Mac Soup: Substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk. Use nutritional yeast instead of cheddar cheese. Add cashew cream for extra richness.
• Spicy Southwest Mac Soup: Add diced green chilies, cumin, and smoked paprika. Top with jalapeños and crispy tortilla strips for a zesty kick.
• Protein-Packed Mac Soup: Stir in cooked chicken or crumbled bacon. Mix in white beans or lentils for additional protein and texture.

Pairings for Mac and Cheese Soup

Select a bright, acidic Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the rich, creamy soup and cleanse the palate with its refreshing notes.

Serve warm, toasted sourdough or rustic French bread on the side to soak up the cheesy broth and add delightful texture contrast.

Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the heaviness of the mac and cheese soup, providing a zesty, fresh counterpoint.

Sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top to add a smoky, salty crunch that elevates the comfort food experience and introduces a delicious protein element.

Storing Mac and Cheese Soup Safely

• Store leftover mac and cheese soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for 2-3 months. Seal tightly with a lid or freezer wrap to prevent freezer burn.
• Transfer desired portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming. Add a splash of milk to restore creamy consistency.
• Warm soup in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add extra milk or broth to thin out if sauce becomes too thick. Stir continuously to prevent scorching and maintain smooth texture.

FAQs

• What type of cheese works best for this mac and cheese soup?

Sharp cheddar cheese provides the most robust flavor and creates a creamy, tangy base for the soup. You can also mix in other cheeses like monterey jack or gruyere for added depth.

• Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup and refrigerate it for 1-2 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency and stir thoroughly to prevent scorching.

• Is this soup vegetarian-friendly?

The recipe is vegetarian as it uses vegetable broth. To keep it vegetarian, ensure you use vegetable-based cheese and broth.

Why Mac and Cheese Soup Is So Comforting

• Craft Comfort in a Bowl: Transform classic mac and cheese into a heartwarming soup that hugs your taste buds with rich, cheesy goodness.
• Master Simple Cooking Techniques: Learn how to create a perfect roux and smoothly blend ingredients, building fundamental culinary skills while preparing a delicious meal.
• Perfect Family Dinner Solution: Combine everyone's favorite pasta dish with a cozy soup concept, making it an instant hit for picky eaters and comfort food lovers alike.
• Quick and Satisfying Meal: Prepare a complete dinner in less than 30 minutes with minimal ingredients, offering a speedy solution for busy households craving something deliciously warm and filling.

Mac And Cheese Soup Recipe For Nights

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4.8 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy mac and cheese soup delivers ultimate comfort in one hearty bowl. Rich Wisconsin cheddar and tender pasta blend seamlessly, inviting you to savor each spoonful of pure culinary warmth.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup elbow macaroni

Starch and Thickening Agents:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Crushed crackers
• Crispy breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Boil macaroni in salted water until perfectly tender, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
2. Melt butter in a spacious pot over medium temperature, creating a golden base.
3. Sauté diced onions until they become translucent and fragrant, releasing their sweet aroma.
4. Dust flour over softened onions, whisking continuously to create a smooth, golden roux that will thicken the soup.
5. Pour vegetable broth and milk into the pot, stirring consistently to prevent lumps and achieve a silky consistency.
6. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, developing rich flavors and a luxurious texture.
7. Incorporate shredded cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until completely melted and creating a velvety, rich base.
8. Fold in cooked macaroni, enhancing the soup with garlic powder, seasoning with salt and pepper to elevate the overall taste profile.
9. Ladle the piping hot soup into bowls, serving immediately to enjoy maximum creaminess and comfort.

Notes

• Customize the soup’s thickness by adjusting the milk and broth ratio for your desired consistency.
• Use aged cheddar for a sharper, more intense cheese flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Experiment with gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a substitute to make the recipe celiac-friendly.
• Add crispy bacon bits or roasted vegetables on top for extra texture and nutritional boost.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 435 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 220 mg
• Fat: 23 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg