Creamy Mac and Cheese Soup – A Comforting Delight

a chilly evening where all you want is a hug in a bowl. Enter mac and cheese soup, the dish that wraps you in gooey goodness with every spoonful. This delightful creation merges the classic comfort of macaroni and cheese with the soul-warming embrace of a hearty soup. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses as it simmers on the stove, promising a flavor explosion that will have you dancing around your kitchen like no one’s watching.

Now picture this culinary masterpiece gracing your table during a family gathering or movie night. It’s that one dish everyone fights over seconds for—like it’s the last slice of pizza at a party! Trust me; this mac and cheese soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings back warm memories of childhood dinners or late-night snacks after a long day.

This past winter, I made this mac and cheese soup for my family on one of those “let’s stay indoors” weekends. The smiles on their faces were priceless!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Elbow Macaroni: Small pasta shapes that hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully; use whole grain for added nutrition.
• Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar to give your soup that rich flavor; freshly grated melts better.
• Vegetable Broth: A flavorful base; use low-sodium broth to control saltiness.
• Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; feel free to substitute with dairy-free options if preferred.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter to allow more control over seasoning; it creates a rich base when sautéing veggies.
• Fresh Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and bell peppers add essential nutrients and color; chop them finely for even cooking.
• Garlic Powder: A pinch enhances overall flavor without overpowering other ingredients.
• Black Pepper: Freshly cracked offers warmth; adjust according to taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Start by gathering your tools. You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven for simmering everything together.

Prepare Your Pasta: Boil water in a pot; add elbow macaroni once bubbling vigorously. Cook until al dente based on package instructions while stirring occasionally.

Sauté Those Veggies: In another pot over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Add chopped carrots, celery, and bell peppers. Sauté until fragrant—about 5 minutes—then sprinkle garlic powder over them.

Add the Broth: Pour in vegetable broth along with cooked pasta—don’t forget to include some pasta water! Stir well to combine flavors while letting everything simmer together for about 10 minutes.

Create That Creamy Base: Lower heat before adding milk slowly while stirring continuously. Watch as it transforms into a beautiful creamy texture—you’ll be tempted to dive right in!

Melt in the Cheese: Gradually mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted thoroughly throughout the soup—this step is crucial because no one likes clumpy cheese!

Serve hot into bowls garnished with freshly cracked black pepper or additional cheese if desired. Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this delightful meal!

Now you’ve got yourself an easy recipe that’s sure to bring joy during those cozy moments at home!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add broth and pasta. Cook until the pasta is tender before stirring in cheese for a smooth finish.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition. You can also swap out cheeses for a unique flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens.

My friends still rave about the time I made this soup at our game night; we practically licked the bowls clean!

FAQ

What kind of cheese is best for Mac and Cheese Soup?

Sharp cheddar offers great flavor, but feel free to mix cheeses for depth.

Can I make Mac and Cheese Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I thicken my Mac and Cheese Soup?

Add a cornstarch slurry or more cheese to achieve your desired thickness.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Creamy Mac and Cheese Soup

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Mac and Cheese Soup is a cozy delight that combines the classic flavors of mac and cheese in a warm, comforting soup. Perfect for chilly evenings!

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup fresh vegetables (carrots, celery, bell peppers), finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook elbow macaroni in boiling water until al dente, as per package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté until fragrant (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic powder.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and add the cooked pasta along with some reserved pasta water. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Lower the heat and gradually mix in milk while stirring continuously until creamy.
5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Serve hot with additional black pepper if desired.

Notes

• Customize your soup by adding other vegetables such as broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Swap cheeses for unique flavors—consider mozzarella or gouda.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 280g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 60mg