Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe

If you have a soft spot for comforting classics, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe. Imagine everything you love about creamy, cheesy mac and cheese transformed into a rich, velvety soup that warms you from the inside out. This recipe balances the perfect blend of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses with cozy spices and tender macaroni, delivering a dish that’s both indulgent and soul-satisfying. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress your friends with minimal fuss, this Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe is the kind of culinary hug that will have you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, wholesome ingredients come together beautifully in this Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe. Each element adds a layer of flavor, texture, or color, making this soup irresistibly vibrant and comforting.

• 2 cups elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds the creamy soup perfectly.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps to sauté the aromatics.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides a sweet, mellow base flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses subtle pungency and depth.
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Creates the savory, flavorful liquid foundation.
• 2 cups milk: Brings creaminess and balances savory elements.
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: The star ingredient for that unmistakable cheesy tang.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty complexity and silky texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the soup’s natural flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle, warming bite.
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Imparts a subtle smokiness for depth.
• 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder: Brightens the cheese flavors with a mild tang.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the soup to creamy perfection.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Adds extra smoothness and body.
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional): For a pop of color and fresh sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Brings a fresh, herbaceous finish.

How to Make Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your elbow macaroni until it’s perfectly al dente. This means the noodles will be tender but still have a slight bite, allowing them to hold up beautifully once combined with the creamy soup.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat, then add the chopped onion. Cook it gently until it softens and becomes translucent, a process that takes about 5 minutes and enhances the soup’s natural sweetness. Toss in the minced garlic last and cook for one more minute to bring out its fragrant aroma without overpowering the dish.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour and cornstarch over the softened onions and garlic. Stir steadily for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture turns lightly golden and releases a toasty scent. This step is the key to that luscious, thickened soup texture that makes this Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe so comforting.

Step 4: Add Broth and Milk

Slowly pour in the milk and broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer—this careful approach ensures your soup base stays silky smooth.

Step 5: Season the Soup

Now it’s time to season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and mustard powder. These ingredients elevate the cheese’s flavor, giving the soup a subtle kick and complexity that will keep your taste buds intrigued throughout the meal.

Step 6: Melt in the Cheddar Cheese

Add the shredded cheddar cheese gradually, stirring constantly. This slow incorporation helps the cheese melt evenly, creating that signature creamy cheese soup texture you crave.

Step 7: Stir in Parmesan Cheese

Once the cheddar is fully melted, mix in the Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of rich, nutty flavor and smoothness. It’s the finishing cheese touch that makes this Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe truly memorable.

Step 8: Add Optional Peas

If you’re including frozen peas, stir them in now and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. They add a delightful pop of green and a touch of natural sweetness that balances the savory flavors.

Step 9: Combine Pasta and Soup

Finally, fold the cooked macaroni into the soup, mixing everything thoroughly. This step transforms the soup into a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect on a chilly evening or anytime you want a warm comfort food fix.

Step 10: Final Taste and Serve

Give the soup a quick taste and adjust any seasonings if necessary. Then ladle it into bowls and prepare for some serious comfort food love!

How to Serve Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing is your chance to add a burst of color and a fresh contrast. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley brings brightness and a subtle herbal note that complements the cheesy richness beautifully. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika on top for a finishing touch that ties in the soup’s flavor.

Side Dishes

This soup is rich and filling, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some crusty garlic bread can elevate the meal even further. The contrast between crunchy, fresh sides and creamy soup creates a balanced dining experience you’ll appreciate from start to finish.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests or make dinner feel extra special? Serve the Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe in mini bread bowls, where the hollowed-out bread doubles as an edible bowl, soaking up all that cheesy goodness. Alternatively, garnish with crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions for added texture and flavor layers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, making it an even tastier lunch the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup, but be aware that the texture may change slightly because of the cheese and pasta. For best results, store it without the macaroni, then add freshly cooked pasta when reheating. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

When reheating, do it gently over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating or becoming grainy. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup seems too thick, restoring its creamy consistency perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Parmesan create the classic flavor, you can experiment with gouda, fontina, or even a little blue cheese for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that cheese melting qualities affect texture.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and you will have a delicious vegetarian Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe without sacrificing any flavor.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, try using plant-based milk alternatives like oat or almond milk, and vegan cheese substitutes. The soup texture will be slightly different, but it can still be wonderfully creamy.

What’s the best pasta to use?

Elbow macaroni is traditional and perfect for this soup because its shape catches the creamy broth. However, small shells, ditalini, or mini penne can also work nicely.

Can I add vegetables or proteins to the soup?

Definitely! Frozen peas, as in the recipe, add a nice touch, but you can also stir in cooked bacon, diced ham, or sautéed mushrooms to make the soup even heartier.

Final Thoughts

This Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe is a total game-changer for anyone who loves comfort food with soul. It’s easy to make, utterly delicious, and versatile enough to suit any mood or occasion. Once you try it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a family favorite and your go-to soup whenever you want a meal to hug you from the inside. Grab your pot and give it a whirl—you won’t regret it!

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