This creamy Mac and Cheese Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It combines the classic flavors of mac and cheese with a comforting soup texture. Yum!
Who doesn’t love a meal that’s cheesy and easy to make? I usually pair it with some crunchy bread to soak up every bit—because you know, nobody likes to waste cheese! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic for mac and cheese, but you can use small shell pasta or other bite-sized shapes. They all work well, so go with whatever you have on hand!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, but mixing in mozzarella adds extra creaminess. If you’re looking for alternatives, Gouda or Monterey Jack can also deliciously replace cheddar.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth to the soup, but vegetable broth is a great substitute if you’re vegetarian. You can also use homemade broth for a fresh taste!
Bacon: Bacon adds a nice crunch. If you want a vegetarian option, try using smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.
How Do You Create a Creamy Soup Base?
The key to a creamy soup base lies in making a roux. This technique helps thicken your soup while adding flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by melting butter in the pot over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it forms a smooth paste. This helps eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add milk and any leftover chicken broth while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps from forming.
- Keep stirring until the mixture thickens; about 3-5 minutes is ideal.
With these tips, your soup will be velvety smooth and oh-so-delicious!
How to Make Mac and Cheese Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or small shell pasta
Broth & Dairy:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for a creamier texture)
For the Roux:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Cheese:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mac and Cheese Soup takes about 25 minutes in total to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 15 minutes whipping up the creamy soup base and mixing in the ingredients. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet comforting enough for a cozy gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Make the Roux:
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Keep stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn!
3. Create the Soup Base:
Gradually whisk in the milk and any remaining chicken broth. Keep whisking until the mixture starts to thicken, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Seasonings:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Make sure everything is well combined.
5. Add the Cheese:
Now, it’s time to make it cheesy! Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the pot a handful at a time, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. This will make your soup nice and creamy!
6. Combine with Pasta:
Return the cooked pasta to the pot and stir to combine. Give it a good mix so the pasta is well-coated in the cheesy goodness.
7. Stir in Bacon:
Add in the crumbled cooked bacon, saving a little for topping later. Stir well to get that bacon flavor throughout the soup.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the Mac and Cheese Soup in warm bowls. Top with additional bacon crumbles and a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives for a nice finish!
9. Dig In!
Enjoy your warm, cheesy soup! For a delightful touch, serve it with crusty bread for dipping. Perfect for those chill evenings!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the regular elbow macaroni with any gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions, as gluten-free pasta can vary in cooking time.
How Do I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make the soup vegetarian, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon. You can add extra seasonings like smoked paprika to enhance the flavor in place of the bacon’s smokiness!
Can I Prepare This Soup in Advance?
Yes, you can! Cook the soup up to a day ahead, but be aware that the pasta may absorb some of the liquid as it sits. When reheating, just add a splash of milk or broth to get the desired consistency back.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of milk or broth to restore its creaminess.
