Mac and Cheese Soup Comfort

This cozy Mac and Cheese Soup transforms everyone's favorite comfort food into a creamy bowl of pure happiness. Each spoonful is loaded with melty cheese and tender pasta, making it perfect for chilled evenings or anytime you crave something soothing yet easy to make.

I first made this on a rainy afternoon for my niece and nephew. Now whenever they visit they ask for this soup it has become a sweet family tradition.

Ingredients

• Chicken broth: brings deep flavor and savory backbone to the soup use a reduced sodium variety for more control
• Elbow macaroni: the classic Mac shape holds cheese beautifully cook just to al dente
• Butter: gives richness and acts as the flavorful base try to use real butter for the creamiest result
• All purpose flour: helps make a creamy soup base look for unbleached for subtle flavor
• Garlic: infuses the soup with hearty aroma and depth fresh minced is best
• Milk: helps create a velvety sauce use whole milk for a richer soup
• Spreadable cream cheese: makes the soup extra creamy and tangy look for one with fewer additives
• Sharp cheddar cheese: gives bold classic Mac and Cheese flavor grate it yourself for best melt
• Swiss cheese or extra cheddar: adds gooeyness and nuttiness shop for a block and shred fresh
• Onion powder: adds a sweet undertone choose high quality for best aroma
• Dry mustard powder: brings savory warmth a little goes a long way
• Salt: to enhance all the flavors
• Black pepper: for the gentle kick freshly cracked is best

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil the Pasta:

In a medium pot bring the chicken broth to a boil and add elbow macaroni Stir gently and cook until the noodles are just al dente as this helps them keep their shape and soak up more flavor Do not drain

Make the Roux:

While the pasta cooks melt butter in a separate saucepan Then whisk in the flour and cook for a full minute to remove any raw flour taste You will notice a gentle nutty aroma

Build the Sauce:

Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant about 30 seconds Next slowly whisk in the milk a bit at a time whisking constantly until you get a silky smooth base

Season and Thicken:

Add the onion powder dry mustard powder salt and black pepper Continue to cook over medium heat whisking often until bubbly and thick Let it gently boil for about one minute this is key for rich texture

Melt in the Cheeses:

Lower the heat and add cream cheese shredded cheddar and Swiss cheese Whisk until the cheeses fully melt and the sauce is smooth and luxurious

Combine and Heat Through:

Pour the cooked pasta and chicken broth into the cheese sauce Stir everything together and let it warm over medium heat for about three minutes This lets the flavors mingle and the soup thicken to the perfect consistency

Final Touches:

Taste and adjust seasoning with a little extra salt and pepper if needed For a special finish sprinkle extra cheese or a bit of fresh parsley on top

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This soup always reminds me of my younger brother He used to sneak cheddar straight out of the fridge as a kid and now we laugh about it whenever I make this recipe The scent of bubbling cheese always takes me back home

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days You may notice the soup thickens as it sits Add a bit of milk or broth when reheating to restore that creamy texture Soup is best reheated gently on the stovetop for the smoothest result

Ingredient Substitutions

Vegetable broth works perfectly for a vegetarian version You can use any short pasta like shells or ditalini if you do not have elbow macaroni Smoked cheddar or Gruyere add extra depth if you want to change up the cheese Dairy free spreadable vegan cheese and plant based butter make a good swap if dairy is an issue

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Serving Suggestions

Top each bowl with extra shredded cheese a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of hot sauce Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast for dunking Add steamed broccoli or peas right at the end for a veggie boost Serve as a fun twist on classic Mac and Cheese night

Cultural Context

Mac and Cheese in soup form is a creative American spin on an old favorite The transformation from casserole to soup shows how adaptable comfort food can be Families everywhere have their version of cheesy pasta and this recipe makes it even cozier

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while elbow macaroni is classic, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like shells or ditalini. Just cook until al dente.

→ What cheese works best for this dish?

Sharp cheddar delivers classic flavor, while Swiss adds creamy depth. Feel free to try smoked cheddar or Gruyère for a twist.

→ How can I make this vegetarian?

Simply replace chicken broth with a good quality vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version with the same rich flavors.

→ How do I prevent the soup from thickening too much?

If the soup becomes too thick as it stands, stir in a bit more warm broth before serving to loosen it up to your preferred consistency.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare it in advance. Reheat gently with extra broth to restore creaminess as needed.