Mac And Cheese Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Mac And Cheese Soup
Mac and cheese is a beloved dish, known for its creamy texture and cheesy goodness. But have you ever thought about transforming this classic into a warm, comforting soup? This Mac And Cheese Soup recipe combines the best of both worlds, offering a delightful blend of flavors that will warm your heart and soul. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to become a family favorite.
A Personal Story Behind My Mac And Cheese Soup Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the table for hearty meals, and one dish that always brought us together was mac and cheese. I remember the delightful aroma filling our home, making it feel warm and inviting. One day, I decided to mix things up and create a soup version of this classic dish. The result was a creamy, cheesy soup that not only satisfied our cravings but also sparked joy and nostalgia. Cooking this Mac And Cheese Soup reminds me of those cherished family moments, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
What Makes This Mac And Cheese Soup Recipe Special?
What sets this Mac And Cheese Soup apart is its creamy texture and rich flavor, combined with the satisfaction of pasta in every spoonful. The use of fresh ingredients like sautéed onions, celery, and garlic adds depth to the flavor, while the sharp cheddar cheese brings a delightful kick. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that allows for customization—add crispy bacon bits or fresh herbs for an extra touch. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for any day of the week.
The Full Mac And Cheese Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 2 sticks celery, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 4 cups chicken broth or veggie broth
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup water, if needed
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Pepper, optional, to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, sautéing for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and flour to the pot, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth texture in your soup.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken or veggie broth until the mixture is smooth and well combined, avoiding any lumps.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Increase the heat and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the boiling soup. Reduce the heat to a simmer (medium-low), and cover the pot slightly. This will help cook the pasta evenly.
- Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. If the soup thickens too much, add water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the pasta is cooked through, turn off the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
- Season with pepper and additional salt if desired. For a little extra flavor, consider topping the soup with crispy bacon bits or fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Mac And Cheese Soup
This Mac And Cheese Soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience by serving it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For variations, try different types of cheese such as gouda or mozzarella for a unique twist. You can also add vegetables like broccoli or peas for added nutrition and color. If you enjoy a bit of spice, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or add jalapeños for a kick!
Frequently Asked Questions About Mac And Cheese Soup
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Can I freeze Mac And Cheese Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup, but it’s best to do so before adding the cheese. Once thawed, reheat the soup and stir in the cheese until melted.
What can I use instead of elbow macaroni?
Feel free to substitute elbow macaroni with any small pasta shape such as shells or penne. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta shape you choose.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor, making it a great choice for a family meal.
Mac And Cheese Soup
Equipment
- Large pot For cooking the soup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.25 cup butter
- 0.5 medium onion chopped
- 2 sticks celery chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 4 cups chicken broth or veggie broth
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 0.25 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1 cup elbow macaroni uncooked
- 0.5 cup water if needed
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- optional pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, sautéing for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and flour to the pot, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth texture in your soup.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken or veggie broth until the mixture is smooth and well combined, avoiding any lumps.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Increase the heat and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the boiling soup. Reduce the heat to a simmer (medium-low), and cover the pot slightly. This will help cook the pasta evenly.
- Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. If the soup thickens too much, add water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the pasta is cooked through, turn off the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
- Season with pepper and additional salt if desired. For a little extra flavor, consider topping the soup with crispy bacon bits or fresh herbs like parsley or chives.