Hey fellow food lovers! Nyla here, ready to share a recipe that’s been a total game-changer in my kitchen. We’re talking about something creamy, dreamy, and packed with cheesy goodness. Yep, it’s Mac and Cheese Soup!

I first stumbled upon this recipe during one of my late-night kitchen experiments. I was craving the ultimate comfort food but wanted something a little different. A little…extra. That’s when it hit me: why not turn mac and cheese into a soup?

The excitement was real! I grabbed my favorite cheeses, some macaroni, and a few other ingredients, and got to work. The result was unbelievably amazing. I knew instantly that this Mac and Cheese Soup needed to be shared with the world.

This isn’t your average soup. It’s a creamy, cheesy explosion of flavor that turns any meal into something special. Every spoonful is like a warm hug on a cold day. This Mac and Cheese Soup is pure comfort food bliss!

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can customize it with your favorite cheeses, add in some veggies, or even throw in some cooked bacon for a smoky kick. The possibilities are endless!

Trust me, this Mac and Cheese Soup is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The best part is seeing everyone’s faces light up when they take their first bite. Pure joy!

This recipe isn’t just about following steps. It’s about creating something delicious and memorable. My goal is to show you how to make meals that bring happiness to your table. It’s a bold flavor winner, hands down.

So, grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some delicious Mac and Cheese Soup together! I’m so excited to share this recipe with you and can’t wait to hear what you think. Let’s get cooking!

INGREDIENTS You Need

This Mac and Cheese Soup ingredient list is all about bold flavors that actually work together! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound elbow macaroni: This is the classic choice, but feel free to experiment with other shapes!
6 tablespoons butter: This adds richness and helps create a smooth, creamy base.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This thickens the soup and gives it that perfect velvety texture.
4 cups milk: I use whole milk for the creamiest result, but you can use 2% if you prefer.
2 cups chicken broth: This adds depth of flavor and a savory element to the soup.
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to, but feel free to mix it up with other cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack.
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: For that extra creaminess and delicious flavor.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and warmth.
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth.
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth.
Optional: Cooked bacon crumbles, for topping: Adds a salty, smoky crunch.

No worries if you don’t have all-purpose flour. I use cornstarch all the time in my Mac and Cheese Soup. Just make sure to mix it with a little cold water before adding it to the pot to prevent clumping.

You can grab these ingredients during your normal shopping trip. I always keep these basics in my pantry. Makes whipping up this soup super easy any night of the week.

This Mac and Cheese Soup gets its amazing taste from the combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. The cheddar provides that classic mac and cheese flavor, while the Monterey Jack adds extra creaminess and a mild, buttery note. It’s an incredible match!

Here’s my Mac and Cheese Soup secret that takes it from good to incredible: a splash of hot sauce! I love adding a dash of my favorite hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot) to the soup for a little bit of heat. It balances out the richness of the cheese and adds a surprising twist that everyone loves.

For busy weeknights, you can prep some of the ingredients ahead of time. Shred the cheese and measure out the spices. That way you can save time when you’re ready to cook.

To keep your cheese fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will prevent it from drying out and ensure that it’s ready to use whenever you need it. I love adding extra pepper to my Mac and Cheese Soup for that extra kick!

Let’s Make Some!

This is my favorite part of making Mac and Cheese Soup – watch the magic happen! Follow these simple steps:

First, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. Drain it well and set it aside. Don’t overcook it! You want it to be a little firm since it will continue to cook in the soup.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. This is where the magic starts happening! Make sure the butter is fully melted and coats the bottom of the pot evenly.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the soup. Be careful not to burn the flour!
Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth until smooth. This is important to prevent lumps from forming. Add the milk and broth slowly, whisking continuously to incorporate the flour mixture.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Your Mac and Cheese Soup should smell absolutely incredible right now! This is where the flavors really start to come together.
Reduce the heat to low and add the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Don’t worry if your Mac and Cheese Soup looks a little thick at this point. It will thin out as it simmers.
Stir in the cooked macaroni, salt, pepper, garlic powder and onion powder (if using). Mix well to combine. Make sure the macaroni is evenly distributed throughout the soup.
Simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. This is when the soup thickens up and becomes super creamy. I like to let mine simmer for a little longer to really develop the flavors. In my kitchen, this Mac and Cheese Soup usually takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or cheese to your liking. Remember, this is your Mac and Cheese Soup, so make it your own!
Optional: Stir in a splash of hot sauce for a little kick. Trust me on this one! It adds a surprising depth of flavor that takes this soup to the next level.

While your Mac and Cheese Soup is doing its thing, get ready for some amazing aromas! The combination of cheese, butter, and spices will fill your kitchen with a warm, comforting scent that will make everyone hungry.

For a shortcut, you can use pre-shredded cheese. It saves time and makes the process even easier. I’ve even experimented with using leftover macaroni and cheese to make this soup. It works great and reduces waste! It’s a fun happy accident!

How to Serve Up This!

People literally do happy dances when this Mac and Cheese Soup hits the table with crispy bacon crumbles on top! The smoky, salty bacon adds a delicious contrast to the creamy, cheesy soup. So good!

I also love serving this soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up all that cheesy goodness and makes for a super satisfying meal. And If you’re feeling fancy, you can garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives.

This Mac and Cheese Soup is perfect for those weeknight dinners that need to be special! It’s quick, easy, and always a hit with the whole family. I also love making it for potlucks or game nights. It’s always a crowd-pleaser.

For a fun presentation, serve the soup in individual bowls or mugs. You can even top each serving with a different topping, like bacon, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cheese. That way, everyone can customize their soup to their liking.

If you have any leftover Mac and Cheese Soup (which is rare in my house!), you can easily transform it into a baked mac and cheese casserole. Simply pour the soup into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden brown and bubbly. Yum!

I’ve also experimented with adding different vegetables to this soup. Broccoli, cauliflower, and peas all work well. They add a nutritious boost and a pop of color. And for a fusion twist, try adding a dollop of pesto to the soup before serving. The basil flavor pairs surprisingly well with the cheese.

When I serve this soup, the reactions are always priceless. Kids especially love it, and adults can’t get enough of the creamy, cheesy flavor. It’s a guaranteed smile-maker.

For a bolder flavor pairing, try serving this soup with a side of spicy grilled cheese sandwiches. The heat from the sandwiches complements the richness of the soup perfectly.

FAQs:

Will kitchen newbies succeed with this Mac and Cheese Soup? Absolutely! This recipe is super straightforward and easy to follow. Even if you’ve never made soup before, you can totally nail this one. I promise!

What if I mess up my Mac and Cheese Soup? (Spoiler: it’ll still taste incredible!) Don’t sweat it! Even if you accidentally add too much milk or not enough cheese, it will still be delicious. The beauty of comfort food is that it’s forgiving.

How can I prep this Mac and Cheese Soup for busy weeknights? Great question! You can shred the cheese, measure out the spices, and even cook the macaroni ahead of time. Store everything in separate containers in the refrigerator, and you’ll be able to whip up this soup in no time.

Can I use different types of cheese? Of course! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Gruyere, Fontina, and Pepper Jack all work well in this soup. Just make sure to use a combination of cheeses for the best flavor.

How long does this soup last in the refrigerator? This Mac and Cheese Soup will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container for the best results.

Can I freeze this soup? Yes, you can freeze it, but the texture may change slightly. The macaroni may become a little softer after thawing. To minimize this, cook the macaroni al dente and don’t overcook the soup.

Can I make this soup gluten-free? Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free macaroni and a gluten-free flour blend. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Many brands are available at most large grocery stores during your normal shopping trip.

What if my soup is too thick? If your soup is too thick, simply add a little more milk or chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir well to combine.

I’ve received reader questions about whether you can use pre-shredded cheese? Yes! It saves time. I also sometimes use leftover macaroni and cheese to make this soup. It works great and reduces waste!

I’ve experimented with using different vegetables in this soup. Broccoli, cauliflower, and peas all work well. They add a nutritious boost and a pop of color.

CONCLUSION:

This Mac and Cheese Soup brings me so much joy. It’s the ultimate comfort food that always puts a smile on my face. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. What’s not to love?

My Mac and Cheese Soup Flavor Secrets

Hot Sauce: Don’t be afraid to add a dash of hot sauce for a little kick! It balances out the richness of the cheese and adds a surprising depth of flavor.
Cheese Combination: Use a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses for the best flavor. The cheddar provides that classic mac and cheese flavor, while the Monterey Jack adds extra creaminess.
Simmer Time: Allow the soup to simmer for at least 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will become.

I’ve tested so many delicious Mac and Cheese Soup variations. Here are a few of my favorites:

Bacon Mac and Cheese Soup: Add cooked bacon crumbles to the soup for a smoky, salty flavor. This is perfect for game nights or casual get-togethers.
Broccoli Mac and Cheese Soup: Add steamed broccoli florets to the soup for a healthy and delicious twist. This is great for weeknight dinners when you want to sneak in some extra veggies.
Spicy Mac and Cheese Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the soup for a little heat. This is perfect for those who like a little kick in their comfort food.

This creamy, cheesy Mac and Cheese Soup reminds me of another bold flavor favorite, Cheeseburger Soup. It’s a fantastic option for a family-friendly meal.

Remember, cooking is all about trusting your taste buds and getting creative in the kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients until you find what you love. For another take on mac and cheese, check out this Homemade Mac & Cheese recipe from Spend With Pennies. It promises an extra creamy texture that your family will adore!

I’m so excited for you to try this Mac and Cheese Soup and can’t wait to hear what you think! I’m sure it will quickly become a family favorite. For more weeknight winners that don’t sacrifice on taste, check out my Spicy Black Bean Soup.

Why not give this Mac and Cheese Soup recipe a shot from Spicy Southern Kitchen to compare?

So, go ahead and grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some delicious Mac and Cheese Soup! Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you. Have fun in the kitchen! I know you’ll love it! And if you love adding cheese to everything, why not try my Chicken Parmesan Grilled Cheese. If your kids love this, they’ll go crazy for it!

I’m so excited about your cooking adventures. Tell me what you think! I’m always interested in new twists and tips! And, if you want to share your Mac and Cheese Soup experience, check out this group on how to make homemade mac and cheese with Campbell’s cheddar. See what everyone’s saying about this classic comfort food!

Mac and Cheese Soup is where it’s at! Have fun creating some delicious magic! 💕🔥🍕

Mac and Cheese Soup

Print Recipe

This creamy and comforting Mac and Cheese Soup takes the classic dish and turns it into a hearty bowl of goodness. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Author: Nyla
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional: Chopped green onions for garnish

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Pour in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Stir in Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Add cooked elbow macaroni and cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and soup is smooth.
Simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions, if desired.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup.