Mac & Cheese Soup Recipe

This Mac & Cheese Soup is a creamy and comforting twist on a classic comfort food! Imagine a rich and cheesy broth filled with tender pasta shells and a medley of flavorful vegetables. This recipe is easy to make and delivers a satisfying and delicious soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of heavy cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese creates a luxuriously creamy and cheesy soup that’s both comforting and indulgent.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The blend of vegetables, herbs, and spices adds a depth of flavor to the soup, while the pasta shells provide a hearty and satisfying texture.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or pasta shapes.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Olive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables.
• Onion, carrots, and celery: A classic mirepoix that provides a flavorful base for the soup.
• Garlic: Adds a fragrant and savory punch.
• Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
• Cayenne pepper: Adds a spicy kick (adjust to your preference).
• Mustard powder: Adds a subtle tanginess and depth of flavor.
• Nutmeg: Adds a warm and slightly sweet spice note.
• Vegetable broth: Forms the base of the flavorful soup.
• All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the soup.
• Pasta shells: A fun and versatile pasta shape that’s perfect for soups and casseroles.
• Heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the soup.
• Cream cheese: Adds another layer of creaminess and tangy flavor.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp and cheesy flavor.
• Garnishes: Chopped chives, green onions, or bacon crumbles for added flavor and texture.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Mac & Cheese Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the chopped garlic, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, mustard powder, and nutmeg. Cook for 3-4 minutes more, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Add about 1 cup of the vegetable broth and the flour to the pot. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

While stirring constantly, slowly pour in the remaining vegetable broth. Add the pasta shells and bring the soup to a simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish

Stir in the heavy cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle the Mac & Cheese Soup into bowls and garnish with chopped chives, green onions, or bacon crumbles, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use high-quality cheese: For the best flavor, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese and a good-quality cream cheese.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the soup.
• Adjust the consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to reduce.
• Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as diced zucchini, bell peppers, or corn.

How to Serve

This Mac & Cheese Soup is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping and sopping up the creamy soup.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mac & Cheese Soup is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can! Other small pasta shapes, such as ditalini, macaroni, or even rotini, would work well in this recipe.

2. Can I make this soup vegetarian? Yes, you can! This recipe is already vegetarian. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if you prefer.

3. Can I add meat to this soup? Absolutely! Cooked and shredded chicken, ham, or bacon would be delicious additions to this soup.

4. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, you can! Sauté the vegetables first, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pasta is tender.

This Mac & Cheese Soup Recipe is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting twist on a classic dish. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and satisfying flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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