Mac & Cheese Soup

Name: Mac & Cheese Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 cups chicken stock; 2½ cups macaroni (elbow or shell), uncooked; ¼ cup butter; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups evaporated milk; 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup Velveeta, cubed; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Sliced green onions (optional)

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

February 20, 2025

Updated:

February 20, 2025

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Cozying up with a warm bowl of Mac & Cheese Soup sounds like the ultimate comfort food, doesn’t it? Imagine creamy cheese flowing over tender pasta, all enveloped in a rich broth that warms your soul. This is not just any soup; it’s an embrace in a bowl, ideal for chilly evenings or whenever you’re yearning for a taste of home. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the joyful familiarity of its flavors. On top of that, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, even on those busy weeknights when time is tight. So, grab your favorite pot, and let’s get cooking!

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Why This Recipe Works

Understanding the Science of Creaminess

The secret to a perfectly creamy Mac & Cheese Soup is a great blend of ingredients and technique. Cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and Velveeta create an indulgent texture that coats the pasta evenly. The evaporated milk adds richness while preventing the soup from being too thick or overly clumpy. This combination ensures every spoonful feels indulgent yet manageable.

Perfect Balance of Flavors

A well-rounded flavor profile is key. The mixture of garlic and onion powders, combined with the sharpness of cheddar and the creaminess of Velveeta, brings a comforting yet exciting taste. The dry mustard adds a subtle tang that elevates the whole dish, leaving your taste buds dancing with joy.

Cooking Techniques to Enhance Texture

Cooking the macaroni right in the chicken stock not only enhances its flavor but also gives the soup a lovely, cohesive taste. Whisking continually when making the roux ensures it doesn’t get lumpy, while slowly adding the milk keeps everything smooth. These techniques are not just for show; they are essential to achieving that desirable silky texture.

Why You’ll Love This Mac & Cheese Soup

Comfort Food Redefined

Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? Now, imagine enjoying that comforting taste in soup form! This Mac & Cheese Soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day. It takes the nostalgic flavor you know and love, reimagining it in a cozy soup that warms both body and spirit.

Quick and Easy for Busy Weeknights

Life gets busy, but this soup is here to save the day. It’s super quick to prepare—under 30 minutes from start to finish! You can manage this on a weeknight when you’re juggling a million things, making it an ideal solution for dinner stress.

Customizable to Suit Your Taste

Feeling adventurous? You can easily tailor this soup to your liking. Want a little spice? Add some diced jalapeños. Prefer a creamier texture? Toss in more cream cheese or add a dash more evaporated milk. This flexibility means you’ll have a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe at your fingertips.

Ingredients for Mac & Cheese Soup

8 cups chicken stock
2½ cups macaroni (elbow or shell), uncooked
¼ cup butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups evaporated milk
8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Velveeta, cubed
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Sliced green onions (optional)

Cooking the Perfect Mac & Cheese Soup

Heat Up the Chicken Stock

Start by pouring 8 cups of chicken stock into a medium stockpot. Place it over medium-high heat and bring it to a boil. This step serves as the flavorful backdrop for your soup.

Add the Pasta

Once boiling, it’s time to add 2½ cups of your chosen macaroni. Cook until al dente, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Remember, don’t drain the pasta; it keeps all those lovely flavors.

Make the Roux

While the pasta cooks, grab a separate saucepan and melt ¼ cup of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Continue whisking constantly for about 2 minutes. This creates a roux that thickens your soup, giving it that luxurious texture.

Create the Creamy Base

Now add 2 cups of evaporated milk slowly to your roux. Whisk continuously until it’s nice and smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and dry mustard powder. This mixture is going to provide a wonderful flavor base.

Thicken the Soup

Allow this mixture to cook, continuing to whisk until it thickens to your liking. Keep an eye on it, as this step is crucial in achieving that perfect soup consistency.

Incorporate the Cheeses

Next, it’s time to bring in the stars of the show. Reduce the heat and gently stir in 8 ounces of cubed cream cheese, 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of cubed Velveeta. Whisk until fully melted and smooth.

Combine and Heat

Once the cheese is melted, carefully add your macaroni and chicken stock mixture to the cheese base. Stir well until everything is combined and heated through, making sure to avoid boiling to keep that beautiful creaminess.

Season to Taste

Give your soup a taste test. Add salt and pepper as desired to enhance the flavors. Remember, the cheeses might already add a bit of saltiness, so adjust accordingly.

Serve with Garnishes

For that extra touch, you can garnish each bowl with more cheese or a sprinkle of sliced green onions if you want some freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This Mac & Cheese Soup is divine on its own, but a little something extra can elevate your experience. Consider serving it with:
– Garlic bread for that extra crunch.
– A fresh side salad to balance the richness.
– Crispy bacon or toasted breadcrumbs sprinkled on top for added texture.

Tips for Success

Freshly shredded cheese melts much better than pre-shredded packs, ensuring a smooth and creamy result.
Avoid boiling the soup once the cheese is added, as it can cause a grainy texture.

Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe:
– Toss in cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a nutritious boost.
– Use gluten-free pasta if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.

Storage Tips

To keep any leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat gently over the stovetop. A splash of chicken stock can help restore its creaminess if needed.

Pairing Ideas

If you’re in the mood for a little something extra, pair your soup with a crisp white wine or a light lager. This combination adds a delightful twist to your meal!

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this mac & cheese soup vegetarian?
A1: Absolutely! Just switch out the chicken stock for vegetable broth, and use vegetarian cheese.

Q2: How can I make the soup spicier?
A2: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños while you’re cooking for a little extra kick.

Q3: Can I freeze mac & cheese soup?
A3: While freezing is an option, be mindful that the texture might change after thawing. It’s best when enjoyed fresh.

Q4: What’s the best way to reheat the soup?
A4: Reheat slowly over medium heat on the stovetop, adding some broth to help regain that creamy consistency.

Q5: Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
A5: Yes! Substitute with dairy-free cheese options and plant-based milk for a creamy vegan version.

Enjoy a heartwarming bowl of Mac & Cheese Soup that blends the best of comfort food with effortless preparation. Whether it’s a quick dinner on a busy day or a cozy meal with loved ones, this soup is sure to please every palate. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and create something delicious!

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Mac & Cheese Soup