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Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe

4.7 from 137 reviews

This creamy Mac and Cheese Soup is a comforting bowl of cheesy goodness with tender elbow macaroni simmered in a flavorful broth and a rich cheese sauce. Combining sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella, this soup offers a delightful twist on classic mac and cheese, perfect for a cozy meal any day.

Ingredients

Scale

Soup Base

  • 5 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 cup (about ½ pound) elbow macaroni pasta, uncooked

Cheese Sauce

  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups milk
  • 2 cups sharp yellow cheddar cheese, grated
  • ⅓ cup fresh Parmesan cheese, grated
  • ¼ cup mozzarella cheese, grated
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ tablespoon mustard powder

Garnish

  • Fresh green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)
  • Black pepper, freshly cracked (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot, bring the broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, set the macaroni soup aside.
  2. Prepare the Roux: While the macaroni is cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and thickened.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk constantly. Initially, the sauce will thicken and clump but will smooth out as more milk is incorporated. Once smooth, reduce the heat to low and add the grated cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until the cheeses melt fully and the sauce is smooth. Add the garlic powder and mustard powder, stirring to combine evenly.
  4. Combine Soup and Cheese Sauce: Slowly pour the hot cheese sauce into the macaroni and broth mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until fully combined and creamy.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with finely chopped fresh green onions and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve warm for the best comfort experience.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
  • You can substitute milk with half-and-half for a richer soup.
  • For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Do not overcook the macaroni; it will continue to soften in the soup.
  • Freshly grated cheeses melt better than pre-shredded.

Keywords: mac and cheese soup, cheesy soup, comfort food, macaroni soup, easy soup recipe