Description

Mac and Cheese Soup is rich, creamy, and packed with cheesy comfort in every spoonful. Tender elbow macaroni cooks in a savory broth, then gets finished with sharp cheddar and Parmesan for a cozy bowl that tastes like classic mac and cheese in soup form.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

4 cups chicken broth

2 cups whole milk

1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked

3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1/2 teaspoon mustard powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons chopped green onions, optional for garnish

4 tablespoons cooked bacon, optional for garnish

1 teaspoon hot sauce, optional for serving

Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.

2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1 minute to create a roux.

4. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk until smooth.

5. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni.

6. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

7. Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar, Parmesan, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until fully melted and smooth.

8. Ladle into bowls and top with green onions, bacon, or hot sauce if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Shred the cheese from a block for the smoothest texture, since pre-shredded cheese can make the soup grainy.

If the soup thickens as it sits, stir in a splash of milk or broth while reheating.

For extra flavor, add cooked bacon, paprika, or a pinch of cayenne before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 465
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 980 mg
Fat: 25 g
Saturated Fat: 14 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 23 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: mac and cheese soup, cheesy soup, comfort food soup, creamy macaroni soup