If you’ve ever wished you could scoop up a spoonful of your childhood favorite and find it even creamier, more cozy, and utterly soup-able, then you simply have to try Mac & Cheese Soup. This comforting dish transforms all the cheesy, golden magic of traditional macaroni and cheese into a soul-hugging bowl, perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or when only the most comforting meal will do. Each bite balances gooey cheese, tender pasta, and a luscious broth, so you can enjoy your mac and cheese with a twist that’s as satisfying as it is surprising.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here is hand-picked for flavor and texture, coming together to create the dreamy, creamy Mac & Cheese Soup you’ve been craving. From the base of sautéed onions and garlic to the melting cheeses and that all-important swirl of heavy cream, each element matters for that rich, velvety finish.

Butter: This provides a rich foundation and ensures the veggies and flour meld smoothly together.
Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth that balances the richness of cheese.
Garlic: Just two cloves infuse the soup with aromatic warmth.
All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the soup so it’s creamy but not heavy.
Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Forms the backbone of the soup without overpowering the cheesy flavor.
Milk: Brings creaminess and helps marry the cheeses and broth.
Dijon mustard: A little goes a long way to sharpen and brighten the soup.
Paprika: Adds a beautiful color and subtle smoky note.
Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who want a little gentle heat.
Salt and black pepper: The classic seasoning duo that brings everything into focus.
Elbow macaroni: Classic shape, perfect chew! Be sure to cook just until al dente to avoid sogginess.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Delivers the bold, classic cheese-pull flavor.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: For that stretchy, melty experience.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth to balance the richness.
Heavy cream: The finishing swirl for luscious, silky texture.
Chopped green onions, bacon crumbles, or extra cheese for garnish: Adds crunch, color, or an extra dose of cheesy goodness.

How to Make Mac & Cheese Soup

Step 1: Get the Base Going

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling, toss in your finely diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about three to four minutes, just until soft and fragrant. This is where all the flavor begins—let those aromatics work their magic!

Step 2: Build Your Roux

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the buttery mixture, whisking continuously. Cook for about one minute to form a smooth, golden roux, which will thicken your soup beautifully without any lumps.

Step 3: Bring on the Creaminess

Slowly pour in the broth, whisking all the while to keep things smooth and silky. Next, add the milk, still whisking. Keep the heat gentle and bring it all to a simmer. This is where the soup starts its transformation from humble ingredients to creamy comfort.

Step 4: Layer in Flavor

Whisk in the Dijon mustard, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne if you’re feeling bold. Season with salt and black pepper. Let the soup simmer for eight to ten minutes, stirring now and then, until it thickens up a bit—just enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Add Your Macaroni

Stir in the al dente macaroni, turning down the heat to low so the noodles can soak up all that cheddary goodness without getting mushy.

Step 6: Melt That Cheese

Here comes the best part! Add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses in batches, stirring until each addition is melted and smooth. Don’t rush—let that glorious cheese melt slowly for the creamiest result.

Step 7: Finish with Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and give your Mac & Cheese Soup a final two- to three-minute simmer. Taste and adjust for salt and pepper however you like, then get ready to serve it up piping hot.

How to Serve Mac & Cheese Soup

Garnishes

Topping your soup makes all the difference. Add crisp bacon crumbles for a smoky crunch, a handful of extra shredded cheese for ooey-gooey goodness, or a sprinkle of fresh green onions for a pop of color and bite. Each garnish brings a new layer of excitement to every spoonful.

Side Dishes

This soup is rich and filling, so you’ll want something light and fresh alongside it. Try a crisp green salad with zippy vinaigrette or serve warm garlic bread for dunking—trust me, scooping up cheesy broth with bread is pure bliss.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, ladle your Mac & Cheese Soup into small mugs for a cozy appetizer at parties, or serve it in bread bowls for a show-stopping dinner. You can even top with roasted broccoli or shredded chicken for a one-bowl meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Mac & Cheese Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Give it a quick stir before reheating, as the cheese may settle or thicken a bit overnight.

Freezing

Creamy soups can be tricky to freeze, but Mac & Cheese Soup holds up surprisingly well. Cool it completely, then freeze in individual portions for easy lunches. When defrosting, whisk gently as it reheats to bring back that silky texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if it’s too thick. Avoid boiling, which can cause the cheese to turn grainy. Microwave reheating works in a pinch—just cover and stir between bursts.

FAQs

Can I make Mac & Cheese Soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free elbow macaroni and substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the roux. Every other ingredient should be naturally gluten-free, but double-check product labels to be safe.

Is there a way to lighten up this recipe?

For a lighter Mac & Cheese Soup, swap heavy cream for evaporated milk and use skim or 2% milk instead of whole milk. You can also cut back on the cheese a bit or bulk up the soup with steamed cauliflower or broccoli for extra veggies without extra calories.

Can I add protein to the soup?

Definitely! Stir in cooked, shredded chicken or diced ham right before serving for a meaty, heartier version. Even leftover turkey or crumbled sausage work beautifully here.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Make sure your soup base isn’t boiling when you add the cheese—keep it at a gentle simmer or lower. Add cheese in batches and stir until each handful is fully melted before adding more. This keeps things smooth and creamy.

Can I make Mac & Cheese Soup ahead for a crowd?

Yes, this soup is a wonderful make-ahead dish! Prepare it up to two days ahead and gently reheat it just before serving. Add a splash of milk if it thickens too much as it sits, and wait to add toppings until just before serving for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re longing for a new way to enjoy the nostalgic flavors of mac and cheese, Mac & Cheese Soup is sure to become a favorite. It’s loaded with everything you love about the classic, with the extra comfort factor that only a bowl of soup can provide. Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret ladling up warmth, coziness, and a big taste of home!

Mac & Cheese Soup Recipe

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4.8 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy and cheesy Mac & Cheese Soup. A warm and satisfying dish perfect for chilly days.

Ingredients

Scale

Soup Base:

4 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Mac & Cheese Additions:

2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
Chopped green onions, bacon crumbles, or extra cheese for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Saute Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cook until softened.
Create Roux: Whisk in flour, cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Add Broth and Milk: Slowly whisk in broth and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer.
Season and Thicken: Add mustard, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Simmer until slightly thickened.
Incorporate Cheeses: Stir in cooked macaroni. Add cheeses in batches, stirring until melted and smooth.
Finish Soup: Stir in heavy cream, simmer for additional minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve: Garnish with green onions, bacon, or extra cheese.