This Mac and Cheese Soup is a cozy bowl of comfort! It combines creamy cheese and tender pasta in a warm soup, perfect for chilly days.
Honestly, who wouldn’t want their favorite mac and cheese in a bowl of soup? It’s like a warm hug that you can sip! I love making it on lazy weekends for easy, cheesy happiness.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: I love using crispy bacon for that smoky flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, you can swap it with chopped mushrooms or skip it altogether for a meat-free version.
Butter: Unsalted butter is used here, but you can replace it with olive oil or even a plant-based butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings the best flavor! If you’re in a pinch, mix in some Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different spin. Vegan cheese could also work for a dairy-free soup.
Elbow Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is classic, but any small pasta like shells or fusilli works well too. Gluten-free pasta is an option if needed!
How Do You Create a Smooth, Creamy Base for Your Soup?
The roux is a crucial step for achieving that creamy consistency. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by cooking the bacon; it adds flavor and fat.
- In the left-over bacon fat, melt the butter and stir in the flour. Cook it for 1-2 minutes until it becomes a thick paste without lumps.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly. This helps prevent any clumps while the mixture thickens.
Taking your time here makes a huge difference for a deliciously creamy soup!
How to Make Mac and Cheese Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 slices bacon
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mac and Cheese Soup takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick dinner option that brings comfort and warmth to your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. This will make your kitchen smell amazing! Once done, take it out and place it on a paper towel to drain any excess grease. Once it’s cool, crumble the bacon into pieces. Save about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the pot, and you can discard the rest or keep it for future use.
2. Make the Roux:
Add the unsalted butter to the pot with the reserved bacon fat. Melt it over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This mixture is called a roux, and it will help thicken your soup!
3. Add the Liquids:
Slowly pour in the whole milk and chicken broth while whisking continuously. This prevents any lumps from forming. Keep stirring until the mixture comes to a simmer and starts to thicken, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Add the elbow macaroni to the pot. Cook it until it’s tender, which will take about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to stir it occasionally so it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
5. Stir in the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low, then add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir it in until it melts and the soup is smooth. This is where the magic happens, transforming it into the creamy soup you crave!
6. Season to Taste:
Season your soup with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir to mix everything together. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the delicious soup into bowls and garnish each serving with crumbled bacon and sliced green onions. This adds a nice crunch and flavor!
8. Enjoy!
Serve it hot and dig in! This cozy mac and cheese soup is perfect for chilly days and will surely warm you up. Enjoy every cheesy bowl!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat elbow macaroni works well for a healthier twist. If you need a gluten-free option, just select your favorite gluten-free pasta. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Mac and Cheese Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. You can also add extra veggies like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition!
What Should I Do If the Soup Is Too Thick?
If the soup turns out too thick for your liking, simply stir in a bit more milk or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. Warm it on low heat while stirring, and it will come together beautifully!
