Mac N Cheese Soup
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this rich and creamy Mac N Cheese Soup, a soul-warming twist on the classic dish we all know and love. Combining tender macaroni with a velvety cheese base made from sharp cheddar, parmesan, and cream cheese, this soup is the perfect blend of indulgence and nostalgia. Seasoned with a hint of paprika and mustard powder, each spoonful delivers a deliciously savory depth of flavor. Optional add-ins like crispy bacon or ham take it to the next level, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Ready in just 40 minutes, this hearty soup is perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prepping for a week of satisfying lunches. Try this one-pot wonder today and experience mac and cheese in the most comforting way!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 cup cooked bacon or ham (optional), chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional), chopped
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. The mixture should have a smooth, paste-like consistency.
Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Once fully incorporated, add the chicken or vegetable broth and continue whisking until the mixture begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated parmesan cheese, and cream cheese. Continue stirring until all cheeses are melted and the soup becomes creamy and smooth.
Season the soup with paprika, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Add the cooked macaroni to the soup and stir to combine. If using, stir in the chopped bacon or ham for added flavor.
Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick, you can add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, extra shredded cheese, or crumbled bacon if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3739 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 269.2 g | 345% | |
| Saturated Fat | 151.4 g | 757% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 818 mg | 273% | |
| Sodium | 9679 mg | 421% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 153.5 g | 56% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.0 g | 21% | |
| Total Sugars | 53.7 g | ||
| Protein | 191.1 g | 382% | |
| Vitamin D | 11.9 mcg | 60% | |
| Calcium | 3889 mg | 299% | |
| Iron | 7.9 mg | 44% | |
| Potassium | 2832 mg | 60% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
