Description
This creamy Mac and Cheese Soup combines the comforting flavors of classic mac and cheese with the hearty, soothing texture of a soup. Made with sautéed onions, celery, and garlic, thickened with a roux and enriched with sharp cheddar cheese, this recipe serves as a perfect warm meal for any day, ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Sauté Base
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 2 sticks celery, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Soup Base
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup water (if needed)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Pepper (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the butter, chopped onion, and celery to a pot and sauté over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Garlic and Flour: Stir in the minced garlic and flour. Cook for about 2 minutes while continuously stirring to remove the raw flour taste and create a roux.
- Add Broth: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps and the flour is fully dissolved to create a smooth base.
- Add Cream and Seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and salt. Increase heat to high and bring the soup mixture to a boil.
- Add Pasta and Simmer: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid slightly ajar to prevent boiling over.
- Cook Pasta: Allow the soup to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid sticking. If the soup thickens too much, add up to 1/2 cup water or more as needed for consistency.
- Add Cheese and Finish: Turn off the stove and gradually stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Adjust Seasonings: Season with pepper and additional salt if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth to make the soup vegetarian-friendly.
- Adjust the cheese quantity to your preference for cheesiness and thickness.
- Stir often during simmering to prevent pasta from sticking or burning.
- You can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes.
- Adding Worcestershire sauce adds depth to the flavor but can be omitted for a milder taste.
