Creamy Cheesy Macaroni Soup

This Creamy Cheesy Macaroni Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the creamy richness of mac and cheese with the warmth of a hearty soup. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day. With cheddar cheese melting into every spoonful and tender macaroni in a rich, flavorful broth, this soup will warm you up from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines two beloved dishes—mac and cheese and soup—into one incredibly comforting meal. The creamy broth, the soft macaroni, and the rich, melty cheddar cheese create a cozy and satisfying dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Best of all, it’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it an easy option for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something warm and cheesy.

Ingredients

• 1 cup elbow macaroni

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until tender, about 7-8 minutes.

2. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and butter.

3. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and garlic powder, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Extra cheesy: Add more cheese, such as mozzarella or gouda, for a richer, creamier flavor.

• Vegetable option: Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach to the soup for extra nutrition and color.

• Protein boost:bacon bits Stir in cooked chicken to make the soup heartier.

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist on this cheesy soup.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or milk to maintain the creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with any small pasta, such as shells or penne. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of this creamy soup.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.

4. How can I make the soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, you can add more cheese or let it simmer for a few extra minutes. You can also mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the soup to help thicken it.

5. Can I freeze this soup?

While this soup is best fresh, you can freeze it. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly when reheating, especially with the cheese. To freeze, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently.

6. Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It will keep for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat it gently to avoid curdling the cream.

7. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version of the soup. The texture will be slightly less creamy, but it will still be delicious.

8. How do I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to give this cheesy soup a spicy kick.

9. Can I use frozen macaroni?

Yes, you can use frozen macaroni, but be sure to cook it according to package instructions before adding it to the soup.

10. Can I add meat to the soup?

Absolutely! Adding cooked chicken can make this soup more filling and flavorful.

Conclusion

This Creamy Cheesy Macaroni Soup is the perfect comfort food for when you need something warm, cheesy, and satisfying. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly comforting, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or any time you’re craving a cozy meal. With its rich broth, creamy texture, and melty cheese, this soup is sure to become a family favorite!

Creamy Cheesy Macaroni Soup

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Warm up with this Creamy Cheesy Macaroni Soup, a cozy, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of mac and cheese with a hearty soup. With melty cheddar cheese, tender macaroni, and a creamy broth, this soup is ready in just 20 minutes. It’s the perfect meal for chilly days or busy weeknights, offering comfort in every spoonful.

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

1 cup elbow macaroni

4 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

1 tablespoon butter

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

• In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until tender, about 7-8 minutes.

• Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and butter.

• Add the shredded cheddar cheese and garlic powder, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.

• Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.

Notes

• Extra cheesy: Add mozzarella or gouda for a richer flavor.

• Vegetable option: Stir in peas, carrots, or spinach for added color and nutrition.

• Protein boost: Add cooked chicken to make it heartier.

• Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a bit of heat.

• Author: Sophia
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American