Cheddar Cheese Soup Macaroni Recipe

Who doesn’t love the rich, creamy comfort of cheddar cheese soup? Combine that with macaroni, and you’ve got an irresistible, hearty dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress at a gathering, this Cheddar Cheese Soup Macaroni Recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Let’s take this classic comfort food to the next level. We’re talking creamy, cheesy, with just the right amount of texture from the macaroni. It’s the kind of meal you make when you want to cozy up on a chilly evening or when you need something that brings a bit of nostalgia with every spoonful. Plus, this dish is incredibly versatile, so you can tweak it to your heart’s content!

In this article, we’ll walk through a step-by-step guide on making the perfect Cheddar Cheese Soup Macaroni, explore the ingredients that make this dish shine, and discuss variations and expert tips to ensure your recipe turns out absolutely flawless.

Cheddar Cheese Soup Macaroni Recipe

This recipe is as straightforward as it is delicious. A warm bowl of this soup, with the gooey cheddar cheese and tender macaroni, will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds). It’s rich, velvety, and loaded with flavor-just what you need on a cozy evening.

Ingredients Needed

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Some items might be staples in your pantry, but others will really make this dish shine.

• Macaroni pasta: The classic choice for this dish. Elbow macaroni or any short pasta works best to hold onto all the creamy cheese sauce.
• Cheddar cheese: The star of the show! We recommend sharp cheddar for a tangy, bold flavor, but feel free to mix in mild cheddar for a subtler taste.
• Milk: Whole milk creates the creamiest, dreamiest soup, but you can substitute with 2% if you’re looking to lighten it up a bit.
• Heavy cream: This is what adds that luscious, smooth texture to the soup. If you don’t want to use it, you could swap it with more milk, but it won’t be quite as rich.
• Butter: For sautéing the vegetables and for that extra richness in the soup base.
• Flour: This helps thicken the soup. It’s crucial for getting that perfect creamy texture.
• Onion: A small diced onion adds depth and a slight sweetness to the soup.
• Garlic: A couple of minced garlic cloves bring that savory punch to the soup.
• Chicken broth: For the base. It’s what adds a savory foundation to the creamy cheese and pasta.
• Salt and pepper: To taste-don’t forget these, as they’ll really bring all the flavors together.
• Optional extras: Some fresh parsley or green onions for garnish, or even a dash of hot sauce for a bit of a kick.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get started! This recipe is pretty simple, and you’ll be rewarded with a cheesy, comforting bowl of goodness.

1. Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente). Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In a separate large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Make the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. This will form a paste (called a roux), which will thicken your soup.
4. Add the liquids: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Then, add the milk and heavy cream. Keep stirring as you bring it to a gentle simmer.
5. Melt the cheese: Once the liquid is simmering, reduce the heat to low and begin adding the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the soup becomes smooth and creamy.
6. Combine the macaroni: Add the cooked macaroni to the soup and stir until the pasta is evenly coated. Let it heat through for a few minutes, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Ingredient Insights

Now that we’ve covered the basic recipe, let’s take a deeper look at some of the ingredients that make this Cheddar Cheese Soup Macaroni so special:

• Cheddar Cheese: The choice of cheddar can make or break this dish. Sharp cheddar gives the soup a bolder flavor, while mild cheddar keeps things more subtle. If you’re feeling adventurous, mix sharp cheddar with a bit of Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a more complex flavor profile.
• Heavy Cream: This ingredient contributes to the soup’s rich, velvety texture. While whole milk can be used as a substitute, it won’t have the same indulgent mouthfeel.
• Flour: It may seem like a small detail, but the flour is essential in thickening the soup base. Without it, the soup might feel more like a thin broth than a creamy, comforting meal.
• Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds a savory base that complements the richness of the cheese. If you prefer a vegetarian version, vegetable broth is a perfect substitute without sacrificing flavor.

Expert Tips

Want to take your Cheddar Cheese Soup Macaroni to the next level? Here are a few expert tips to make sure you’re cooking like a pro:

• Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the soup. For a smoother, creamier result, shred your cheddar straight from the block.
• Stir constantly: Once the cheese is added to the soup, make sure you stir continuously over low heat. If the soup gets too hot or if the cheese isn’t properly melted, it can become grainy.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: When cooking the macaroni, keep it on the firmer side (al dente). It will continue to soften once it’s added to the hot soup, and you don’t want it to turn mushy.
• Use a combination of cheeses: While cheddar is the classic choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with other cheeses like Parmesan, Gruyère, or Gouda. These can add an extra layer of richness and complexity.

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about Cheddar Cheese Soup Macaroni is how versatile it is. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any meat-based ingredients for a comforting vegetarian meal.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or some diced jalapeños to give the soup a spicy kick. If you’re a fan of heat, this variation will definitely hit the spot.
• Bacon Lovers: Crumbled crispy bacon adds an irresistible salty crunch. You can either mix it into the soup or use it as a garnish on top.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli, carrots, or even corn for added texture and nutrition. This is a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for the kids (or even for adults who don’t typically eat them).

Final Words

This Cheddar Cheese Soup Macaroni is comfort food at its finest. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, it’s the kind of dish you make when you want something that’s both filling and comforting. Whether you’re serving it on a cold evening or making it for a crowd, it’s sure to be a hit.

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity, but don’t be afraid to get creative. Try different cheeses, add your favorite spices, or throw in some extra toppings. The variations are endless!