Mac 'N Cheese Soup
Creamy and hearty Mac 'N Cheese Soup combines cheesy flavors with broccoli and ham, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings that crave a savory, satisfying taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- Chop broccoli and onion.
- Combine broccoli, onion, and water in a 4-quart pan.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes.
- Do not drain.
- Stir in cooked macaroni, cheese sauce from package, milk, cheese soup, and ham.
- Return to a boil, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or a splash of heavy cream. If you don’t have broccoli, feel free to substitute with spinach or peas. You can enhance the flavor by adding garlic or a pinch of paprika. For a twist, try incorporating some shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Mac 'N Cheese Soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for added color and flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside the Fresh Layered Lettuce Salad to balance the richness of the soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk to the soup to maintain its creaminess and heat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving as it may change the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mac 'N Cheese Soup contains roughly 628 calories, with 11g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value), calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 667mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Mac 'N Cheese Soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of water. You could also add more vegetables like peppers or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and texture.
How can I make this soup spicier?
For a spicier version, add a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mix. You could also mix in a few dashes of hot sauce just before serving to customize the heat level to your preference.
Can I freeze leftovers of Mac 'N Cheese Soup?
While you can freeze this soup, keep in mind that the texture may change upon thawing. If you choose to freeze it, allow it to cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove, adding a bit more milk if needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).