Looking for a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Creamy Ham Mac and Cheese Soup recipe! This hearty soup is easy to make and bursting with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of creamy cheese, savory ham, and tender pasta creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- With minimal prep time, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
- The versatility of this recipe allows for ingredient substitutions to cater to dietary restrictions or personal preferences.
Ingredient Notes:
- Pasta and Vegetables
- Elbow macaroni shells
- Carrots
- Peas
- Base and Flavorings
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Yellow onion
- Dijon mustard
- Chicken broth
- Half and half
- Cheese and Protein
- White American cheese
- Ham
- Seasoning
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a large pot, melt butter and sauté onions until translucent.
- Add flour and mustard, stirring to create a roux.
- Gradually add chicken broth, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Stir in half and half, cheese, ham, and cooked pasta.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Helpful Tips:
- For extra creaminess, add more cheese or half and half.
- To boost the flavor, try using smoked ham or adding a sprinkle of paprika.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and pasta.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother texture.
- Allow the soup to simmer on low heat to meld the flavors together.
- Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Creamy Ham Mac and Cheese Soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Pair with a glass of white wine or a cold beer for the perfect touch.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store leftovers, transfer the soup to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
- Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time?
- Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to develop.
- Can I use leftover cooked ham in this recipe?
- Yes, using leftover ham adds a delicious smoky flavor to the soup.
Conclusion:
Warm up with a bowl of this Creamy Ham Mac and Cheese Soup and enjoy the comforting flavors in every spoonful. Don’t forget to share your feedback and let us know how this recipe turned out for you!
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Creamy Ham Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this ham mac and cheese soup, a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 ½ cups uncooked elbow macaroni shells
- 1 cup carrots, diced small (optional)
- 1 cup peas (optional, frozen or fresh)
Base and Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
- 1 small yellow onion, diced or grated
- 1 ½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 quart chicken broth or stock
- 1 ½ cups half and half
Cheese and Protein
- 1 lb whole milk white American cheese, shredded or diced
- 1 cup ham, diced
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Black pepper to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Base: In a large pot, melt butter, add flour, and cook for a minute. Add onion, mustard, broth, and half and half. Bring to a simmer.
- Add Cheese and Protein: Stir in cheese until melted. Add ham, cooked pasta, carrots, and peas. Cook until heated through.
- Season to Taste: Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can add extra vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower for more nutrition.
- Feel free to use different types of cheese for varied flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg