If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and irresistibly cheesy, then this Creamy Ham Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s a delightful twist on the classic mac and cheese, turning it into a luscious, velvety soup bursting with tender ham, tender pasta shells, and a rich, cheesy broth that hugs every bite. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you want to impress family with a dish that tastes like a warm hug in a bowl, this recipe balances simplicity and flavor in the best possible way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together with straightforward ingredients that you likely have on hand or can easily find at your local store. Each one plays a vital role — from the creamy texture of the half and half, the punch of the Dijon mustard, to the smoky goodness of the ham that elevates the soup beyond basic comfort food.
- 1 ½ cups uncooked elbow macaroni shells: Small, dry shells work best to capture that cheesy soup in every bite, but feel free to swap in whole wheat or gluten-free versions.
- 1 cup carrots, diced small (optional): Adds a gentle sweetness and lovely color contrast.
- 1 cup peas (optional, frozen or fresh): For a fresh burst of brightness and texture.
- 2 tablespoons butter, plus more for flour: Creates the flavorful base when combined with onions and flour.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose or gluten-free flour: Helps thicken the soup into a luscious, creamy consistency.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced or grated: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the soup.
- 1 ½ teaspoons Dijon mustard: Gives the soup a surprising little tang that perfectly complements the cheese.
- 1 quart chicken broth or stock: Provides a savory foundation that enriches all the flavors.
- 1 ½ cups half and half: For that silky smooth creaminess that sets this soup apart.
- 1 lb whole milk white American cheese, shredded or diced: The star that melts into a gorgeously creamy finish, usually found in the deli section.
- 1 cup ham, diced: Leftover or smoked meats add hearty, savory richness.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning, start with half and adjust to taste.
- Black pepper to taste (optional): Adds warm spice notes to balance the richness.
How to Make Creamy Ham Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Macaroni
Start by cooking your elbow macaroni shells in salted boiling water according to the package directions until they are perfectly al dente. This ensures your pasta holds its shape and texture once added to the soup. Drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking when mixed in later.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Carrots
In a large soup pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Toss in your diced or grated onion along with optional diced carrots. Sauté gently for 5 to 7 minutes until the onions are soft and wonderfully caramelized, releasing a sweet and savory aroma that lays the flavor foundation.
Step 3: Build the Roux with Flour and Mustard
If your pot needs it, add a little more butter to melt. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and stir in the Dijon mustard, cooking everything together for about a minute. This process helps thicken the soup and infuse it with a subtle tang from the mustard, rounding out its cheesiness.
Step 4: Add Broth and Half and Half
Slowly pour in the chicken broth followed by the half and half while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Keep stirring and cook over medium heat until the liquid is steaming and thickened slightly, around 4 to 5 minutes. For those who love an ultra-smooth texture, an immersion blender here will do wonders to blend everything seamlessly.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Turn the heat down to low and gradually add your shredded white American cheese, stirring gently until every last bit melts into a creamy, silky soup. It’s key not to let it reach a boil at this stage, or your cheese could curdle and lose that luscious texture you crave.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Ham
Now stir in your cooked macaroni and diced ham. Let the soup simmer on low for another 4 to 5 minutes to warm everything through and marry the flavors. Season with kosher salt – aiming for about a teaspoon total – and black pepper if you like a touch of heat. Toss in peas just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Creamy Ham Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To bring your Creamy Ham Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe to the next level, consider topping it with fresh chopped parsley, green onions, or crispy bacon bits. These simple touches provide texture contrast and bright flavors that make the experience even more exciting.
Side Dishes
This soup shines all on its own, but pairing it with a crunchy crusty bread or a light garden salad creates a balanced meal. Garlic bread or warm cornbread complement the rich, cheesy base perfectly and help soak up every last delicious drop.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or hollow out small round loaves for individual portions. You can also drizzle a bit of smoky paprika oil or a swirl of sour cream on top for flair and added flavor layers that wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Creamy Ham Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors mellow and deepen.
Freezing
While this soup is best enjoyed fresh for ultimate creaminess, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture might change slightly due to the dairy content once thawed.
Reheating
Reheat leftover soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent scorching. If the soup thickens too much, whisk in a splash of milk or chicken broth to regain that perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While white American cheese delivers that classic creamy melt, you can experiment with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses to change the flavor profile, just keep cheeses that melt smoothly for the best results.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Creamy Ham Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe?
Yes, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding extra mushrooms or roasted veggies can also enhance the soup and keep it hearty and satisfying.
Can I prepare this soup in advance for a crowd?
Definitely! This recipe is excellent for making ahead, especially for gatherings. Prepare everything up to melting the cheese, refrigerate or freeze, and then gently reheat with cheese and pasta when ready to serve.
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the macaroni just until al dente and rinse it under cold water to stop cooking. Adding it at the last stage and heating gently helps keep the pasta from overcooking and turning mushy in the soup.
What can I add for more vegetables?
Carrots and peas are great additions, but you can also toss in diced celery, corn, or spinach toward the end of cooking for more nutrition and color without overpowering the comforting flavors.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Creamy Ham Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that comforts your soul and delights your tastebuds all at once. Whether you’re meal prepping or whipping up something special, this rich, cheesy soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try and enjoy every warm, flavorful spoonful!
Print
Creamy Ham Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Ham Mac and Cheese Soup is a comforting and hearty dish combining tender elbow macaroni, savory ham, and a rich, cheesy broth made creamy with white American cheese and half and half. Perfect for a cozy meal, it incorporates optional vegetables like carrots and peas for added flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 ½ cups uncooked elbow macaroni shells (small, dry shells; may use any smaller pasta shape and/or replace with whole wheat or gluten free shells)
- 1 cup carrots, diced small (optional)
- 1 cup peas (optional, frozen or fresh)
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons butter, plus a little more for flour
- 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 Meat
- 1 lb whole milk white American cheese, shredded or diced (usually found in the deli section)
- 1 cup ham, diced (leftover or other smoked meats)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (to taste, start with ½ teaspoon and work up)
- Black pepper to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside while you prepare the soup base.
- Sauté vegetables: In a large soup pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced or grated onion and, if using, diced carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onions are soft and caramelized, imparting a rich flavor to the soup.
- Add butter and flour mixture: If needed, add an additional tablespoon of butter to the pot and melt it. Stir in the flour and Dijon mustard, continuously stirring for about 1 minute to cook the flour and combine flavors.
- Add liquids and thicken: Slowly pour in the chicken broth and half and half while stirring to avoid lumps. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture is steaming and slightly thickened, about 4-5 minutes. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer to a blender and process in batches until smooth.
- Melt the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded white American cheese until it is fully melted and the soup is creamy. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
- Combine pasta and ham: Stir in the cooked macaroni and diced ham. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for another 4-5 minutes until everything is heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as desired.
- Add peas and serve: For extra freshness and color, stir in peas just before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a different dietary preference.
- Using leftover ham or smoked meats works well to enhance the soup’s flavor and reduce waste.
- If you want thicker soup, add a little more flour during the roux step or reduce the broth slightly.
- For a smoother soup, blending the base after adding liquids improves texture.
- White American cheese is preferred for creaminess and mild flavor, but you can experiment with other mild cheeses if desired.
