This comforting macaroni and cheese soup with broccoli is perfect for a cozy night in. It's a delightful twist on the classic mac and cheese, transformed into a creamy, delicious soup that's loaded with vegetables and flavor.
When heading to the supermarket, keep an eye out for dry mustard and nutmeg, as these are not always common in every household pantry. Additionally, aim to get 2% sharp cheddar to give the soup its rich and authentic flavor.
Ingredients for Macaroni and Cheese Soup with Broccoli
elbow pasta: The base of the soup, providing the comforting macaroni texture.
onion: Adds a slight sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
carrot: Provides a touch of sweetness and color to the soup.
celery: Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor and crunch.
garlic: Gives a pungent and savory element to the broth.
butter: Used to sauté the vegetables and add richness.
flour: Helps to thicken the soup to a creamy consistency.
chicken broth: Forms the base of the soup, adding a savory depth.
milk: Adds creaminess without making the soup too heavy.
nutmeg: A pinch adds warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
dry mustard: Provides a subtle tanginess that enhances the cheese flavor.
salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.
pepper: Adds a bit of heat and enhances the savory taste.
broccoli florets: Adds a healthy and tasty vegetable component to the soup.
sharp cheddar: Melts into the soup, giving it a rich cheesy flavor.
parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty and salty flavor to complement the cheddar.
One reader, Annabell Sells says:
This macaroni and cheese soup with broccoli is a delightful comfort food! The creamy texture and cheesy flavor blend perfectly with the tender broccoli. It's easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Cooking Techniques for Macaroni and Cheese Soup With Broccoli
How to boil pasta: Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions for al dente. Drain and set aside. How to chop vegetables: Chop onion, carrot, celery, and garlic by hand or using a mini food processor. How to sauté vegetables: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt butter and add chopped vegetables. Sauté on low heat until soft, about 5 minutes. How to make a roux: Add flour and fresh pepper to the pot and stir until smooth. How to whisk liquids: Slowly add chicken broth, milk, nutmeg, and dry mustard powder, whisking constantly. How to cook broccoli: Add broccoli florets to the soup and cook uncovered for about 5 minutes until broccoli is cooked. How to melt cheese: Remove the soup from heat and wait until it stops boiling. Add cheddar cheese a little at a time, mixing well until cheese melts. How to combine pasta and soup: Return the cooked elbows to the soup and mix well. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.
How To Make Macaroni and Cheese Soup with Broccoli
Macaroni and cheese soup? Yup, that’s right! This version of the classic mac ‘n cheese is made with cheddar, broccoli, and vegetables… in a soup!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 4ozdry elbow pasta,or small shape
- 1½cupsonion,chopped
- 1large carrot,chopped
- 1celery stalk,chopped
- 2garlic cloves,minced
- 1tbspsalted butter
- 2tbspflour
- 2½cupsfat-free low sodium chicken broth,or vegetable broth
- 1cupfat-free milk
- pinchnutmeg
- ½tspdry mustard
- salt and fresh pepper,to taste
- 2cupsbroccoli florets,chopped into small pieces
- 1½cups2% sharp cheddar,best to grate yourself
- 2tbspparmesan cheese
Instructions
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Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions for al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Chop onion, carrot, celery, garlic by hand or mini food processor.
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In a large soup pot or dutch oven, melt light butter. Add chopped vegetables and sauté on low heat until soft, about 5 minutes.
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Add flour and fresh pepper to the pot and stir until smooth.
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Slowly add chicken broth, milk, nutmeg, and dry mustard powder, whisking constantly.
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Set heat to medium-low and let it come to a slow boil. Cover and cook on Low for about 10 to 15 minutes.
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Add broccoli florets, parmesan cheese, and stir well. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
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Cook for about 5 minutes, uncovered until broccoli is cooked. Remove from heat and wait until it stops boiling.
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Add cheddar cheese a little at a time, mixing well until cheese melts.
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Return the cooked elbows to the soup and mix well; adjust salt and pepper if needed.
Recipe Notes
Eat right away so the pasta doesn’t absorb all the broth.
Nutrition
- Calories: 240.86kcal
- Fat: 7.59g
- Saturated Fat: 4.10g
- Trans Fat: 0.19g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.05g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.63g
- Carbohydrates: 32.09g
- Fiber: 2.44g
- Sugar: 6.08g
- Protein: 12.54g
- Cholesterol: 17.94mg
- Sodium: 723.91mg
- Calcium: 255.00mg
- Potassium: 497.64mg
- Iron: 1.19mg
- Vitamin A: 281.75µg
- Vitamin C: 32.00mg
Expert Technique Tip for Enhancing Macaroni and Cheese Soup With Broccoli
To ensure a smooth and creamy texture in your macaroni and cheese soup, make sure to whisk the flour thoroughly with the butter and vegetables to create a roux before adding the chicken broth and milk. This step helps to prevent lumps and ensures an even consistency throughout the soup.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Macaroni and Cheese Soup With Broccoli
Pre-chop vegetables: Chop the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic in advance and store them in the fridge.
Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded sharp cheddar and parmesan cheese.
Frozen broccoli: Opt for frozen broccoli florets to skip the washing and chopping.
One-pot method: Cook the elbow pasta directly in the soup pot to reduce cleanup.
Food processor: Use a mini food processor to quickly chop the vegetables.
Substitute Ingredients For Macaroni and Cheese Soup with Broccoli Recipe
dry elbow pasta - Substitute with whole wheat pasta: Adds more fiber and nutrients.
dry elbow pasta - Substitute with gluten-free pasta: Suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Provides a milder, sweeter flavor.
onion - Substitute with leeks: Adds a subtle onion-like flavor with a hint of sweetness.
large carrot - Substitute with parsnips: Offers a similar texture with a slightly sweeter taste.
large carrot - Substitute with sweet potato: Adds a different sweetness and a creamy texture.
celery stalk - Substitute with fennel: Provides a similar crunch with a slight anise flavor.
celery stalk - Substitute with bok choy: Adds a mild flavor and crunchy texture.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Convenient and provides a similar flavor.
garlic cloves - Substitute with shallots: Adds a mild garlic-like flavor.
salted butter - Substitute with olive oil: A healthier fat option with a rich flavor.
salted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Adds a subtle coconut flavor and is dairy-free.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Thickens the soup without gluten.
flour - Substitute with arrowroot powder: A gluten-free thickening agent.
fat-free low sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Makes the dish vegetarian.
fat-free low sodium chicken broth - Substitute with beef broth: Adds a richer, heartier flavor.
fat-free milk - Substitute with almond milk: A dairy-free alternative with a mild flavor.
fat-free milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Adds a creamy texture and subtle coconut flavor.
nutmeg - Substitute with cinnamon: Provides a warm, sweet flavor.
nutmeg - Substitute with allspice: Adds a similar warm, spicy flavor.
dry mustard - Substitute with dijon mustard: Adds a tangy, slightly spicy flavor.
dry mustard - Substitute with yellow mustard: Provides a milder mustard flavor.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness.
fresh pepper - Substitute with white pepper: Provides a similar heat with a slightly different flavor.
broccoli florets - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Offers a similar texture and mild flavor.
broccoli florets - Substitute with spinach: Adds a different texture and a mild, earthy flavor.
2% sharp cheddar - Substitute with mozzarella: Provides a milder, creamy flavor.
2% sharp cheddar - Substitute with gouda: Adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Offers a similar salty, tangy flavor.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: A dairy-free option with a cheesy flavor.
Presentation Tips for Serving Macaroni and Cheese Soup With Broccoli
Serve in elegant bowls: Choose sleek, white porcelain bowls to highlight the vibrant colors of the macaroni and cheese soup with broccoli.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprinkle of finely chopped chives or parsley on top to enhance the visual appeal and add a burst of freshness.
Drizzle with truffle oil: A light drizzle of truffle oil over the soup will add a luxurious aroma and depth of flavor, elevating the dish to a gourmet level.
Use a parmesan crisp: Create a delicate parmesan crisp by baking grated parmesan cheese until golden and crispy. Place it delicately on the side of the bowl for added texture and sophistication.
Add a dollop of crème fraîche: A small dollop of crème fraîche in the center of the soup will add a creamy richness and a touch of elegance.
Serve with artisan bread: Accompany the soup with a slice of warm, crusty artisan bread to provide a satisfying contrast in texture and a complete dining experience.
Use microgreens for a pop of color: Top the soup with a few microgreens to add a vibrant pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Present with a side of roasted vegetables: Serve a small side dish of roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers to complement the flavors of the soup and add visual interest.
Incorporate edible flowers: Garnish the soup with a few delicate edible flowers for a touch of whimsy and elegance that will impress even the most discerning culinary professionals.
Serve with a wine pairing: Recommend a crisp, chilled white wine such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy, cheesy flavors of the soup.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Soup Recipe
Large soup pot: Used to cook the vegetables, broth, and soup mixture. It provides ample space for all the ingredients to combine and cook evenly.
Dutch oven: An alternative to the large soup pot, it retains heat well and is perfect for slow-cooking the soup.
Mini food processor: Handy for chopping the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic quickly and uniformly.
Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables if you prefer to do it by hand.
Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for chopping vegetables.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the chicken broth, milk, and other liquid ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring small quantities of ingredients like flour, butter, nutmeg, and dry mustard.
Whisk: Helps to blend the flour, broth, milk, and spices smoothly without lumps.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the vegetables and soup mixture without scratching the pot.
Colander: Used to drain the cooked pasta.
Grater: Needed to grate the parmesan cheese if it's not pre-grated.
Ladle: Useful for serving the soup into bowls.
Pot holders: Protect your hands when handling hot pots and pans.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Macaroni and Cheese Soup With Broccoli
- Allow the macaroni and cheese soup to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled soup into an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
- When reheating the refrigerated soup, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen up the consistency, as the pasta will absorb some of the liquid over time.
- If freezing, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat frozen macaroni and cheese soup, first thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Then, transfer the thawed soup to a pot and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add some extra chicken broth or milk to achieve the desired consistency.
- If the soup appears grainy or separated after reheating, you can blend it using an immersion blender or regular blender to restore its creamy texture.
- Keep in mind that the broccoli may become softer and less vibrant in color after freezing and reheating, but the flavor of the soup will still be delicious.
How To Reheat Leftover Macaroni and Cheese Soup With Broccoli
- Reheat the macaroni and cheese soup in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. This method allows you to control the temperature and maintain the soup's creamy consistency.
- If the soup has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out while reheating. Stir well to incorporate the added liquid and achieve the desired consistency.
- For a quick and easy reheating option, microwave individual portions of the soup in microwave-safe bowls. Heat on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through and steaming.
- To prevent the broccoli from becoming overcooked and mushy during reheating, you can remove the florets before reheating the soup and add them back in during the last few minutes of heating. This will help maintain their texture and color.
- If you find that the cheddar cheese has separated or become grainy after reheating, try whisking in a small amount of fresh shredded cheese to restore the smooth, creamy texture of the soup.
- For a crispy twist, top each bowl of reheated soup with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs or croutons and place under the broiler for a minute or two until golden brown. This adds a pleasant crunch and elevates the overall texture of the dish.
- If you have a sous vide machine, you can reheat the soup using this precise temperature control method. Transfer the soup to a sealed bag and place it in the water bath set to 165°F (74°C) for about 30 minutes, or until heated through. This method ensures even heating and maintains the original texture of the soup.
Interesting Trivia About Macaroni and Cheese Soup With Broccoli
A random fact about this macaroni and cheese soup with broccoli recipe is that it combines the comforting flavors of macaroni and cheese with the nutritious addition of broccoli, making it a hearty and balanced meal.
Budget-Friendly: Is This Soup Recipe Economical?
This macaroni and cheese soup with broccoli recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using common ingredients like elbow pasta, onion, carrot, celery, and broccoli, it leverages affordable staples. The use of fat-free milk and chicken broth keeps it budget-friendly while still providing a nutritious meal. The cheeses, sharp cheddar and parmesan, add a rich flavor without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $12-$15 USD.
Is Macaroni and Cheese Soup With Broccoli Healthy?
This macaroni and cheese soup with broccoli recipe has some healthy elements, but it also has room for improvement. On the positive side, it includes nutritious ingredients like broccoli, carrots, celery, and onions, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The recipe also uses fat-free milk and light butter, which helps reduce the overall calorie and fat content.
However, the recipe still relies on a significant amount of cheese, which can be high in saturated fat and sodium. The use of 2% sharp cheddar and parmesan cheese contributes to the dish's overall fat content. Additionally, the recipe uses refined flour as a thickening agent, which has limited nutritional value compared to whole grain alternatives.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Increase the proportion of vegetables in the soup, such as adding more broccoli or incorporating other nutrient-dense options like spinach or kale
- Replace half of the pasta with a whole grain variety to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates
- Reduce the amount of cheese used in the recipe, or opt for lower-fat cheese options like reduced-fat cheddar or part-skim mozzarella
- Use whole wheat flour instead of refined flour as a thickening agent to add more fiber and nutrients
- Incorporate lean protein sources, such as grilled chicken or turkey, to make the soup more balanced and satisfying
By making these adjustments, you can enhance the nutritional value of the macaroni and cheese soup while still maintaining its comforting and delicious qualities. Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying this dish as part of a balanced diet can be part of a healthy lifestyle.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Soup Recipe
This macaroni and cheese soup with broccoli recipe is a delightful twist on classic comfort food. The combination of sharp cheddar and parmesan creates a rich, creamy base, while the addition of broccoli adds a nutritious element. The use of fat-free milk and low sodium chicken broth keeps it lighter without sacrificing flavor. The steps are straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks. However, consider using whole milk for a creamier texture and adding a touch of smoked paprika for depth. Overall, it's a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for a cozy meal.
Enhance Your Macaroni and Cheese Soup with Broccoli Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Macaroni and Cheese Soup with Broccoli Recipe:
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of macaroni and cheese with the nutritious addition of broccoli. The use of fat-free milk and low sodium chicken broth ensures a healthier option without sacrificing taste. The blend of sharp cheddar and parmesan cheese provides a rich, creamy texture that is irresistible. With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
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