Creamy Macaroni Soup

This creamy macaroni soup is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender vegetables, hearty pasta, and a rich, creamy broth. It’s a simple and satisfying dish, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners. With no mention of any meat, this recipe remains light and nourishing, yet still offers a creamy texture that’s both hearty and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or something to serve the family, this creamy macaroni soup is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy macaroni soup is quick to prepare, satisfying, and versatile. The smooth, rich broth combines perfectly with the crunchy vegetables and tender pasta, making each bite comforting and delicious. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty, nutritious dish that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have in your kitchen, making it an ideal meal for busy nights.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon cooking oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup diced carrots

• 1/2 cup diced celery

• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

• 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)

• 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup milk

• 1/2 cup all-purpose cream

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat the cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Sauté the onions: Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

3. Add garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Cook vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until slightly tender.

5. Add vegetables and broth: Stir in the corn kernels and green peas, and then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil.

6. Cook pasta: Once boiling, add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

7. Add milk and cream: Stir in the milk and let it heat through for about 2–3 minutes. Then add the all-purpose cream and mix until well incorporated. Let the soup simmer for another 2–3 minutes, but do not let it boil after adding the cream.

8. Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.

9. Garnish and serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6 servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

• Kcal: Approximately 320 kcal per serving

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian soup.

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a nutrient boost.

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a spicy kick.

• Different Pasta: If you don’t have elbow macaroni, small pasta shapes like shells, penne, or fusilli will work just as well.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to adjust the consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any small pasta like shells, penne, or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the type of pasta.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the milk and cream with coconut milk or any plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and use a dairy-free cream substitute.

How do I make this soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water (about 1 tablespoon cornstarch to 2 tablespoons water) to the soup and simmer until thickened.

Can I freeze this soup?

While the pasta may become a little soft after freezing and reheating, you can freeze the soup for up to 1-2 months in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat gently on the stove.

Can I add protein to this soup?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken breast, turkey, or even some beans like white beans or chickpeas to make it heartier.

What can I serve with creamy macaroni soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a simple side salad for a well-rounded meal.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, using frozen vegetables is a great option to save time. Just add them directly to the soup when called for in the recipe.

How do I store leftovers?

Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes, a chopped jalapeño, or a dash of hot sauce to add a little heat to the soup.

Conclusion

This creamy macaroni soup is a wonderfully comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. The rich, creamy base combined with vegetables and tender pasta makes it a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as is or try out different variations, this soup is a guaranteed family favorite.