If you crave the ultimate comfort food that hugs your soul, this Ham Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine tender macaroni swimming in a luxuriously creamy blend of sharp cheddar cheese and savory ham, all brought together in a warm, velvety broth. It’s the perfect dish for cozy nights, bustling weeknights, or whenever you want a bowl of pure happiness. Each spoonful delivers gooey cheese, hearty ham, and that familiar pasta bite that reminds you of home, but with all the ease and warmth of a soup. Get ready to dive into a flavorful experience that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Ham Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe lies in its simple, no-fuss ingredients that come together to create a deeply rich and satisfying flavor. Every element plays a crucial role—from the sharp cheddar that gives the soup its creamy punch to the diced ham that adds a delightful smoky savoriness. These ingredients aren’t just easy to find, they are essentials for achieving that velvety texture and comforting taste that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
- 3 cups macaroni noodles (dry): These provide the perfect tender bite and soak up all the cheesy goodness.
- 1/4 cup butter: Adds richness and helps form the flavorful roux base.
- 1/4 cup flour: Thickens the soup to irresistibly creamy perfection.
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard (more to taste): Gives a subtle tang that brightens the flavor beautifully.
- 28 ounces chicken broth (3 and 1/2 cups): The flavorful liquid that forms the savory backbone of the soup.
- 3 cups half and half: Makes the soup luxuriously creamy without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 pound cheddar cheese (about 5 cups, shredded): The star ingredient that melts into the soup, creating that iconic mac and cheese richness.
- 2 cups ham (diced): Adds a smoky, salty punch and hearty bits in every bite—perfect for using leftover ham or a ham steak.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring the whole dish into balance.
How to Make Ham Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Prepare the Macaroni
Start by boiling your macaroni according to the package directions until just al dente. This ensures the noodles remain tender but not mushy after they hit the soup. Once cooked, drain them immediately and toss with a little oil if needed to prevent sticking. This quick step sets the stage for a perfect texture in the final soup that’s neither soggy nor undercooked.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. This little bit of fat is key for creating a smooth base to build layers of flavor, so be patient and let it melt gently without browning, which helps keep your soup silky and lovely colored.
Step 3: Make the Roux with Flour and Mustard
Once the butter is melted, stir in the flour and the dijon mustard using a whisk. This combination forms the roux—a thickening agent that, combined with the mustard’s tang, adds depth to the soup. Stir well to cook out the raw flour taste and ensure everything is blended nicely.
Step 4: Add Chicken Broth and Half and Half
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and half and half, gradually bringing the mixture to a gentle low boil over medium-high heat. Stir constantly to avoid lumps and to achieve that velvety, rich consistency that makes this soup unforgettable. This process usually takes about 5 minutes—patience here truly pays off!
Step 5: Stir in the Cheese
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and immediately add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts fully into the broth, transforming the soup into that classic creamy texture and infusing it with bold, melty flavor.
Step 6: Combine Macaroni and Ham
Add your cooked macaroni and the diced ham to the cheese mixture. Keep the heat low while gently warming everything through, allowing the flavors to mingle and the ham to release its smoky richness throughout the soup.
Step 7: Season to Perfection
Finally, taste your creation and add salt and pepper as desired. This step is all about personal preference—some like a little extra punch, others prefer it subtler—either way, seasoning brings the whole dish together beautifully.
How to Serve Ham Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your bowl by topping the soup with crispy fried onions, a sprinkle of fresh chives, or even a touch of smoked paprika. These simple garnishes add texture, a pop of color, and an extra burst of flavor that make every spoonful exciting.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crisp garden salad featuring a light vinaigrette to balance the creamy richness. Rustic crusty bread or warm garlic knots are also perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit of soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls to turn your meal into an impressive presentation. You can also layer it between baked potato skins or ladle it into mini mason jars for an adorable appetizer at parties. Whatever way you serve it, this Ham Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe is sure to impress!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ham Mac and Cheese Soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. It’s great for quick lunches or a busy weekday dinner, and the flavors actually deepen overnight for an even more comforting meal.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely, transfer it to freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may soften a bit upon thawing, but the flavors will remain delicious.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating. If the soup thickens too much, simply add a splash of chicken broth or half and half to bring back that creamy consistency. Microwave reheating works too, but stirring halfway through is key to even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic for this recipe, you can experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp white cheddar for a twist. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt smoothly for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the ham and substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth. You can also add extra veggies like peas, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers to keep it hearty and flavorful.
Can I use whole milk instead of half and half?
Using whole milk will make the soup less creamy but still tasty. For richness closer to the original, you might add a little cream or reduce the broth slightly to balance the liquids.
How can I add vegetables to this soup?
Frozen peas are an easy and classic addition—just add them along with the macaroni in Step 6 and warm through on low heat. Carrots, corn, or spinach would work wonderfully too and boost the nutrition.
What is the best way to dice leftover ham?
Use a sharp knife to cut the ham into small, even cubes about the size of your macaroni noodles. This ensures every bite has a perfect ham-to-pasta ratio, making the soup deliciously balanced.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like a bowl of Ham Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe to bring warmth and joy into your home. Its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and hearty ham pieces create an unbeatable flavor combination that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for friends or simply treating yourself, this recipe promises comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful. So go ahead, dive in and enjoy some truly soul-soothing deliciousness!
Print
Ham Mac and Cheese Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Ham Mac and Cheese Soup is a comforting and creamy dish that combines tender macaroni pasta, savory ham, and sharp cheddar cheese in a rich broth. This easy one-pot recipe is perfect for cozy dinners and serves up a hearty meal that the entire family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 3 cups macaroni noodles (dry)
Soup Base
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (more to taste)
- 28 ounces chicken broth (3 1/2 cups)
- 3 cups half and half
Add-ins
- 1 pound cheddar cheese (about 5 cups, shredded)
- 2 cups ham (diced, use leftovers or a ham steak)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: In a medium pot, cook the macaroni noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain immediately and toss with a little oil if not adding to soup right away to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Roux: In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once hot, whisk in the flour and Dijon mustard until blended and smooth.
- Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and half and half. Increase heat to medium-high and stir constantly until the mixture reaches a low boil, about 5 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Add Macaroni and Ham: Stir in the cooked macaroni noodles and diced ham. Keep the soup warm on low heat until heated through.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately. For added freshness, serve with a big salad and bread. Optional: stir in frozen peas with macaroni to add vegetables, heating until thawed.
Notes
- Use leftover ham or a ham steak for convenience and flavor.
- If not eating immediately, toss macaroni with a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Dijon mustard adds depth but can be adjusted to your taste preference.
- Frozen peas make a great addition for extra veggies.
- Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
