Southern Mac And Cheese With Cream Of Chicken Soup
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. It's creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. But have you ever tried adding cream of chicken soup to your mac and cheese recipe? If not, you're missing out on a whole new level of flavor!
What is Cream of Chicken Soup?
Cream of chicken soup is a thick and creamy soup made with chicken broth and heavy cream. It's a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes, from casseroles to soups to sauces.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture is smooth and thick.
- Add the cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the saucepan and stir until the macaroni is coated with the cheese sauce.
- Pour the mac and cheese into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to mix it up and make it your own. Here are a few ideas:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty twist.
- Stir in some diced jalapenos or green chilies for a spicy kick.
- Top with breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips for a crunchy texture.
- Swap out the cheddar cheese for a different type of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda.
Conclusion
Southern mac and cheese with cream of chicken soup is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. With its creamy texture and flavorful ingredients, it's sure to become a new favorite in your household. Give it a try and let us know what you think!