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**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Vegetables:**
– Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
– Add the diced carrots, celery, and potato (if using). Cook for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. **Cook the Macaroni:**
– Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot, bringing it to a simmer. Once it’s simmering, stir in the macaroni and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. If you prefer a softer texture, you can cook it a bit longer.
3. **Add the Creaminess:**
– Once the pasta is cooked, pour in the whole milk (or heavy cream if you’re using it). Stir well to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
– Add the frozen peas (if using) and continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through.
4. **Season the Soup:**
– Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The cheese will melt into the soup, adding richness and depth to the flavor.
5. **Serve and Garnish:**
– Ladle the creamy macaroni soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve hot. For an extra touch of flavor, you can sprinkle some more grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
**Why This Recipe Works:**
This creamy macaroni soup brings all the comfort of a mac and cheese dish but in the form of a hearty, soul-warming soup. The vegetables add freshness and texture, while the creamy broth envelops the pasta, making every spoonful a satisfying experience. The Parmesan cheese adds an extra layer of flavor that elevates the soup, making it rich and comforting. It’s simple yet incredibly satisfying—perfect for chilly days when you need something filling and flavorful.
**Tips for Success:**
– **Customize the Vegetables:** Feel free to add or swap vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, spinach, or even corn can be a great addition to this soup.
– **Make It Heartier:** If you like your soup even heartier, consider adding cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage. You can also use a whole-grain pasta for added nutrition.
– **Adjust the Creaminess:** For a richer soup, opt for heavy cream instead of milk. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or even low-fat milk.
– **Leftovers:** This soup stores well in the fridge for 2-3 days. Just reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to thin it out.
**Why You’ll Love Creamy Macaroni Soup:**
It’s the ultimate comfort food in a bowl—rich, creamy, and filling. The tender macaroni pasta combined with fresh vegetables and a creamy broth will make it a hit with your family. Whether you’re craving a bowl for lunch or serving it as a cozy dinner, this creamy macaroni soup will keep you warm and satisfied through the colder months.
So, next time you’re in the mood for a comforting soup, give this *Creamy Macaroni Soup* a try. It’s easy to make, wonderfully comforting, and full of flavor—just the kind of dish you’ll want to come home to after a long day!
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