Emily Johnson
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food, and incorporating cream of mushroom soup into the recipe adds a rich, savory twist that elevates the dish. This creamy and cheesy pasta combines the familiar flavors of sharp cheddar and creamy sauce with the earthy, umami notes of mushrooms, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Using cream of mushroom soup as a base not only simplifies the cooking process but also ensures a velvety texture and deep flavor profile. Whether you're preparing it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this version of mac and cheese is sure to impress with its comforting taste and easy preparation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Main Ingredients | Macaroni, cream of mushroom soup, cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, etc.), milk, butter, breadcrumbs (optional) |
| Cooking Time | Approximately 30-40 minutes |
| Servings | 4-6 servings |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
| Key Steps | Boil macaroni, prepare cheese sauce with cream of mushroom soup, bake or serve immediately |
| Optional Add-Ins | Bacon, mushrooms, garlic, onions, spices (paprika, black pepper) |
| Cheese Types | Cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, Parmesan, or a blend |
| Cream of Mushroom Role | Adds creamy texture and savory flavor to the sauce |
| Baking Option | Top with breadcrumbs and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes |
| Storage | Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 3 days |
| Reheating | Reheat in oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess |
| Dietary Notes | Not vegetarian (due to cream of mushroom soup), can be made gluten-free with GF pasta |
| Popular Variations | Stovetop mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, slow cooker version |
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What You'll Learn
- Gather Ingredients: Macaroni, cream of mushroom soup, cheese, milk, butter, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs
- Cook Pasta: Boil macaroni until al dente, drain, and set aside for mixing
- Prepare Sauce: Mix soup, milk, cheese, and butter until smooth and creamy
- Combine & Bake: Toss pasta with sauce, transfer to dish, top with breadcrumbs, bake until golden
- Serve & Enjoy: Let cool slightly, garnish with parsley, and serve warm for a creamy delight
Gather Ingredients: Macaroni, cream of mushroom soup, cheese, milk, butter, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs
To begin crafting your creamy and flavorful mac and cheese with a twist of cream of mushroom, the first step is to gather all the necessary ingredients. Start by selecting a high-quality macaroni, preferably elbow macaroni, as its shape holds the sauce well. Ensure you have a can of cream of mushroom soup, which will serve as the base for your sauce, adding a rich, earthy flavor. For the cheese, opt for a combination of sharp cheddar for its bold taste and mozzarella or Monterey Jack for their melting qualities. Having both types of cheese will give your dish a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Next, assemble the dairy components that will contribute to the creaminess of your mac and cheese. You’ll need whole milk to thin out the sauce and add a smooth consistency. Don’t forget to grab unsalted butter, as it will be used to create a roux, which helps thicken the sauce and adds a subtle richness. These ingredients are essential for achieving that velvety texture everyone loves in a good mac and cheese.
Seasonings and toppings are equally important to elevate your dish. Gather salt and pepper to taste, as they will enhance the overall flavor profile. While the cream of mushroom soup and cheese provide a good amount of seasoning, a pinch of salt and pepper will round out the dish. Additionally, breadcrumbs are a must for adding a crispy, golden topping. You can use plain breadcrumbs or seasoned varieties, depending on your preference, to give your mac and cheese a delightful contrast in texture.
Once you have all the ingredients laid out, take a moment to measure them out to ensure you have the correct quantities. Typically, you’ll need about 8 ounces of macaroni, one 10.5-ounce can of cream of mushroom soup, 2 cups of shredded cheese, 1 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of butter, and a handful of breadcrumbs. Having everything measured and ready will make the cooking process seamless and stress-free.
Finally, double-check your pantry and fridge to ensure you haven’t missed anything. It’s frustrating to start cooking only to realize you’re missing a key ingredient. With macaroni, cream of mushroom soup, cheese, milk, butter, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs all gathered and prepared, you’re now fully equipped to move on to the next step of cooking this comforting and delicious mac and cheese.
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Cook Pasta: Boil macaroni until al dente, drain, and set aside for mixing
To begin the process of making mac and cheese with cream of mushroom, the first crucial step is to cook the pasta to perfection. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The general rule of thumb is to use about 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts of water, which helps season the pasta as it cooks. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the macaroni and stir gently to prevent the pasta from sticking together. The type of macaroni you choose—whether it’s elbow macaroni, cavatappi, or another shape—should be suitable for holding the creamy sauce. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, but aim to cook the pasta until it is *al dente*. This means the pasta should be cooked through but still have a slight bite to it, ensuring it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce later.
Monitoring the pasta as it cooks is essential to achieve the ideal texture. Stir the macaroni occasionally to keep it from clumping and sticking to the bottom of the pot. Taste a piece of pasta a minute or two before the recommended cooking time is up to check its doneness. When the pasta is al dente, promptly remove the pot from the heat to prevent overcooking. Overcooked pasta can become too soft and lose its structure when combined with the creamy mushroom sauce. Once the pasta is ready, carefully pour it into a colander placed in the sink to drain the water. Shake the colander gently to remove excess water, but avoid rinsing the pasta, as the starch on its surface helps the sauce adhere better.
After draining, transfer the cooked macaroni to a large bowl or baking dish that you’ll use for mixing with the sauce. If you’re not ready to mix the pasta with the sauce immediately, you can toss it with a small amount of butter or olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. However, it’s best to proceed with the recipe as soon as possible to maintain the pasta’s optimal texture. The goal is to keep the macaroni warm and ready for the next step, where it will be combined with the creamy mushroom sauce. Properly cooked and prepared pasta forms the foundation of a delicious mac and cheese dish.
Setting the pasta aside for mixing is a simple yet important step that ensures the macaroni is ready to absorb the flavors of the cream of mushroom sauce. Make sure the bowl or dish you use is large enough to accommodate both the pasta and the sauce, allowing for easy stirring. If you’re using a baking dish and plan to bake the mac and cheese later, this step streamlines the process. Keep the pasta in a warm area, away from drafts, to maintain its temperature. Cold pasta can cause the sauce to cool down too quickly, affecting the overall consistency of the dish. By following these steps to cook, drain, and set aside the macaroni, you’re well on your way to creating a creamy, flavorful mac and cheese with cream of mushroom.
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Prepare Sauce: Mix soup, milk, cheese, and butter until smooth and creamy
To prepare the sauce for your mac and cheese with cream of mushroom, start by gathering your ingredients: a can of cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheese (cheddar works well), and butter. The key to a smooth and creamy sauce lies in the careful combination and mixing of these components. Begin by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. This step is crucial as it forms the base of your sauce and helps to blend the other ingredients seamlessly. Once the butter is fully melted and starts to bubble slightly, it’s ready for the next step.
Next, add the cream of mushroom soup to the melted butter, stirring continuously to ensure they combine evenly. The soup adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the cheese perfectly. Gradually pour in the milk while stirring, as this will help to thin the sauce to the desired consistency. The milk also adds a creamy texture that balances the thickness of the soup. Keep the heat at medium to avoid scorching the sauce, and continue stirring until the mixture is well incorporated and begins to warm through.
Now, it’s time to add the shredded cheese. Sprinkle the cheese into the saucepan a handful at a time, stirring constantly to allow it to melt completely before adding more. This gradual process ensures that the cheese blends smoothly into the sauce without clumping. The combination of the melted cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and butter will create a luscious, velvety sauce that coats the macaroni perfectly. Patience is key here, as rushing this step can lead to a grainy or uneven texture.
As you stir, the sauce will begin to thicken and become more cohesive. Continue mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy, with no lumps or streaks of unmelted cheese remaining. The goal is to achieve a uniform consistency that will cling to the pasta and enhance the overall dish. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash more milk to adjust the texture. Conversely, if it’s too thin, allow it to simmer gently for a few minutes to reduce slightly, but be cautious not to overcook it.
Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, remove it from the heat to prevent it from becoming too thick or separating. This sauce is now ready to be combined with your cooked macaroni. The creamy, cheesy, and mushroom-infused sauce will elevate your mac and cheese, giving it a rich and comforting flavor profile. Pour the sauce over the drained pasta, stirring gently to coat every noodle, and prepare to enjoy a delicious, homemade dish that’s sure to satisfy.
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Combine & Bake: Toss pasta with sauce, transfer to dish, top with breadcrumbs, bake until golden
Once you’ve cooked your pasta and prepared the creamy mushroom sauce, it’s time to combine everything for the final bake. Start by tossing the cooked pasta with the sauce in a large mixing bowl. Ensure every noodle is evenly coated with the rich, creamy mixture of cheese and cream of mushroom soup. This step is crucial for achieving a cohesive and flavorful mac and cheese. Gently fold the pasta to avoid breaking it, but make sure there are no dry spots left uncovered by the sauce.
After thoroughly combining the pasta and sauce, transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Choose a dish that’s large enough to hold the mac and cheese comfortably, allowing some room for bubbling during baking. Spread the pasta evenly in the dish, pressing it down slightly to create a compact layer. This helps the dish bake uniformly and ensures a consistent texture throughout.
Next, prepare the breadcrumb topping. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter or olive oil, a pinch of salt, and optional spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. This layer will add a delightful crunch and a golden finish to your dish. Be generous with the breadcrumbs, as they’ll create a satisfying contrast to the creamy pasta beneath.
Place the baking dish in a preheated oven, typically at 350°F (175°C), and bake until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. This usually takes about 20–25 minutes, but keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking. The breadcrumbs should turn a deep golden color, and the sauce should be visibly bubbling around the edges. This baking process not only enhances the flavors but also gives the mac and cheese a comforting, casserole-like texture.
Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The resting time allows the sauce to thicken slightly and ensures the mac and cheese holds its shape when served. The final result is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish with a savory mushroom flavor and a crispy, buttery breadcrumb topping. This *Combine & Bake* method transforms simple ingredients into a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for any occasion.
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Serve & Enjoy: Let cool slightly, garnish with parsley, and serve warm for a creamy delight
Once your mac and cheese with cream of mushroom is cooked to perfection, it’s time to focus on the final steps to ensure it’s served just right. After removing the dish from the heat, let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes. This brief resting period allows the sauce to thicken a bit more and prevents the mac and cheese from being too hot to handle or eat. The cooling process also helps the flavors meld together, enhancing the creamy, savory profile of the dish. Avoid letting it sit too long, though, as mac and cheese is best enjoyed warm and gooey.
While the mac and cheese cools slightly, prepare your garnish. Fresh parsley is an excellent choice to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish. Finely chop a handful of parsley leaves, ensuring they are small enough to sprinkle evenly over the top. If parsley isn’t your preference, consider other herbs like chives or thyme, which can complement the earthy flavor of the cream of mushroom. The garnish not only elevates the presentation but also adds a subtle contrast to the richness of the dish.
When ready to serve, scoop the mac and cheese into bowls or plates, ensuring each portion is generously coated in the creamy sauce. Sprinkle the chopped parsley evenly over the top, allowing it to cling to the cheesy surface. The warmth of the dish will slightly wilt the parsley, releasing its aroma and blending it seamlessly with the other flavors. For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of paprika to enhance the visual appeal and add a mild kick.
Serving the mac and cheese warm is key to enjoying its creamy texture and rich flavor. The combination of tender pasta, velvety cheese sauce, and savory cream of mushroom should be comforting and indulgent. Encourage your guests to dig in while it’s still warm, as the dish loses some of its appeal when it cools completely. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a balanced meal, or serve it as a standalone comfort food that’s sure to satisfy.
Finally, take a moment to savor the creamy delight you’ve created. The addition of cream of mushroom adds a unique depth to the classic mac and cheese, making it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy night in, this mac and cheese is sure to impress. Enjoy the warmth, creaminess, and hearty flavors of this elevated comfort food, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a requested favorite!
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, cream of mushroom soup can be used as a base to make a creamy and flavorful mac and cheese. It adds richness and a savory mushroom taste to the dish.
Typically, one 10.5-ounce can of cream of mushroom soup is sufficient for a standard batch of mac and cheese (about 1 pound of pasta). Adjust based on desired creaminess.
Yes, adding milk (about 1 cup) helps thin the cream of mushroom soup and creates a smoother, creamier sauce for the mac and cheese.
Absolutely! Adding shredded cheese (like cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan) enhances the flavor and texture, making it a true mac and cheese dish.
Baking is optional. You can serve it stovetop for a quick meal, or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly top.
