Souplantation Mac And Cheese Recipe

Mac and cheese has always been one of those dishes that makes any meal feel warm and cozy.

When I wanted something creamy and comforting at a buffet, the Souplantation Mac and Cheese was always my go-to. It’s smooth, cheesy, and full of simple flavors that remind me of happy lunch breaks and easy family dinners.

I started making my own version at home after Souplantation closed, and it quickly became a favorite around my table.

This Souplantation Mac and Cheese Recipe brings back the creamy sauce and tender pasta that people loved at the restaurant. It’s easy to prepare with everyday ingredients, yet it still tastes special.

In this post, I’ll show you how to make it step by step, share tips for success, and even give you ideas on how to serve and store it.

What Does Souplantation Mac And Cheese Taste Like?

You will love how this mac and cheese tastes so rich and creamy. The first bite gives you that perfect cheese flavor that melts on your tongue. The sauce is smooth and coats every piece of pasta just right.

You can taste the sharp cheddar cheese with its tangy bite, but it mixes well with the cream cheese base.

The paprika adds a tiny bit of smoky flavor that makes it special. The onion powder gives it depth without being too strong.

Each forkful feels like a warm hug on a cold day. The texture is neither too thick nor too thin. It sticks to the pasta perfectly and never feels watery.

This Souplantation Mac And Cheese Recipe creates that same comfort food feeling you remember from the restaurant.

What Goes in Souplantation Mac And Cheese

• 1 lb elbow macaroni – This classic pasta shape works best for mac and cheese because the hollow tubes catch all that creamy sauce. Shells or penne pasta can work as substitutes, but elbows give you the most authentic result.
• 2 tablespoons butter – Unsalted butter works perfectly, though salted butter is fine too. The butter adds richness and helps blend all the spices together smoothly. Margarine can substitute in a pinch.
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika – This spice adds a mild smoky flavor that makes the dish more interesting. Smoked paprika creates even more depth, or you can skip it completely if you prefer.
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder – Provides a gentle flavor boost without being too strong or overwhelming. Garlic powder works as an easy substitute if that’s what you have on hand.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional) – Since cheese already contains salt, start with less and taste as you go. Sea salt or table salt both work fine here.
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese – This ingredient creates the super creamy base that makes this recipe special. Mascarpone cheese or even thick sour cream can substitute, though the texture might be slightly different.
• 12 ounces half-and-half OR evaporated milk – Both options make the sauce rich and smooth. Whole milk works but needs a flour roux to thicken properly. Heavy cream creates an even richer result.
• 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar provides that tangy, bold cheese flavor. Mix in mozzarella, American cheese, or Monterey Jack for different taste profiles.

Recommended Equipment

1. Large pot for boiling pasta – Needs good capacity
2. Medium saucepan or deep skillet – For cheese sauce
3. Whisk for mixing – Keeps sauce smooth
4. Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring pasta
5. 9×13 baking dish – If baking optional
6. Oven-safe dish or broiler – For finishing touches

How To Make Souplantation Mac And Cheese

Step 1 | Cook the pasta

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a little salt, then cook the elbow macaroni for about 10–12 minutes, or just follow the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2 | Start the sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter on low to medium heat. Once melted, add paprika, onion powder, and salt. Stir gently so the flavors warm up.

Step 3 | Melt in the cream cheese

Add the softened cream cheese to the butter mix. At first, it may look lumpy, but keep stirring and breaking it apart. Slowly, it will melt into a smooth and creamy base.

Step 4 | Add the milk or evaporated milk

Pour in the half-and-half (or evaporated milk). Stir well so it blends smoothly with the cream cheese. Keep the heat low to avoid burning.

Step 5 | Melt in the cheddar cheese

Add the shredded sharp cheddar a little at a time, stirring until it fully melts. The sauce should look silky and thick.

Step 6 | Combine with pasta

Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the sauce. Stir until every piece of pasta is coated with the cheesy goodness.

Step 7 | Bake (optional)

If you want a golden top, grease a 9×13 baking dish with butter. Pour in the mac and cheese, sprinkle extra cheese on top, and bake at 450°F for about 10 minutes – or broil until the top is bubbly and golden.

Chef’s Special Notes

• Shred Your Own Cheese: For the creamiest sauce, buy a block of cheese and shred it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese often has a coating that can make the sauce grainy.
• Keep the Sauce Smooth: Always use low heat when melting the cheese. If the heat is too high, the cheese sauce can separate and become oily.
• Make it Extra Creamy: Right before serving, stir in one more tablespoon of butter. This makes the dish extra shiny and rich.
• Let it Rest: After you mix the pasta and sauce, let it sit for 5 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken up and stick to the pasta better.

Make-Ahead Tips

Prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then mix before serving. This keeps the texture creamy. You can also assemble the dish in the baking pan, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

How to Store: Place cooled mac and cheese in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat: Warm in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Or reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first.

What to Serve with This Mac and Cheese

This creamy Souplantation Mac And Cheese Recipe pairs beautifully with many dishes. Serve it with grilled chicken, baked ham, or barbecue ribs for a complete meal.

Fresh green salads with simple vinaigrette help balance the rich, creamy texture. Steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate.

For family dinners, try serving this with cornbread, coleslaw, or baked beans. The combination creates a comfort food feast that everyone loves.

You can also serve smaller portions as a side dish with grilled fish or roasted turkey.

Souplantation Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs

1. What can I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?

If your sauce is too thick, add more half-and-half or milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach the consistency you want. Heat it gently while stirring to help everything blend smoothly.

If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer on low heat for a few more minutes to thicken naturally. You can also add a little more cream cheese or shredded cheese to help thicken it.

2. Does freezing change the texture?

The pasta may soften slightly after freezing, but the flavor stays good. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

3. Is mac and cheese considered a soup?

No, mac and cheese is a pasta dish with a creamy cheese sauce, not a soup. It may be served alongside soups at restaurants like Souplantation, but it’s closer to a casserole or pasta entrée.

4. Can I add meat to this dish?

Sure, mix in cooked bacon, ham, or sausage for protein. Crumble bacon on top for crunch. Stir ham cubes into the sauce before combining.

Ground beef makes it like a casserole. Souplantation kept it veggie, but home versions allow tweaks. Cook meat separately first to avoid grease issues.

5. How do I make it spicier?

Adding chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce will give it more heat without changing the classic creamy flavor.

Souplantation Mac And Cheese Recipe is a creamy, cheesy classic that brings back memories of one of America’s most loved buffet restaurants.

With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this comforting dish at home. Give it a try and taste the comfort.