How to Make Souplantation’s Famous Mac and Cheese at Home

Craving Soupiantion’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting mac and cheese but don’t have a location nearby? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. The nostalgia-packed flavour of their mac and cheese sticks with you (just like the cheese sticks to the pasta!). Luckity, you don’t need to head to Souplantaion to enjoy this beloved dish.

This guide shares how to recreate their signature mac and cheese in your kitchen. With this recipe, you’ll capture that rich, velvety, cheesy experience in no time. Whether it’s a side dish for a family meal or the main event for a comfort food binge, you’re about to wow everyone at the table.  

What Makes Souplantation Mac and Cheese Special?

There are plenty of mac and cheese recipes, but Souplantation’s version has earned its fan-favourite status for a reason. It’s the perfect balance of creaminess, cheesiness, and a slight bite from just the right blend of seasonings.  

Their mac and cheese isn’t just a pasta dish; it’s an experience. The recipe combines a velvety cheese sauce with perfectly cooked pasta, delivering that ooey-gooey texture we all love.  

The secret? Quality ingredients, careful preparation, and just the right amount of love. And, of course, we’ll share all the tips to nail it.  

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, grab these essentials. The magic of Souplantation mac and cheese is its simplicity, so make sure to use the freshest and highest-quality ingredients.  

Core Ingredients  

• Elbow Macaroni (2 cups): The classic choice for holding onto that creamy cheese sauce.  
• Cheddar Cheese (2½ cups, shredded): Sharp cheddar adds the bold flavour that defines the dish.  
• Monterey Jack Cheese (1 cup, shredded): For extra creaminess and reliability.  
• Butter (4 tbsp): Helps create a rich and silky roux.  
• All-Purpose Flour (3 tbsp): Used to thicken the cheese sauce.  
• Whole Milk (2 cups): The foundation of the creamy sauce.  
• Heavy Cream (½ cup): Adds that luxurious, rich texture to the dish.  
• Salt (1 tsp): Enhances the flavours.  
• Black Pepper (½ tsp): For a slight hint of heat.  
• Paprika (½ tsp): Adds warmth and a subtle smoky undertone.  

Optional Add-Ons

• Breadcrumbs (½ cup, lightly toasted): Bake your mac and cheese with breadcrumbs for a crisp topping.  
• Parmesan Cheese (2 tbsp): Sprinkle some for extra flavour complexity.  
• Chopped Parsley (for garnish): A fresh, fragrant touch.  

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta  

Start by cooking the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. For the ultimate Souplantation copycat, cook it al dente (just firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.  

2. Make the Cheese Sauce (The Star of the Dish)  

The key to creamy mac and cheese is an indulgent cheese sauce crafted carefully. Here’s how to master it:

1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low-medium heat.  
2. Whisk in the flour. This creates a roux that thickens your sauce. Stir continuously for 2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste.  
3. Gradually pour in the whole Milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to ensure it’s smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring regularly, until it thickens slightly (around 5 minutes).  
4. Add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses to the sauce, a handful at a time. Stir until each addition is melted and incorporated into a velvety sauce.  
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Give it a taste and adjust seasonings if needed.  

3. Combine the Pasta and Sauce  

Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni. Gently stir to coat every piece of pasta in that luscious sauce.  

4. Serve or Add a Deluxe Topping  

You can serve your mac and cheese as is (closest to the original Souplantation version), or you can go the extra mile and bake it with toppings for some added texture.  

For baked mac and cheese with a crispy topping:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).  
2. Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.  
3. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.  
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.  

Pro Tips for Perfect Souplantation Mac and Cheese  

1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese  

Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. For the creamiest sauce, take the time to grate your cheese by hand.  

1. Don’t Skimp on the Milk and Cream  

Whole Milk and cream are essential. Using lower-fat substitutes like skim milk may result in a less creamy texture.  

1. Think Outside the Elbow Macaroni  

Try different pasta shapes like shells, cavatappi, or rotini for a fun twist. They’ll hold onto the sauce just as well!  

1. Customize the Flavor  

Want to elevate the classic recipe? Add a dash of cayenne for heat, or stir in cooked bacon bits for a smoky, savoury boost.  

Why Homemade is Better  

You can’t beat dining at Souplantation or Sweet Tomatoes for their buffet experience. But making their mac and cheese at home offers a few unique perks:

• Control Over Ingredients: Adjust the recipe to meet your preferences (extra cheese, anyone?).  
• Family Fun: Turn this copycat dish into a family cooking event.  
• Cost Effective: Save on dining out while recreating the magic in your kitchen.  

Your Mac and Cheese Adventure Awaits  

There you have it! Souplantation’s mac and cheese, recreated step by step for your tasting delight. Whether you’re reliving old memories or experiencing this dish for the first time, this recipe will hit the spot.  

Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a flawless bowl (or two). And if you make extras, trust us, the leftovers are just as irresistible.  

Happy cooking!