Mac & Cheese Soup

 If you like Mac & Cheese, you will love this.

MAC & CHEESE SOUP

(8 servings)

Ingredients:

*8 slices bacon, chopped

*1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped small

*1/4 cup all-purpose flour

*1/2 teaspoon salt

*1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

*4 cups chicken stock 

*1 teaspoon paprika (sometimes I use smoked paprika)

*1/2 cup whole milk

*1/2 cup heavy cream (can use whole milk)

*2 cups cooked macaroni (that's about 1 cup dry)

*1 (8 ounce) package Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes

*1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 

*1 (12 ounce bag) mixed veggies (I use corn, peas, carrots and green bean mixture)

*croutons for topping (optional)

*hot sauce (optional)

Directions:

~In a medium pot, over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy.

~Remove bacon and set aside.

~Remove all but about 3 tablespoons of bacon grease (doesn't need to be exact).

~Whisk in 1/4 cup flour, whisking for 1-2 minutes.

~Stir in 4 cups chicken stock, 1/2 cup whole milk, and 1/2 cup heavy cream.

~Stir in 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, and 1 teaspoon paprika.

~Stir until mixture is slightly thickened.

~Stir in 8 ounces cubed Velvetta cheese and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until cheese is melted.

~Add in 2 cups cooked macaroni, cooked bacon, 1 (12 ounce) bag of mixed veggies.

~Allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes or until veggies are hot.

~Ladle soup into bowls, drizzle soup hot sauce on it (optional) and top with croutons (optional).