Description
Pumpkin Mac & Cheese is a heartwarming twist on the classic comfort food, blending creamy cheese with rich pumpkin puree. This delightful dish features a savory-sweet flavor profile, perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings. Topped with crunchy breadcrumbs, it’s both visually appealing and irresistible, ensuring a satisfying experience for everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Cook elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce Base: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat; whisk in flour until bubbly.
- Add Milk and Pumpkin: Gradually stir in milk, followed by pumpkin puree, salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Stir in Cheeses: Once thickened, remove from heat; mix in cheddar and Parmesan until melted.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold cooked macaroni into the cheesy sauce until well-coated.
- Bake (Optional): Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, then bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 440
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg