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Pumpkin Mac & Cheese

Creamy Pumpkin Mac & Cheese: Fall's Cozy Comfort Food Delight

Creamy Pumpkin Mac & Cheese is a delightful dish that marries comforting mac and cheese with the subtle sweetness of pumpkin.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Elbow Macaroni Any small pasta shape like shells or penne can be used.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tbsp Butter Use olive oil for a lighter touch.
  • ¼ cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour works beautifully.
  • 3 cups Whole Milk Low-fat milk or almond milk can be substituted.
  • 1 cup Unsweetened Canned Pumpkin Purée Ensure it's unsweetened to keep the flavor balanced.
  • 2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese Gouda or mozzarella can be used for a different taste.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used for more flavor.
  • ¼ tsp Ground Nutmeg Using fresh nutmeg enhances its aroma.
For the Topping
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust according to your preference.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Panko can be used for extra crunch.
  • 2 tbsp Melted Butter Olive oil is a great alternative.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  3. Gradually pour in whole milk while whisking continuously for about 4-5 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
  4. Stir in pumpkin puree, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, ground nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir over low heat until cheese melts.
  5. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until coated, then transfer to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top and drizzle with melted butter.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 18gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure macaroni is cooked al dente to avoid mushy pasta after baking. Use unsweetened canned pumpkin purée to maintain savory flavor.

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