Creamy Pumpkin Mac & Cheese

To achieve that perfect, creamy coating for your pasta, it’s essential to combine the cheese sauce and the cooked pasta efficiently. Follow these simple tips to ensure every noodle is enveloped in the luscious sauce:

Warm up your autumn evenings with a comforting bowl of Creamy Pumpkin Mac & Cheese! This delicious twist on the classic dish combines rich, creamy cheese with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin, perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings. Easy to make and full of flavor, it features sharp cheddar and mozzarella, complemented by aromatic spices. Not only is it satisfying, but pumpkin also offers a boost of nutrition, making it a wholesome choice this season. Dive into a bowl of fall right from your kitchen!

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Ingredients

1 lb elbow macaroni

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)

1 cup pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried sage

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Salt and black pepper to taste

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Roux: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a paste (roux). Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until it’s golden and bubbly.

Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly (about 4-5 minutes).

Incorporate Pumpkin and Spices: Add the pumpkin puree, garlic powder, onion powder, dried sage, and smoked paprika to the milk mixture. Stir well to combine, and let simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

Cheese Bliss: Reduce the heat to low, and gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combine with Pasta: Once the cheese is melted and smooth, add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is fully coated.

Bake (Optional): For a bubbly, crusty top, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!

Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, then garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this rich, creamy treat!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | Serves 4-6