Pumpkin Mac & Cheese
Indulge in the creamy goodness of Pumpkin Mac & Cheese, a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. This dish features a rich blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, perfectly complemented by the sweetness of pumpkin puree. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this vibrant and flavorful meal is guaranteed to impress everyone at your table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour until smooth to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk followed by pumpkin puree, stirring until thickened.
- Reduce heat and mix in cheddar and Gruyère until melted and gooey.
- Pour cheese sauce over cooked macaroni and stir until evenly coated.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer to a baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs, and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing different cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda. Enhance nutrition by adding vegetables like spinach or crispy bacon bits for extra texture.