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Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

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  • Author: Maria B. Evans

Description

This Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is a cozy, flavorful twist on the classic dish. The velvety butternut squash sauce is blended with creamy cheese, making it rich yet lighter than traditional mac and cheese. It’s the perfect comfort food for fall and winter!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • For the Pasta:
  • 12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
  • For the Butternut Squash Sauce:
  • 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup milk (or unsweetened plant-based milk for vegan)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or dairy-free cheese)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • Optional Toppings:
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (for crunch)
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (for the breadcrumbs)
  • Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  • 1. Cook the Pasta
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
  • Drain and set aside.
  • 2. Cook the Butternut Squash
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft.
  • Add garlic, butternut squash, salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg. Stir well.
  • Pour in vegetable broth, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the squash is fork-tender.
  • 3. Blend the Sauce
  • Transfer the cooked squash mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender).
  • Add milk and blend until smooth and creamy.
  • Return the sauce to the skillet over low heat.
  • Stir in shredded cheddar and Parmesan (or nutritional yeast). Mix until melted and smooth.
  • Add butter for extra richness, if desired.
  • 4. Combine & Serve
  • Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring until well coated.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • 5. Optional Crispy Topping
  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter.
  • Sprinkle over the mac and cheese and bake for 10 minutes, or broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
  • 6. Serve & Enjoy
  • Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.
  • Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cozy dish!

Notes

  • Make it Vegan: Use dairy-free cheese, plant-based milk, and vegan butter.
  • Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
  • Extra Add-Ins: Add crispy bacon, sautéed spinach, or roasted mushrooms for more flavor!
  • Nutrition (Per Serving)
  • Calories: ~450
  • Protein: ~15g
  • Carbs: ~55g
  • Fat: ~18g
  • Sodium: ~700mg

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~450
  • Sodium: ~700mg
  • Fat: ~18g
  • Protein: ~15g

Find it online: https://quickbiteskitchen.com/creamy-butternut-squash-mac-and-cheese/