Description
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is the ultimate fall comfort food that brings warmth to chilly evenings. This creamy dish combines the rich essence of pumpkin with gooey melted cheddar, creating a delightful meal that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up this indulgent recipe in no time, making it an ideal choice for weeknight meals or potluck events.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup bread crumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in flour to form a roux.
- Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in pumpkin puree, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Combine cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until well coated.
- For a crispy topping, transfer to a greased baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and 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 (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 65mg