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Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
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Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is a comforting and wholesome twist on classic mac and cheese featuring a velvety butternut squash puree blended with sharp cheddar cheese. This recipe delivers a perfect balance of natural sweetness and cheesy richness with a smooth, creamy texture, making it a nourishing and crowd-pleasing comfort food ideal for cozy meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 to 3 pounds), peeled, cubed, and roasted or steamed
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup milk (preferably warmed)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Squash: Peel, cube, and roast the butternut squash until tender and caramelized or steam it to preserve its sweetness. Once cooked, blend it until smooth to create a creamy base for the sauce.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside to maintain a firm, chewy texture that holds the sauce well.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Gently whisk in warmed milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Slowly add shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan (if using), stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Fold in the butternut squash puree, blending well to form a silky, flavorful sauce.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese and squash sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Optional Baking: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese or a toasted breadcrumb topping, and broil for a few minutes until the surface is golden and bubbly.

Notes

  • Use fresh, ripe butternut squash that is firm and heavy for best sweetness and texture.
  • Do not overcook pasta; al dente ensures better sauce adherence and texture.
  • Grate your own cheese to avoid anti-caking agents that affect melting quality.
  • Warm the milk before adding to help create a smoother sauce faster.
  • Blend squash thoroughly for a creamy, lump-free texture.
  • Season gradually since squash can mellow spices, adjusting salt and pepper to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: butternut squash, mac and cheese, creamy, comfort food, healthy mac and cheese, cheesy squash pasta, gluten-free mac and cheese

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