Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

This creamy butternut squash mac and cheese combines the comforting flavors of traditional macaroni and cheese with the natural sweetness and nutrition of butternut squash. It’s a delicious twist on a classic dish that is perfect for any occasion.

The recipe is simple and can be made in under an hour, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or gatherings. You can customize it with different cheeses or toppings to suit your taste.

Making the Cheese Sauce

The key to a rich and creamy mac and cheese lies in the sauce.

Once the butternut squash is roasted, it is blended with milk or cream, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a smooth mixture.

This sauce is then combined with the cooked macaroni and a generous amount of cheddar and Parmesan cheese for a truly indulgent experience.

Nutrition and Variations

This dish serves four and packs a nutritious punch with the addition of butternut squash.

Each serving contains a balanced amount of calories, protein, and fats, making it a satisfying option for any meal.

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add-ins like cooked bacon or vegetables to make it your own.

Yield: 4 serves

Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe

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This mac and cheese features a creamy sauce made from roasted butternut squash, cheese, and spices, creating a rich and satisfying dish. The recipe serves 4 and takes about 45 minutes from start to finish.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 35 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup milk or heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the Squash: Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender.
3. Cook the Pasta: While the squash is roasting, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a blender, combine the roasted butternut squash, milk or cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Blend until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine: In a large pot, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
6. Bake: If using breadcrumbs, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
7. Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your creamy butternut squash mac and cheese!

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

4
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 566Total Fat: 31gSaturated Fat: 16gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgCarbohydrates: 46gFiber: 5gSugar: 7gProtein: 26g

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Serving Suggestions

This butternut squash mac and cheese can be garnished with fresh herbs for an added touch of flavor and color.

Serve it alongside a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

For those who enjoy extra cheese, a small dish of grated cheese can be offered on the side for an indulgent finish.