Description
This Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting twist on the classic mac and cheese. The roasted butternut squash adds a naturally sweet flavor and rich, velvety texture to the cheese sauce, making this dish both indulgent and nutritious. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to be a family favorite! #MacAndCheese #ButternutSquash #ComfortFood #HealthyMacAndCheese #VegetarianMacAndCheese #CreamyMac #FallFlavors
Ingredients
For the Butternut Squash Sauce:
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled, cubed, and roasted
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2% preferred)
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
-
Roast the Butternut Squash:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss the butternut squash cubes with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized. Let it cool slightly. -
Cook the Pasta:
While the squash roasts, cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside. -
Make the Butternut Squash Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted butternut squash, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. -
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Once hot, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is slightly golden and bubbling.
Slowly pour in the butternut squash mixture, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can stir in the mozzarella cheese at this point. -
Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it to coat in the butternut squash sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is evenly heated through. -
Serve:
Once everything is combined, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- If you don’t have time to roast the butternut squash, you can steam it or microwave it to soften it before blending.
- For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and nutritional yeast.
- Add a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs or bacon bits on top for added texture and flavor.
- You can make the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just reheat it gently on the stove before combining it with the pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food, Vegetarian
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg