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Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

creamy butternut squash mac and cheese - featured image
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A comforting, creamy mac and cheese made with roasted butternut squash puree, sharp cheddar, and Gruyère cheese. This easy 30-minute recipe offers a healthier twist on classic comfort food with rich, velvety texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for roasting squash
  • Optional: Breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes until tender.
  2. Puree the roasted squash in a blender until smooth. Set aside.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions, draining 1 minute before fully done. Reserve 1 cup pasta water and drain the rest.
  4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until light blonde.
  5. Slowly pour in milk while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens (3-4 minutes).
  6. Stir in garlic and nutmeg, then fold in the butternut squash puree.
  7. Remove the pan from heat. Gradually stir in cheddar and Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth.
  8. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency.
  9. Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately, topped with breadcrumbs if desired.

Notes

Shred your own cheese to ensure a smooth sauce; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents. Roasting the squash concentrates flavor and removes excess moisture compared to boiling. If the sauce breaks, whisk in a splash of cold milk. For a gluten-free version, use GF pasta and rice flour.

Nutrition

Keywords: butternut squash, mac and cheese, comfort food, vegetarian, easy dinner, healthy pasta, creamy sauce, 30 minute meal

Find it online: https://milacook.com/creamy-butternut-squash-mac-and-cheese-easy-30-minute-recipe/