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Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

A creamy and comforting Pumpkin Mac and Cheese perfect for fall dinners and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz pasta (elbow macaroni or any preferred shape)
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1 cup milk (whole or lower-fat)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
  3. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then stir in garlic powder and onion powder.
  4. Add the pumpkin puree, milk, and cream cheese to the saucepan, stirring until smooth.
  5. Whisk in the shredded cheddar cheese gradually until melted.
  6. Toss the drained pasta into the cheese sauce until well coated.
  7. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 dish.
  8. Sprinkle reserved cheese and breadcrumbs on top.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  10. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a lighter version, reduce cheese and incorporate more vegetables. Feel free to mix up the cheeses for different flavors or add protein for a heartier meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin, mac and cheese, comfort food, fall recipe, vegetarian