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–+ servings
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Indulgent Pumpkin Mac and Cheese for Cozy Autumn Nights

This Pumpkin Mac and Cheese combines creamy pumpkin puree with sharp cheddar for a comforting dish perfect for autumn.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta Gluten-free pasta can be used as an alternative.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Pumpkin Puree Fresh pumpkin can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Can be replaced with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 medium Shallots Yellow onion makes a suitable substitute.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is preferable, but garlic powder can be used.
  • 1 cup Coconut Milk or Cream Regular milk can be used for extra creaminess.
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Aged gouda or fontina can provide delicious variations.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast works for a vegan twist.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Herbs (Sage, Rosemary, Thyme) Dried herbs can be used but are less potent.
  • 1 teaspoon Spices (Smoked Paprika, Cinnamon, Nutmeg) Adjust to personal taste.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for flavor.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • medium saucepan
  • measuring cups
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, about 7-9 minutes, reserving ⅓ cup pasta water before draining.
  2. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add diced shallots, bay leaf, rosemary, and sage. Sauté until shallots are translucent, about 3 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and stir continuously for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
  4. Stir in pumpkin puree and coconut milk. Add thyme, paprika, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for about 2 minutes.
  5. Remove bay leaf and herb sprigs. Turn heat to low and gradually add sharp cheddar and parmesan until melted and smooth.
  6. Fold the drained pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 18gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 4000IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of milk if needed.

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