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Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe

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4.4 from 65 reviews

  • Author: Alice
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is a comforting American main course that features tender macaroni pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce made from roasted and pureed butternut squash combined with melted cheddar and Parmesan cheese. This dish balances a naturally sweet, smooth squash puree with cheesy, savory flavors, creating a healthy and delicious twist on classic mac and cheese.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 ounces macaroni pasta

Butternut Squash Mixture

  • 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook Macaroni: Cook the macaroni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare Butternut Squash: Boil or roast the peeled and cubed butternut squash until tenderness is achieved, then blend the cooked squash until smooth to create a natural puree base for the sauce.
  3. Make Roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
  4. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir and cook until the mixture slightly thickens, creating the creamy sauce base.
  5. Combine Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the butternut squash puree and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  6. Season Sauce: Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the sauce, stirring well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
  7. Mix Pasta and Sauce: Combine the cooked macaroni with the butternut squash cheese sauce, ensuring the pasta is entirely coated for maximum flavor.
  8. Serve: Optionally sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. Serve the dish warm as a hearty and comforting meal.

Notes

  • Roasting the butternut squash instead of boiling enhances the flavor, adding deeper caramelized notes to the sauce.
  • You can adjust the cheese types or quantities for different flavor profiles or dietary preferences.
  • For a thicker sauce, reduce the milk slightly or add a little extra flour to the roux.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://myhomemadecooking.com/creamy-butternut-squash-mac-and-cheese-recipe/