Butternut squash mac and cheese is a creamy, dreamy dish that combines the richness of cheese with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash. Imagine diving into a bowl of this luscious pasta, where every bite offers a comforting hug in food form. Cheesy eggplant rollatini Cheesy tortellini pasta salad The aroma wafts through your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table, eagerly awaiting the first forkful. Cheesy cauliflower patties.
There’s something magical about sharing this dish with loved ones. I remember one chilly autumn evening when I served it to my friends at a cozy gathering. Their delighted reactions, with eyes widening and smiles spreading, made my heart swell with joy. Tomato soup with dumplings Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe promises to impress anyone fortunate enough to taste it.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Butternut squash mac and cheese is effortless to prepare while delivering a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Its vibrant orange hue brightens up any dinner table and brings a sense of warmth
- This dish is versatile enough to serve as a main course, side dish, or even for meal prep throughout the week
I remember the first time I surprised my family with butternut squash mac and cheese; their delighted faces were worth every minute spent in the kitchen.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Butternut Squash: Opt for firm, unblemished squash; roasting sweetens its natural flavor beautifully.
- Pasta: Choose any shape you love; elbow macaroni works great for classic comfort.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives depth; use freshly grated for maximum meltiness.
- Milk: Whole milk creates that creamy texture; feel free to substitute with plant-based options if desired.
- Butter: Unsalted butter enhances flavors without adding extra salt.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle adds an aromatic touch; fresh garlic works too if you prefer.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors; season generously but taste as you go!
- Panko Breadcrumbs: For topping, these create a delightful crunch that contrasts the creamy base.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prep Your Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully slice your butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds using a spoon. Place it cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Roast Until Tender: Roast in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes until it’s fork-tender and caramelized at the edges. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen!
Cook Your Pasta: While the squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
Create Your Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in flour and cook for about two minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and heated through.
Add Cheese & Seasonings: Remove from heat and mix in grated cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until melted and creamy—this is where magic happens!
Combine Everything Together: Scoop out the roasted squash into your cheese sauce mixture, mash slightly (leave some chunks), then fold in your cooked pasta gently until well combined.
Top & Bake: Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly on top for that irresistible crunch! Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
And voilà! An enchanting butternut squash mac and cheese that’s sure to become your new favorite comfort food! For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes recipe.
You Must Know
- Butternut squash mac and cheese is a creamy, dreamy dish that pleases both kids and adults
- Its unique flavor and vibrant color elevate any mealtime
- Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting the butternut squash while you cook the pasta. This sequence ensures everything blends perfectly, creating a rich and creamy sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheeses or add spices like smoked paprika for depth. Toss in crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect butternut squash mac and cheese, cut your squash into even pieces for uniform cooking
- Taste as you mix to balance flavors perfectly
- Consider using a blend of cheeses for a richer texture and taste
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely had a chance to enjoy my own bowl!
FAQ
Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw it beforehand for even cooking.
What cheese works best for butternut squash mac and cheese?
A blend of sharp cheddar and creamy Gruyère creates a delightful flavor combo.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely! The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it appealing to kids.
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Butternut squash mac and cheese is a delightful comfort food that combines creamy cheese with the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash. This dish not only pleases the palate but also adds a vibrant pop of color to your table, making it perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, every bite feels like a warm embrace, making it a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 8 oz pasta (elbow macaroni or your favorite shape)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 30-40 minutes until tender.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
- Remove from heat, then add grated cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until melted.
- Mash the roasted squash into the cheese sauce mixture (leave some chunks), then fold in cooked pasta.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
