butternut mac and cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
butternut mac and cheese recipe
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The Best butternut mac and cheese recipe

I’m obsessed with this butternut mac and cheese recipe – it’s a game-changer for any occasion. I first tried it at a family gathering, and it was love at first bite.

The combination of creamy butternut squash, tender pasta, and a crispy topping is absolute perfection. My kids can’t get enough of it, and I’ve already made it three times this week.

What I love most about this recipe is that it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit any taste. You can add protein with bacon or ham, or keep it vegan by substituting the cheese with a plant-based alternative.

The best part? It’s actually good for you too – the butternut squash adds a boost of vitamins A and C, making it a great option for a comforting meal without the guilt.

As an added bonus, the recipe is ridiculously easy to scale up or down depending on your needs, making it perfect for both small family dinners and large gatherings. I’ve even made it for my book club meetings, and everyone raves about it.

It’s truly a crowd-pleaser.

Butternut Mac and Cheese

Butternut Mac and Cheese

4.8 from 606 votes

A creamy and comforting twist on classic mac and cheese, featuring sweet roasted butternut squash blended into a velvety cheese sauce. This dish combines tender pasta with a rich, golden sauce for a satisfying meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Butternut Squash Puree

1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 4 cups)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Pasta and Cheese Sauce

12 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta shells
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup butternut squash puree
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping (optional)

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet, spreading it in a single layer.
3Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, until the squash is fork-tender and lightly browned on the edges.
4While the squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
5Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
6Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
7Transfer the roasted squash to a blender or food processor and puree until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
8You should have about 1 cup of puree; set it aside.
9In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
10Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
11Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, then continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
12Reduce the heat to low and stir in the butternut squash puree, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
13Whisk until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
14Remove from heat.
15Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce in a large bowl, stirring until every piece of pasta is evenly coated.
16Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
17If using the topping, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl.
18Sprinkle the topping evenly over the mac and cheese.
19Bake at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
20Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
21The mac and cheese will be hot and creamy, with a slightly crunchy top.

🔧Equipment

Baking sheet
Large pot
Medium saucepan
Blender or food processor
Colander
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl
Whisk

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 13g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 48g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and reduce the cheddar to 1 1/2 cups. You can also add cooked bacon or toasted walnuts for extra texture.

Watch Video Of How Butternut Mac and Cheese Works

This butternut mac and cheese recipe has become a staple in our household – we love how easy it is to make and customize to suit our tastes.

Plus, the health benefits of the butternut squash are an added bonus that makes me feel good about serving it up to my family.

Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a comforting meal on a weeknight, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Butternut Mac and Cheese

Q: What type of pasta should I use?

A: You can use any type of pasta you like, but I find that a classic macaroni works best for this recipe. If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, try using shells or elbows instead!

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A: Yes, you can definitely make this recipe in advance – just assemble the ingredients without cooking them, then refrigerate or freeze until you’re ready to bake. This is especially handy if you’re short on time or need to feed a crowd.

Q: Can I substitute the cheese with something else?

A: Of course! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast instead – it has a nutty flavor that works beautifully in this recipe.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: Absolutely! Just omit the bacon or ham if you’re serving vegetarians.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

A: Yes, feel free to get creative with add-ins like cooked chicken or steamed broccoli – they’ll all work beautifully in this recipe.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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