Description
Discover the ultimate comfort food with Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese! This creamy, cheesy dish combines the nutty flavor of roasted butternut squash with gooey cheddar cheese for a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this recipe is easy to prepare and will leave your taste buds craving more.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 cups pureed)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half, scoop out seeds, and place cut side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes until tender.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic powder and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Gradually whisk in milk, lowering heat. Slowly add shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Scoop out the roasted squash, mash it into a puree, then mix it into the cheese sauce along with the cooked macaroni. Stir until fully combined.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with toasted breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg