Creamy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese: A Cozy Twist on Comfort Food

Creamy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on classic comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners.

Print Pin

Course: Main Dishes

Cuisine: American

Keyword: comfort food, cozy dinner, Creamy Pasta, fall recipes, Pumpkin Mac and Cheese, pumpkin pasta

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 25

Total Time: 35

Servings: bowls

Calories: 400kcal

Equipment

Large pot
colander
large skillet
separate saucepan
Whisk

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz elbow macaroni A classic choice that holds cheesy sauce exceptionally well.

For the Cheese Sauce

1 cup pumpkin puree Adds a luscious creaminess and subtle sweetness to your Pumpkin Mac and Cheese.
1 cup cheddar cheese Provides a sharp, rich flavor that contrasts perfectly with the pumpkin.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Enhances the overall depth of flavor and adds a lovely salty touch.
2 tablespoon butter Keeps your sauce rich and decadent, creating that delightful creamy texture.
2 tablespoon flour Helps thicken the sauce into a smooth and velvety consistency.
1 cup milk Brings everything together, creating a creamy base for your cheese sauce.

For the Seasoning

1 teaspoon salt Essential to enhance the flavors in your dish.
½ teaspoon black pepper Adds a little kick to balance the richness of the sauce.
1 teaspoon garlic powder Infuses a warm, savory flavor that complements the cheese perfectly.
1 teaspoon onion powder Deepens the savory profile and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
½ teaspoon cinnamon A warm spice that makes this dish feel like a comforting hug on a chilly evening.
¼ teaspoon nutmeg Elevates the dish with its aromatic sweetness, making it irresistible!

For Garnish

fresh sage optional - A fragrant herb that adds a touch of elegance to your Pumpkin Mac and Cheese.

Instructions

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set it aside while you prepare the creamy sauce.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, return the drained pasta to the skillet and sprinkle in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir everything well for about 2-3 minutes until the pasta is evenly coated with the warm spices and aromatic flavors.
In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a smooth, golden roux.
Slowly whisk in 1 cup of milk into the roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking for about 3-4 minutes, until the mixture thickens and bubbles. Once thickened, stir in the pumpkin puree, followed by the cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is melted and smooth.
Pour the velvety cheese sauce over the seasoned pasta in the skillet. Gently stir to ensure that every piece of macaroni is evenly coated in the luscious sauce. If you’d like, fold in some fresh sage for an extra touch of flavor and freshness.
Transfer the comforting Pumpkin Mac and Cheese into warm bowls. For an added touch, sprinkle extra cheese on top or garnish with fresh sage leaves. Serve your creation hot and enjoy the delightful flavors and creamy textures.

Notes

For best results, taste as you go and adjust seasoning to suit your preferences. Fresh sage adds a lovely aromatic flavor and finishing touch to the dish.

Nutrition