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Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Pumpkin mac and cheese combines creamy, cheesy sauce with a touch of roasted pumpkin for a seasonal twist. The dish features al dente elbow macaroni coated in a rich, velvety cheese sauce infused with pumpkin and a hint of spice, topped with a golden, bubbly crust. It’s a cozy, hearty comfort food perfect for fall evenings or casual gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 250 g elbow macaroni sturdy enough to hold the sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter for the roux
  • 2 tbsp flour to thicken the cheese sauce
  • 250 ml milk whole milk recommended
  • 200 g shredded sharp cheddar cheese melts smoothly into the sauce
  • 100 g grated Parmesan cheese adds salty, nutty flavor
  • 1 cup pureed roasted pumpkin use roasted or canned pumpkin
  • salt to taste seasoning for the sauce
  • pepper to taste seasoning for the sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for a gentle heat

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish
  • Ladle or slotted spoon

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook until just al dente, about 8 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat until it starts to foam and smell fragrant.
  3. Add flour to the melted butter and whisk constantly for about 1 minute until the mixture turns slightly golden and smells nutty.
  4. Gradually pour in milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until thickened and smooth.
  5. Stir in shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, and pumpkin puree. Keep stirring until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
  7. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, folding gently to coat every piece thoroughly.
  8. Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish and sprinkle extra cheese on top for a golden crust.
  9. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes until bubbling and golden around the edges.
  10. Remove from oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy comfort with a hint of seasonal sweetness.

Notes

For an extra crispy topping, sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs over the dish before baking. Adjust cayenne to taste for more heat. Using roasted pumpkin enhances flavor, but canned pumpkin works perfectly too.