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–+ servings
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe

Creamy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe for Ultimate Comfort

This Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe combines creamy pumpkin puree with sharp cheddar cheese for a delightful comfort food.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Pasta Shells or substitute with macaroni or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter or olive oil as a dairy-free alternative
  • 1 can (12-ounce) Evaporated Milk can swap for half-and-half for a lighter version
  • 1 can (15-ounce) Pumpkin Puree ensure it's pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling
  • 2 teaspoons Prepared Yellow Mustard Dijon mustard can be used for a stronger flavor
  • ¼ teaspoon Nutmeg freshly grated nutmeg is recommended for aromatic experience
  • Salt to taste
For the Cheesy Goodness
  • 8 ounces Sharp Cheddar Cheese grated, can substitute with mild cheddar or cheese blend
  • ¾ cup Parmesan Cheese grated, can substitute with Pecorino Romano
For the Garnish
  • Finely Chopped Chives for serving, scallions are an alternative

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 1 pound of pasta shells and cook for about 7-8 minutes, or until just shy of al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of cooking water.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until bubbling, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Pour in the 12-ounce can of evaporated milk, stirring as it heats. Simmer for 3-4 minutes. Whisk in the 15-ounce can of pumpkin puree, 2 teaspoons of prepared mustard, and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg until well combined.
  4. Gradually add 8 ounces of grated sharp cheddar cheese and ¾ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  5. Add the drained pasta shells into the skillet and gently fold into the sauce, using reserved cooking water as needed for consistency.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with finely chopped chives.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 5000IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe is perfect for chilly evenings and can be customized with extra ingredients like crispy sage or bacon.

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