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Pumpkin Mac & Cheese

Pumpkin mac and cheese combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the subtle sweetness and velvety texture of pumpkin. The dish is prepared by cooking pasta and making a savory pumpkin cheese sauce, then baking it until bubbly and golden, resulting in a comforting and visually appealing casserole with a rich, smooth finish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz pasta (penne or shells)
  • 2 cups pumpkin purée canned or homemade
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 0.5 cup Gruyère cheese shredded
  • 1 cup cream or half-and-half
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumb Panko preferred
  • 1 small diced onion about 1 cup diced
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg fresh grated if possible
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons flour

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet or large saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and cook the pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the pumpkin purée and a pinch of nutmeg. Let it simmer gently until warmed through and combined, about 3 minutes, filling the kitchen with a cozy aroma.
  4. In a separate pan, make a roux by melting the remaining butter, then whisking in flour until smooth and slightly bubbly. Gradually pour in the cream, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes silky.
  5. Add the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until melted and creamy. Pour this cheese sauce into the skillet with the onion and pumpkin, stirring well to combine.
  6. Fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring each piece is coated with the cheesy pumpkin sauce.
  7. Transfer everything into a baking dish and sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to set slightly and flavors to meld.
  10. Scoop into bowls, serve hot, and enjoy the comforting blend of cheesy pumpkin goodness with a crispy topping.