Main Dishes

Pumpkin Macaroni and Cheese

Last Updated on April 15, 2022 by Karen

Creamy pumpkin macaroni and cheese is quick, easy, and satisfying – the ultimate comfort food for fall!

When the days get shorter and the temperatures start to drop, my thoughts turn to cozy flannel pajamas, snuggling down under a blanket with a good TV show or movie, and hearty foods like rib-sticking stews and luscious, creamy casserole dishes.  Every year around this time, I get the urge to experiment with canned pumpkin and working it into both savory and sweet dishes.

I’m a firm believer that everyone needs a good mac ‘n cheese recipe up their sleeve.  Quick, easy, and satisfying.  What could be better?  The hint of nutmeg gives this pumpkin macaroni and cheese a seasonal flair.  And the fact that this dish is loaded with pumpkin puree- which lends a creamy texture without the addition of cream- makes you feel slightly better about it as you spoon a second, generous helping onto your plate.

Pumpkin Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy pumpkin macaroni and cheese is quick, easy, and satisfying - the ultimate comfort food for fall!
Servings 6
Author Karen @ The Tasty Bite

Ingredients

  • 1 lb macaroni or other small cut pasta like shells and bow ties
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 cups milk
  • 10 oz cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • ¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Bring water to boil in a large pot and cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  • Preheat oven to 350F.
  • In an oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan, melt butter over low heat and add flour. Stir together and cook for about one minute.
  • Add milk, whisking constantly, until no visible clumps remain and the sauce is thickened. Add cheese (reserving half a cup) and stir until it is melted into the sauce. Stir in pumpkin puree, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the cooked pasta and mix well. Sprinkle reserved cheese evenly on top. Bake for 30-40 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the top is slightly brown. Serve warm.

 

2 Comments

  1. Looks so yummy! Adding it to my list of recipes to try :)

  2. Pingback: 12 Delicious Pumpkin Recipes for the Pumpkin Lover - The Tasty Bite

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*

Recipe Rating




This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.