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Cheesy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

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A cozy comfort food featuring macaroni smothered in a creamy pumpkin cheese sauce, perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb macaroni noodles or elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, grated (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes or cayenne
  • 1 tablespoon sage leaves, roughly chopped
  • 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
  • 2 cups milk (whole milk, heavy cream, or a combination)
  • 6 oz Gruyere, grated and divided
  • 6 oz Gouda, grated and divided
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon hot honey
  • Black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add your macaroni noodles. Cook until al dente according to package instructions (about 7-8 minutes). Drain the noodles and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the salted butter. Toss in the grated garlic and sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant.
  3. Add the Spices and Sage: Sprinkle in your red pepper flakes and chopped sage leaves. Let them mingle in the buttery goodness for another minute.
  4. Stir in the Pumpkin: Pour in your pumpkin puree and stir while it warms through. Ensure it’s well combined with the buttery garlic mix.
  5. Pour in the Milk: Slowly whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken.
  6. Cheesy Goodness: Gradually stir in the Gruyere, Gouda, and Parmesan, keeping some aside for topping later. Let it melt slowly for a creamy sauce.
  7. Combine Everything: Once your cheese sauce is velvety, add the cooked macaroni. Stir it all together until the pasta is well-coated.
  8. Season and Finish: Taste and add kosher salt and black pepper as desired. Drizzle in the hot honey and stir once more.
  9. Bake It: For a crispy topping, transfer to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved cheeses on top and bake at 350°F (176°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Notes

Serve in individual ramekins or bowls, and top with extra sage or hot honey as desired. Pairs well with a green salad or crusty bread.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, pumpkin, comfort food, cheesy pasta, fall recipes

Find it online: https://flavorsbyclara.com/creamy-pumpkin-mac-and-cheese-fall-comfort-classic/