Butternut Squash Mac Cheese (Printable Version)
Velvety butternut squash sauce combined with sharp cheddar for a comforting pasta dish.
# What You Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 12 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta shells
→ Butternut Squash Sauce
02 - 1 pound butternut squash, peeled and diced
03 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 2 cups vegetable broth
06 - ½ cup whole or 2% milk
07 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
→ Cheese & Seasoning
08 - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
09 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
10 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
12 - Salt and pepper, to taste
→ Topping (optional)
13 - ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
14 - 1 tablespoon melted butter
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish if using the topping.
02 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
03 - In a medium saucepan, combine butternut squash, onion, garlic, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until squash is tender.
04 - Puree the cooked mixture using an immersion blender or transfer to a blender until smooth.
05 - Return the puree to low heat and stir in milk and butter until fully melted and combined.
06 - Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with smoked paprika, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
07 - Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce thoroughly. Transfer to the prepared baking dish if desired.
08 - For an optional crunchy topping, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the pasta mixture.
09 - Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until the topping is golden and the dish is bubbly. Serve warm.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- This creamy twist adds a velvety richness you don't expect but totally crave.
- The subtle sweetness of butternut squash makes it feel like a comforting hug in mac and cheese form.
02 -
- The sauce is best pureed completely smooth to avoid any grainy texture that can catch you off guard.
- Letting the sauce simmer gently while stirring helps blend the flavors and makes the consistency just right.
03 -
- Using freshly grated cheeses melts better and avoids clumping in your sauce.
- Blending the squash and veggies thoroughly makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and creamy every time.