Name: Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed; 8 oz elbow macaroni (or your pasta of choice); 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated; 1 cup fontina cheese, grated; 1/2 cup cream (heavy or half-and-half); 1/2 cup milk; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese takes the best of fall flavors and combines them with the classic comfort of mac and cheese. The sweet and earthy roasted butternut squash pairs wonderfully with the creamy, gooey cheese sauce, making each bite rich and satisfying. The addition of sharp cheddar and fontina creates a deliciously smooth and savory experience, while the crispy breadcrumb topping adds a perfect crunch. Not only is this dish comfort food at its finest, but it’s also loaded with nutrients from the squash, offering a healthy twist to a beloved classic.

Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese

Ingredients

2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
8 oz elbow macaroni (or your pasta of choice)
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1 cup fontina cheese, grated
1/2 cup cream (heavy or half-and-half)
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the butternut squash on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the dried thyme and paprika.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same saucepan, add the roasted butternut squash, cream, and milk. Using an immersion blender, blend until smooth (or transfer to a blender and purée). Return the mixture to the saucepan.
Add Cheese: Stir in the grated cheddar and fontina cheese into the squash mixture, continuously stirring until melted and fully incorporated. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Combine: Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese and squash mixture until well combined.
Optional Crunchy Topping: If using breadcrumbs, spread the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs for an extra crunch and drizzle with a little olive oil.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for a family meal or a cozy gathering. The prep time is around 10 minutes, and cooking and roasting time is about 50-60 minutes in total, depending on your oven.

Variations

Different Cheese Blends: You can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or even goat cheese to adjust the flavor to your liking.
Vegan Version: For a plant-based version, use dairy-free cheese and substitute the milk and cream with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream.
Add-Ins: Try adding sautéed mushrooms, or spinach for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. For a crispy topping, reheat in the oven.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, rigatoni, or shells work well too.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

3. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. Just make sure all the other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

4. Can I freeze this Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese?

Yes, you can freeze the dish before baking. Let it cool, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw and bake as usual.

5. Can I substitute butternut squash with another type of squash?

Yes, other winter squashes like acorn or pumpkin can be used as a substitute for butternut squash.

6. How can I make the sauce extra creamy?

For an extra creamy texture, you can increase the amount of cream or use full-fat milk instead of half-and-half.

7. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat or animal by-products other than dairy.

8. Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, or sausage would all make great additions if you want to add protein to the dish.

9. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use plant-based cheeses and substitute the milk and cream with non-dairy options like almond or oat milk.

10. What can I serve with this Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese?

This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese is a perfect combination of creamy, cheesy comfort and the wholesome flavors of autumn. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a holiday celebration, this dish will quickly become a crowd favorite. With its rich flavor, nutritious ingredients, and satisfying texture, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the best of fall. Give it a try and enjoy the cozy, delicious warmth of this autumn-inspired comfort food!