Description
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that beautifully melds creamy cheeses with the natural sweetness of butternut squash. This delightful meal not only serves as a hearty main course but also makes for an impressive side at family gatherings or special occasions. Its rich flavors, enhanced by a blend of cheddar, smoked gouda, and parmesan, will leave everyone craving more. Plus, it’s easy to make and packed with nutrients, making it a healthier twist on the traditional mac and cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2/3 cup cooked, mashed butternut squash
- 1/2 pound mezzi rigatoni or small-shaped pasta
- 1 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt, nutmeg, ground pepper, and tabasco sauce to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta in boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux for about a minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Reduce heat; add cheddar, gouda, and parmesan until melted. Mix in mashed butternut squash.
- Combine drained pasta with the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Season with salt, nutmeg, ground pepper, and tabasco sauce to taste.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 65mg