Get ready for the ultimate cozy comfort food: this Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe is creamy, vibrant, and family-friendly, with a luscious cheese sauce that sneaks in silky butternut squash for added goodness. Every bite is cheesy and crave-worthy, but with a lightened-up twist that makes you feel just a little bit extra good about going in for seconds. It’s irresistible for chilly nights, simple enough for busy weeknights, and sure to become a staple you’ll crave all year long.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe shines because each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to add flavor, creamy texture, and that signature golden color. Nothing is fancy, and you might already have most of these on hand, but together, they create absolute magic.
- Elbow Macaroni (12 oz): The classic shape holds plenty of creamy sauce in every bite for that nostalgic mac and cheese feel.
- Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons): Helps create a velvety roux as the base of the sauce, contributing richness and depth.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce with a smooth result—no graininess, just velvet.
- Whole Milk (2 cups): Gives body and luscious creaminess; whole milk makes the sauce luxuriously silky.
- Butternut Squash Puree (1 1/2 cups): Adds natural sweetness, vibrant color, and a hidden veggie boost that melts right in.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): A pantry staple for easy depth of flavor without any chopping required.
- Onion Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the savory notes, building out that classic mac and cheese taste.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning every element; taste and adjust as you go.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and balance.
- Ground Nutmeg (1/8 teaspoon): The secret spice! Just a hint makes the butternut and cheese sing together.
- Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 1/2 cups): For a classic melt and that tangy, cheesy flavor everyone loves.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Adds that extra layer of savory, salty umami to round out the dish.
How to Make Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente, following the package directions. You want the noodles to be tender but still retain a little bite, since they’ll soak up a bit more flavor from the sauce later. Drain well and set aside, ready for their cheese sauce bath.
Step 2: Start the Roux
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it’s silky and bubbly. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk it gently—this is your roux! Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until it’s slightly golden and smells invitingly toasty, being careful not to let it brown too much. This step creates a smooth, lump-free base for your creamy sauce.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Slowly pour in the whole milk, whisking constantly so the roux incorporates seamlessly and no lumps form. Keep stirring as the sauce gently heats, thickening into a satiny mixture—this takes about five minutes and is worth every whisk. You’ll know it’s ready when it softly coats the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Add Butternut Squash and Seasonings
Now comes the heart of the Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe! Whisk in the butternut squash puree, then add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and a touch of nutmeg. This is where the sauce turns a gorgeous golden hue and becomes rich with cozy flavor—don’t skip the nutmeg, it’s the secret to warmth and depth.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheeses
Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle in the shredded sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan. Stir patiently until the cheeses melt completely, forming a luscious, smooth sauce. If you like an ultra-silky texture, you can even blend the sauce quickly before adding the cheese. Taste for seasoning—sometimes a pinch of extra salt or pepper brings it all together.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Fold the cooked pasta straight into the warm, cheesy butternut sauce, stirring to coat every noodle in gold. Let everything heat together for a minute or two, just until the whole mixture is creamy and steaming hot, then serve right away, preferably with extra cheese or your favorite garnish.
How to Serve Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
This dish is a perfect blank canvas for a little flourish on top. Try a sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar, a shower of freshly grated Parmesan, or a handful of chopped fresh parsley or chives. If you’re feeling fancy, a crumble of crispy bacon or toasted breadcrumbs adds fabulous texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
Since the Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe is indulgent and rich, it pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides. A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette balances the flavors, while roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, or garlicky green beans are all delicious partners that add color and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get playful! Serve individual portions in ramekins for a dinner party vibe, or turn it into a snackable appetizer by baking spoonfuls in mini muffin tins as mac and cheese bites. For a hearty twist, mix in cooked chicken, or top with roasted veggies or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe sealed tight in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and prevent it from picking up other flavors from the fridge. Let it cool first so excess moisture doesn’t build up.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Portion out the cooled mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. It keeps well for up to two months; just remember that the sauce may thicken slightly after thawing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of milk to the Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe and warm gently in a saucepan or microwave, stirring occasionally, until creamy and hot. The milk helps revive its silky texture and prevents it from drying out or becoming too thick. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cut or frozen butternut squash?
Absolutely! Pre-cut or frozen butternut squash makes this recipe so much easier. Just steam, roast, or microwave until tender, then puree. The flavor remains sweet and creamy, making it perfect for this dish.
Is this mac and cheese gluten-free?
To make the Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe gluten-free, simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour for the roux. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use a different type Main Course
You sure can! While sharp cheddar and Parmesan are classic, feel free to experiment with Gouda, Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a smoky cheese. Just aim for good melting quality and a flavor profile you love.
How do I make the sauce even creamier?
If you crave an ultra-smooth texture, blend the sauce with an immersion blender or in a regular blender before adding the cheese. This step ensures the sauce is perfectly silky, especially if your squash puree is a little chunky.
Can I add protein or extra vegetables?
Yes! Stir in cooked diced chicken, crumbled bacon, or sautéed mushrooms for protein, or add cooked spinach, peas, or roasted broccoli to pack in more veggies. The Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe is easy to customize for your family’s tastes.
Final Thoughts
Next time you crave something cozy, creamy, and a little bit wholesome, give this Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe a try. It’s a warm hug in a bowl with all the cheesy goodness and a nutritional twist you’ll love sharing with family and friends. Enjoy every comforting, colorful bite!
Print
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy and flavorful, this Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is a healthier twist on the classic comfort food. With a velvety butternut squash sauce and a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups butternut squash puree (cooked and blended)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Boil the macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, then slowly add milk. Cook until thickened. Stir in butternut squash puree, seasonings, and cheeses until smooth.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, coat evenly, and serve warm, garnished as desired.
Notes
- You can use store-bought or homemade butternut squash puree.
- For a smoother texture, blend the sauce before adding cheese.
- Enhance with cooked bacon or sautéed spinach for variety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
