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pumpkin macaroni and cheese with white cheddar on a small white topped with fresh herbs
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5 from 1 vote

Pumpkin Macaroni And Cheese with White Cheddar

Pumpkin macaroni and cheese with white cheddar is a delicious version of the classic dish perfect for a cozy fall meal or side dish. Slightly sweet from the pumpkin and decadently creamy and cheesy, this is a savory pumpkin lover's comfort food dreams come true.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine: American
Servings: 8
Calories: 550kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb small pasta ex: penne, rotini, elbow
  • 3 tbsp butter + 2 tbsp divided
  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 3 cups of milk
  • salt & pepper to taste
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 3 cups shredded white cheddar cheese + extra cheese for topping
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta according to the package directions, just until al dente. Transfer to a strainer, and run the pasta under cold water to stop it cooking. Set aside the cooled, cooked pasta.
  • In large a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk the flour into the butter, and let it cook out the flour taste. Whisk in the milk, one cup at a time, to form a roux. Bring the roux to a simmer and continue cooking, and whisking occasionally, until it's thickened a bit, about 5 minutes.
  • Whisk in the garlic powder, paprika, mustard, and salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in the pumpkin until the sauce is smooth. Add in the cheeses and stir until they've melted and the sauce is once again smooth. Turn off the heat, and transfer the pasta to the skillet. Gently toss to combine, until all the pasta is coated.
  • Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a casserole dish. Spread it out evenly and add some extra shredded cheddar cheese to the top, followed by the bread crumb topping. Dot the crumb topping with the additional butter.
  • Bake at 375 degrees for 20-30 minutes, or until the macaroni and cheese is bubbling and the crumb topping is lightly browned and crisp.

Notes

  • Want to serve this as a main and make it even heartier? Add a few strips of crumbled cooked bacon to the pasta.
  • Don't have white cheddar? You can use regular cheddar if you prefer.
  • When you are making the cheese sauce, if in doubt, stir. Extra stirring will keep the sauce smooth.

Nutrition

Calories: 550kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 73mg | Sodium: 563mg | Potassium: 380mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 4423IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 523mg | Iron: 2mg