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Baked Pumpkin Mac Cheese: 10 Min Prep

Baked Pumpkin Mac Cheese

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A creamy and comforting baked pumpkin mac and cheese recipe perfect for fall. This easy dish combines tender macaroni with a rich, velvety pumpkin cheese sauce, topped with bubbly, golden cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces Macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 cup Milk
  • 16 ounces Cheddar Cheese, grated
  • 15 ounces Pumpkin Puree
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • ¼ teaspoon Nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
  • ¼ ounce Fresh Sage, optional

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  3. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a smooth roux.
  4. Slowly whisk in milk until the mixture is slightly thickened and smooth.
  5. Stir in pumpkin puree, ½ cup of the grated cheese, garlic powder, nutmeg, and black pepper until creamy.
  6. Combine the drained macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring all pasta is coated.
  7. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish.
  8. Top with the reserved grated cheese.
  9. Bake for 10 minutes.
  10. Switch oven to broil and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown, watching closely.
  11. Garnish with fresh sage, if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Grate your cheese from a block for the best melting results.
  • Adjust nutmeg and pepper to your taste.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • You can add other cheeses like Gouda or Gruyère for a more complex flavor.
  • Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients.
  • For a slight kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

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