Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms both your heart and your belly, let me introduce you to my beloved butternut squash mac & cheese. This isn’t just any mac & cheese; it’s a creamy, dreamy twist on the classic that sneaks in a healthy dose of nutrition without sacrificing that cheesy goodness we all crave. I remember the first time I made this for my friends – they were skeptical about the squash but were blown away by the rich flavor and velvety texture. It’s become a staple at our dinner table, especially on chilly nights. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked too! So grab your pots and pans, and let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe together!

Ingredients List

To make this creamy butternut squash mac & cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 ounces of elbow macaroni
• 2 cups of butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups of vegetable broth
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything measured out before you start cooking. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable! Don’t worry too much about being precise—just get those ingredients ready, and we’ll have a delicious meal in no time.

How to Prepare butternut squash mac & cheese

Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! I promise, this process is super simple and oh-so-rewarding. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a creamy, delicious butternut squash mac & cheese that everyone will love!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First things first, let’s get that pasta going. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add in 8 ounces of elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente (which means firm to the bite!). This is key because it’ll continue cooking a bit when you mix it with the sauce. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Make sure to give it a little shake to remove excess water; we don’t want any soggy noodles!

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash

While the pasta is cooking, let’s tackle that butternut squash. In a medium-sized pot, combine 2 cups of peeled and cubed butternut squash with 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring this to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook until the squash is tender, which should take about 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you can easily pierce it with a fork. Don’t rush this step; the tenderness is crucial for a smooth sauce!

Step 3: Blend the Squash

Now comes the fun part! Once your squash is tender, carefully transfer the mixture to either an immersion blender or a regular blender. If using a regular blender, let it cool for a few minutes to avoid splatters (trust me, it can get messy!). Blend until smooth and creamy. This is what will give your mac & cheese its luscious texture, so make sure it’s well-blended. You want it to look like a beautiful, vibrant puree!

Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce

Return the blended squash mixture to the pot over low heat. Now, stir in 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Mix it well and let it gently warm up. This step is important because it helps meld all those flavors together, creating a comforting base for our mac & cheese.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Here’s where the magic happens! Gradually add in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese while stirring continuously. You’ll see it melt beautifully into the sauce, creating that dreamy, cheesy goodness we all want. Keep stirring until it’s completely melted and the sauce is nice and creamy. If it feels too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more milk until you reach your desired consistency!

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked macaroni to your cheesy butternut squash sauce and mix well. Make sure every noodle is coated with that creamy goodness. I like to use a spatula or a wooden spoon for this part; it helps to get everything evenly mixed without breaking the pasta.

Step 7: Serve

Your butternut squash mac & cheese is almost ready! Serve it warm right away for the best experience. If you want to take it up a notch, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top or even some fresh herbs for a pop of color. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Tips for Success

Before you dive into making your butternut squash mac & cheese, here are some handy tips to ensure everything goes smoothly and turns out delicious!

• Don’t rush the squash: Make sure your butternut squash is tender before blending. If it’s undercooked, you won’t get that smooth, creamy texture we’re after.
• Watch the pasta: Be careful not to overcook your macaroni. Al dente is the way to go since it will soften a bit more when mixed with the sauce.
• Blend it well: Take your time when blending the squash. A well-blended mixture is key to achieving that velvety sauce. If you’re using a regular blender, let the squash cool slightly to avoid hot splatters.
• Adjust the creaminess: If your cheese sauce feels too thick, just add a splash more milk until it reaches your desired consistency. You want it creamy but not too runny!
• Get creative: Feel free to sneak in some extra veggies or proteins like cooked chicken or spinach for added nutrition. Just make sure they’re cooked before mixing them in!

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a butternut squash mac & cheese that’s not just tasty but also a hit with everyone at the table!

Nutritional Information Section

Let’s talk about the nutrition in this delicious butternut squash mac & cheese! Each serving is packed with flavor and a healthy twist, making it a great option for a cozy meal. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fiber: 3g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to check the labels on your products if you’re keeping a close eye on your nutrition. Overall, this dish gives you a comforting meal with a hint of healthiness – win-win!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, frozen butternut squash is a great option. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking, and you can skip the peeling and cubing step. It’ll save you some prep time while still giving you that delicious flavor!

Q2: What type of cheese works best in butternut squash mac & cheese?
While I love using sharp cheddar for its rich flavor, you can mix things up! Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan can add a unique twist. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses to find the perfect blend!

Q3: Can I make this butternut squash mac & cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just prepare the dish up to the point of combining the pasta and cheese sauce. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

Q4: Is there a gluten-free version of butternut squash mac & cheese?
Definitely! Just swap out the elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta. There are so many options available now, and they work beautifully in this creamy mac & cheese recipe. You won’t even notice the difference!

Q5: How can I add more veggies to this dish?
Great question! You can toss in some cooked spinach, broccoli, or even peas for an extra nutritional boost. Just make sure any added veggies are cooked and at the same temperature as your mac & cheese before mixing them in. This way, you’ll have a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor and goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting & Cozy: This butternut squash mac & cheese wraps you in a warm hug with every creamy bite, making it the perfect dish for chilly nights.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll whip this up in no time, even if you’re new to cooking!
• Nutrient-Packed: Sneaking in that butternut squash means you’re getting vitamins and fiber without sacrificing flavor. It’s a win-win!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it even heartier, tailoring it to your family’s tastes.
• Quick Clean-Up: With just a few pots and utensils involved, clean-up is a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy your delicious creation!

For more information on the health benefits of butternut squash, check out this Healthline article. It provides insights into the nutritional advantages of incorporating this vegetable into your diet.

Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese: 7 Simple Steps to Yummy Joy

---

• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This creamy butternut squash mac & cheese is a comforting dish that combines classic flavors with a healthy twist.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 ounces of elbow macaroni
• 2 cups of butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups of vegetable broth
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

---

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a pot, combine the butternut squash and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil and simmer until the squash is tender, about 15 minutes.
3. Blend the cooked squash with the broth until smooth. You can use an immersion blender or a regular blender.
4. Return the blended mixture to the pot. Stir in the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Heat the mixture over low heat, then add the cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Serve the mac & cheese warm, garnished with extra cheese if desired.

Notes

• For a thicker sauce, use less milk.
• Feel free to add cooked vegetables or proteins for extra nutrition.
• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: butternut squash mac & cheese, creamy mac and cheese, vegetarian mac and cheese