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5 from 2 votes

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Learn how to make creamy, delicious Pumpkin Mac and Cheese that'll wow the whole family! It's healthy and delicious, and perfect for fall.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Servings: 8 servings
Author: Kristin Maxwell

Ingredients

  • 16 ounce large elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground sage
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • pinch of nutmeg
  • 15 ounce can pumpkin puree not pie filling
  • 2 cups freshly grated white cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • fresh thyme or sage leaves optional, for garnish

Instructions

  • Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain pasta about 1 minute before instructed; just slightly before pasta is al dente. Set aside.
  • Whisk milk and pumpkin together in a medium bowl or glass measuring cup with a pour spout. Set aside.
  • Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook, whisking constantly, until golden in color; about 1-2 minutes.
  • Whisk in thyme, sage and paprika and cook for 1 minute.
  • Whisk in milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Do not boil. Simmer until thickened; about 5 minutes, whisking frequently.
  • Stir in salt, pepper, nutmeg and pumpkin purée until smooth. Use an immersion blender if desired to create a completely smooth sauce.
  • Remove from heat and stir in cheeses until melted.
  • Add macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to completley coat the pasta.
  • Garnish with fresh cracked black peper and fresh thyme or sage leaves, if desired.

Notes

Try this straight from the stove when you're in a rush! You can also bake it with toasted Panko breadcrumbs for the perfect crunchy topping.

Nutrition

Calories: 443kcal | Carbohydrates: 53g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 49mg | Sodium: 491mg | Potassium: 369mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 8860IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 359mg | Iron: 2mg

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