If the idea of a creamy, cheesy dish with a hidden vegetable twist excites you, then you're in for a treat. Imagine indulging in a bowl of macaroni and cheese that not only satisfies your cravings but also sneaks in some nutritious goodness. Butternut squash mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a delicious twist.
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Butternut Squash Macaroni and Cheese
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Butternut Squash Macaroni and Cheese
Ingredients
- 350 g 12 oz butternut squash puree
- 3 cups macaroni
- 4 tablespoon butter
- 1 ½ cups milk
- salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup herbed cream cheese
- ½ cup pasta water
- ⅔ cup mozzarella shredde
- ⅔ cup cheddar cheese shredded
- ½ cup gouda cheese shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
- Cook macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water for half the time listed in the instructions. Drain, reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and melt butter. Add flour and cook for 1 minute. Whisk in milk and cook the sauce base for 5 minutes.
- Mix the sauce base with butternut squash puree, cream cheese, salt and pepper.
- Make a cheese blend combining mozzarella with cheddar and gouda. Add half of the cheese mix into the sauce. Mix sauce with cooked pasta and pasta water (don;t worry if it looks soupy after — excess water will absorb).
- Pour macaroni into a prepared baking dish and sprinkle more cheese on top.
- Bake for 35 minutes.
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 350 g (12 oz) butternut squash puree
- 3 cups macaroni
- 4 tablespoon butter
- 1 ½ cups milk
- salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup herbed cream cheese
- ½ cup pasta water
- ⅔ cup mozzarella, shredde
- ⅔ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup gouda cheese, shredded
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
Cook macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water for half the time listed in the instructions. Drain, reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and melt butter. Add flour and cook for 1 minute. Whisk in milk and cook the sauce base for 5 minutes.
Mix the sauce base with butternut squash puree, cream cheese, salt and pepper.
Make a cheese blend combining mozzarella with cheddar and gouda. Add half of the cheese mix into the sauce. Mix sauce with cooked pasta and pasta water (don;t worry if it looks soupy after — excess water will absorb).
Pour macaroni into a prepared baking dish and sprinkle more cheese on top.
Bake for 35 minutes.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Pairing your butternut squash mac and cheese with the right sides can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some suggestions:
Fresh Green Salad
A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy mac and cheese. The crispness of the greens balances the dish, making each bite more satisfying.
Roasted Vegetables
Consider serving roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus alongside your mac and cheese. The caramelized flavors of the roasted veggies complement the creamy pasta beautifully.
Garlic Bread
For a classic touch, you can't go wrong with garlic bread. The crunchy exterior and the garlicky, buttery interior make it a perfect companion to the soft, cheesy macaroni.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Creating the best butternut squash mac and cheese isn't just about following the recipe; it's about mastering the little details that make a big difference. Here are some chef's tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:
Use Fresh, Quality Ingredients
Always opt for fresh and high-quality ingredients. Fresh butternut squash puree, good-quality cheeses, and real butter make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
Don't Overcook the Pasta
Cook your macaroni for only half the time listed on the package instructions. This way, it will finish cooking in the oven, absorbing all the flavors without becoming mushy.
Mix Cheeses for Depth of Flavor
Using a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and gouda gives your mac and cheese a more complex and satisfying flavor profile. The combination of these cheeses provides the perfect balance of creaminess and sharpness.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Pre-Made Butternut Squash Puree?
Yes, you can use store-bought butternut squash puree if you're short on time. Just make sure it’s pure squash without added ingredients. You can also use pumpkin puree if you're in a pinch.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour in the sauce with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Absolutely! Butternut squash mac and cheese freezes well. Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warm.
Can I Customize the Cheese Blend?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations based on your preference. Adding cheeses like Parmesan, feta, or even a spicy pepper jack can elevate the flavour profile and give your dish a unique twist.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
To create a vegan version of butternut squash mac and cheese, substitute dairy cheese with plant-based alternatives and use a creamy, dairy-free milk (such as almond or cashew milk). You can also replace butter with a vegan spread.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover butternut squash mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-4 days. Be sure to reheat it gently on the stove or in the oven to maintain its creamy texture.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Yes! To make your butternut squash mac and cheese heartier, consider adding cooked chicken, turkey, or even crumbled bacon. For a vegetarian option, chickpeas or cooked lentils provide a great protein boost while keeping the dish nutritious.
How Long Does It Take to Make This Dish?
The preparation time for butternut squash mac and cheese is about 15-20 minutes, with an additional 30-40 minutes of baking time. Overall, you can expect to spend around an hour from start to finish, depending on your familiarity with the recipe.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
If you love the ease and comfort of casseroles, you're in for more treats. Casseroles are a fantastic way to combine various ingredients into one delicious dish. Here are a few more casserole recipes to try:
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