Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese is a delicious twist on the classic comfort food. By adding butternut squash, you not only enhance the flavor but also add nutrition to the meal. This recipe combines creamy cheese, pasta, and the natural sweetness of squash to create a hearty dish that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese is a great choice for many reasons. First, it’s a cozy comfort food that is perfect for chilly evenings. Second, it sneaks in extra vegetables, making it a bit healthier than traditional mac and cheese. Lastly, it is simple to prepare and appeals to both kids and adults alike.
How to Make Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups macaroni pasta
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Nutmeg (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil the macaroni pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cubed butternut squash and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked squash to a blender. Add milk, butter, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and the butternut squash sauce. Mix in the shredded cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with extra cheese if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Serve hot.
How to Serve Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese
Serve Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a touch of color and flavor.
How to Store Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese
To store leftovers, let the mac and cheese cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just cover it tightly and it will last up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese
- Make sure to cook the butternut squash until it is very soft so that it blends easily.
- You can use any pasta shape you like; shells or penne work great too.
- If you want a bit of crunch, consider topping the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs before baking.
Variation
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. You can also mix in cooked bacon or sausage for added flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen butternut squash?
A: Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before blending.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and check your cheese and other ingredients for gluten content.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you are ready to serve.
Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups macaroni pasta Any pasta shape like shells or penne can be used.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend) Extra cheese can be added on top if desired.
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- to taste Salt and pepper
- optional Nutmeg For additional flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil the macaroni pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cubed butternut squash and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked squash to a blender. Add milk, butter, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and the butternut squash sauce. Mix in the shredded cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with extra cheese if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve hot.