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Easy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe

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3.9 from 39 reviews

This Easy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese recipe blends creamy pumpkin with sharp cheddar and parmesan cheeses to create a deliciously comforting twist on classic mac and cheese. Ready in just 25 minutes, it's a perfect fall-inspired dish that's creamy, cheesy, and subtly spiced with nutmeg and mustard, ideal for a cozy meal any day of the week.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 pound pasta shells or macaroni

Sauce

  • 2 Tablespoons butter
  • 1 12-ounce can evaporated milk
  • 1 15-ounce can pure pumpkin puree
  • 2 teaspoons prepared yellow mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • ¾ cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

  • Finely chopped chives (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells or macaroni and cook until just shy of al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the cooking water for later use.
  2. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the evaporated milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in the pumpkin puree, prepared yellow mustard, and nutmeg until well combined.
  3. Add the cheeses: Stir in the grated sharp cheddar and parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheeses melt smoothly into the sauce. Season with salt to taste.
  4. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the pumpkin cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach the desired consistency.
  5. Season and serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with finely chopped chives for a fresh and colorful finish.

Notes

  • Use pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid added sugars and spices.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, use less reserved pasta water; for a creamier sauce, add more.
  • Sharp cheddar provides a nice punch, but you can substitute with mild cheddar or gouda for a different flavor.
  • This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta shells.
  • Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can provide a subtle heat if desired.

Find it online: https://recipethrive.com/easy-pumpkin-mac-and-cheese-recipe/