Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese (45 Minutes)

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Introducing Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese – a comforting blend of creamy macaroni and the rich essence of butternut squash. This recipe harmonizes the sweetness of the squash with the classic allure of mac and cheese. With just a few simple ingredients and 45 minutes of your time, you can have a crave-worthy dish on your table the whole family will love!

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 cups butternut squash (peeled and cubed)
  • 8 oz macaroni pasta
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Boil the butternut squash until tender, then blend until smooth.
  3. Cook macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
  4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  5. Add the blended squash, cheddar cheese, and milk to the saucepan. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
  6. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, then transfer to a baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top and bake for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
  8. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Opt for sharp cheddar cheese for that intense flavor punch. For a crispy breadcrumb topping, you can mix them with a bit of melted butter before sprinkling. Feel free to customize with add-ins like cooked bacon or sautéed spinach for extra layers of taste. Don’t overcook the butternut squash – it should be fork-tender, not mushy. Serve with a simple green salad for a complete meal and enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

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