Macaroni and cheese is undeniably a comfort food favorite for many. But what happens when you mix in the flavors of pumpkin and the savory goodness of ham? You get a dish that’s not just comforting but also full of rich, layered flavors. This mac and cheese is the kind of dish you whip up when you want to surprise your loved ones with something familiar, yet with an unexpected twist. And the best part? It’s simple to put together.

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni (10 minutes): In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce (5 minutes): In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until smooth. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken slightly.
Add Pumpkin and Cheese (5 minutes): Stir in the pumpkin puree, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Once incorporated, gradually add in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Mix Macaroni, Ham, and Cheese Sauce (3 minutes): In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and diced ham. Pour the pumpkin cheese sauce over the mixture and stir well to coat.
Bake (25 minutes): Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Place in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Notes

When it comes to this pumpkin and ham mac and cheese, the rich flavors are best enjoyed hot right out of the oven. You can always adjust the seasonings to your preference, maybe adding a hint more nutmeg or some smoked paprika for an added kick. Serve it with a crisp, green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance out the meal. A glass of white wine or a light beer can be an excellent companion to this hearty dish. Always remember, the quality of your cheese can make a huge difference, so choose wisely!

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

Pair this with...

Garlicky Sautéed Spinach

Begin with a generous bunch of fresh spinach, giving it a thorough rinse and patting it dry. In a large pan, heat a glug of olive oil until it's shimmering. Toss in finely chopped garlic — the more, the merrier for garlic lovers! Let the garlic sizzle just a bit, releasing its aromatic magic without letting it brown too much. Swiftly add in the spinach, watching as it wilts and soaks up that garlicky goodness. It'll reduce in size dramatically, but that's where the intense flavor comes in. Season with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, which brightens up the dish wonderfully. Serve it straight from the pan.