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Creamy Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese

Creamy Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese

This Creamy Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese is the ultimate cozy comfort dish — creamy, cheesy, and secretly loaded with veggies! The roasted butternut squash adds a subtle sweetness and velvety texture, blending perfectly with melted cheddar and parmesan for a rich, satisfying bite. It’s a fall favorite that’s both indulgent and wholesome — perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday sides.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Course: comfort food, main dish, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Fall Recipe
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Sauce:
  • 2 cups butternut squash peeled and cubed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups milk whole or 2%
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp paprika optional
  • For the Pasta:
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
  • 1 tbsp salt for boiling water

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Saucepan
  • Blender or immersion blender
  • Baking dish (optional for baked version)
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta
  2. Bring salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Cook the Squash
  4. In a saucepan, add butternut squash and cover with water. Boil for 10–12 minutes or until tender. Drain.
  5. Blend the Sauce Base
  6. Add cooked squash, milk, and butter to a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  7. Make the Cheese Sauce
  8. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  9. Add the Cheese
  10. Stir in cheddar and parmesan until melted and smooth.
  11. Combine & Serve
  12. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir until well coated. Serve warm or transfer to a baking dish and broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden cheesy top.

Notes

For extra creaminess, stir in 2 tbsp of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
Make it gluten-free by using GF pasta and flour.
Add spinach or peas for a veggie boost.
Reheat gently with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.