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Creamy One-Pot Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese (Easy)

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese - featured image
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A comforting, one-pot mac and cheese that uses butternut squash to create a creamy, velvety sauce without heavy cream or roux. It combines sweet squash with sharp cheddar for a wholesome, seasonal meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
  • 8 oz (225g) small pasta (elbows, shells, or cavatappi)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Peel and dice the butternut squash into small ½-inch cubes. Grate the cheese and measure the pasta.
  2. Place a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add butter and melt until foaming.
  3. Add minced garlic and stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
  4. Pour in the milk and add the diced squash. Stir to combine and add a pinch of salt and nutmeg. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add the pasta to the pot, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Add more milk or water if needed. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a lid.
  6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes to prevent sticking and help the squash break down. Check for al dente pasta.
  7. Once pasta is cooked and liquid is absorbed, mash some of the squash cubes against the side of the pot to thicken the sauce.
  8. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 1 minute to cool slightly.
  9. Stir in the shredded cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Grate your own cheese to avoid anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Stir frequently to prevent burning. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm milk. If too thin, let it sit uncovered to reduce. This recipe does not freeze well as the cheese sauce may separate.

Nutrition

Keywords: butternut squash mac and cheese, one pot pasta, healthy mac and cheese, fall recipes, vegetarian dinner, creamy pasta, easy weeknight meals

Find it online: https://zoeplate.com/creamy-one-pot-butternut-squash-mac-and-cheese-easy/