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Cheesy Baked Pumpkin Mac and Cheese: 1 Comforting Dish

Cheesy Baked Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
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This cheesy baked pumpkin mac and cheese is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish perfect for a cozy meal. It combines creamy pumpkin puree with sharp cheddar cheese for a delightful twist on a classic.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, whisking constantly, until thickened.
  5. Stir in the pumpkin puree, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 3 cups of the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
  8. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  9. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
  10. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the breadcrumbs.
  11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
  12. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For an extra creamy mac and cheese, use whole milk.
  • You can add other cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for added flavor complexity.
  • A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://afripaket.com/cheesy-baked-pumpkin-mac-and-cheese-recipe/