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Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

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Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. This luscious dish combines the sweetness of butternut squash with rich, melted cheddar cheese, creating a velvety sauce that envelops elbow macaroni perfectly. Ideal for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings, this mac and cheese is both visually stunning and incredibly satisfying. Get ready to impress your loved ones with every creamy bite!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Steam or boil the butternut squash cubes until fork-tender (about 10-15 minutes). Drain and blend until smooth.
  2. Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour to form a roux; cook for about 1 minute.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk, bringing it to a simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Add the butternut squash puree and mix well.
  6. Fold in the cooked macaroni until evenly coated. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Keywords: For added texture, consider topping with breadcrumbs or extra cheese before baking. Experiment with different cheeses or spices like cayenne for an extra kick. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk.