Save to Pinterest A creamy, comforting mac and cheese with a silky butternut squash sauce, perfectly blending cheesy goodness and a boost of hidden veggies all made in one pot for easy cleanup.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite because it combines comfort food with nutritious vegetables in a way thats easy and delicious.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni or small pasta shells
- Vegetables: 2 cups (about 350 g) butternut squash peeled and diced, 1 small carrot peeled and diced, 1 small onion diced, 2 cloves garlic minced
- Dairy & Cheese: 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk, 1 cup (240 ml) water, 1 ½ cups (150 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter
- Seasonings: ½ tsp salt (or to taste), ¼ tsp ground black pepper, ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional), ½ tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large pot melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and butternut squash. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Step 2:
- Pour in milk and water. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes until the squash and carrot are very tender.
- Step 3:
- Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture in the pot until smooth and creamy (or carefully transfer to a blender and return to the pot).
- Step 4:
- Stir in the uncooked pasta, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to maintain a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently, until pasta is al dente and sauce has thickened (about 10 minutes). Add a splash more water or milk if needed.
- Step 5:
- Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot.
Save to Pinterest Our family loves enjoying this dish together on chilly evenings as it combines comfort with nutrition and always brings smiles to the table.
Notes
For a gluten free version, use gluten free pasta. Pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted broccoli.
Required Tools
Large pot with lid, immersion blender or standard blender, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (dairy), cheese, and wheat (gluten from pasta). For allergies, use dairy free cheese and milk alternatives and gluten free pasta as needed. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Save to Pinterest This butternut squash mac and cheese offers a delicious way to sneak in vegetables while delighting both kids and adults alike.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute sweet potato for butternut squash?
Yes, sweet potato can be used to provide a slightly different sweet and creamy profile while maintaining the sauce's texture.
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni or small pasta shells are ideal as they easily hold the sauce and cook evenly in one pot.
- → How do I ensure the sauce is smooth and creamy?
Sauté the vegetables until tender, then puree them thoroughly with an immersion or standard blender before cooking the pasta together in the same pot.
- → Can I add extra vegetables to the dish?
Yes, adding a handful of spinach in the last few minutes of cooking boosts the veggie content without changing the flavor balance.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Use gluten-free pasta alternatives to adapt this dish for gluten-sensitive individuals while keeping the cooking method unchanged.