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–+ servings

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

A creamy, cheesy dish infused with the subtle sweetness of butternut squash, perfect for both kids and adults.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 2/3 cup cooked, mashed butternut squash About 1 pound of squash before cooking or 3 cups diced squash.
  • 1/2 pound mezzi rigatoni Any small shaped pasta such as elbow macaroni or penne.
  • 1 1/4 cup cheddar cheese Shredded for optimal melting.
  • 3/4 cup smoked gouda cheese Adds a rich, smoky flavor.
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese Shredded to provide a savory depth.
  • 1/4 cup butter Unsalted for better control of seasoning.
  • 1/4 cup flour To thicken the cheese sauce beautifully.
  • 2 cups milk Whole milk works best for creaminess.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg Ground nutmeg adds warmth to the sauce.
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper For a hint of spice without overwhelming flavors.
  • 1/4 teaspoon tabasco sauce Adds just a touch of heat to balance the richness.

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Butternut Squash: Peel, seed, and dice the butternut squash into cubes, boil until tender (about 15 minutes), then mash until smooth and set aside.
  2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the mezzi rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve about half a cup of pasta water.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, whisk in the flour until smooth to create a roux, then gradually add in the milk while whisking continuously until thickened.
  4. Combine Cheeses & Seasoning: Once the sauce has thickened, remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, smoked gouda, parmesan cheese, salt, nutmeg, pepper, and Tabasco sauce until fully melted.
  5. Mix Everything Together: Stir in the mashed butternut squash and cooked pasta into the cheese sauce mixture until well combined.
  6. Bake (Optional): Transfer everything into a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15g

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