Pumpkin Mac Bowl
A comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of macaroni and cheese with the nutritious goodness of pumpkin, perfect for chilly evenings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz macaroni
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or roasted)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups milk (or plant-based milk)
- 3 tbsp butter (or vegan butter)
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni by boiling water in a large pot, adding salt, and cooking according to package instructions until al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheesy sauce by melting butter in the same pot, then adding flour and stirring for about a minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and stir until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the pumpkin puree and mix well. Stir in the cheese until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Combine the drained macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with bread crumbs if desired, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Serve and enjoy once cooled slightly.
Notes
Consider adding fresh herbs or cherry tomatoes as garnishes for extra flavor and color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: pumpkin, macaroni and cheese, comfort food, fall recipes, vegetarian recipes