Description
A creamy, one-pot mac and cheese made with butternut squash for a velvety sauce without heavy cream. Ready in just 20 minutes, this kid-approved comfort food is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups cubed butternut squash (450g)
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (340g)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (960ml)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (225g)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add butter and melt until foaming (about 1 minute).
- Add minced garlic and stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
- Add cubed butternut squash to coat in butter and garlic. Pour in broth and scrape up any bits from the bottom. Bring to a boil.
- Add elbow macaroni to the boiling broth. Stir well to prevent sticking.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes. Cook until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed into a thick, starchy slurry.
- Turn off the heat and let cool for 30 seconds. Stir in milk and nutmeg.
- Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Add remaining cheese and stir until smooth and glossy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or nutmeg if needed.
Notes
Do not drain the pasta water; the starchy liquid is essential for binding the sauce. Shred your own cheese to avoid anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. If the sauce is too thick, add hot water or broth one tablespoon at a time. If too thin, simmer uncovered for 1-2 minutes. Do not freeze as the cheese sauce may separate.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 580
- Fat: 16
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 52
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 18
Keywords: butternut squash mac and cheese, one pot pasta, easy weeknight dinner, fall recipes, kid-friendly meals, creamy mac and cheese, vegetarian comfort food