When the craving for comfort food hits, nothing satisfies quite like a creamy, golden bowl of butternut squash mac and cheese. I love making this cozy twist on the classic because of its cheesy richness.
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Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Recipe
Butternut squash mac and cheese is a modern variation of the classic macaroni and cheese dish. Instead of relying solely on traditional cheese and cream, this version incorporates pureed roasted butternut squash.
This dish is not only a fantastic way to sneak extra veggies into dinner, but it also creates a lighter, silkier sauce compared to classic recipes. The gentle sweetness of the squash balances sharp cheeses. This gives subtle complexity you won’t find in ordinary mac and cheese.
You can bake it or make it in a stove-top style. Either way, this dish is perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or as a make-ahead comfort meal.
The dish pairs well with a variety of foods. It can be enjoyed with buttery garlic bread, cheesy rolls, or fluffy homemade dinner rolls. Roasted vegetables, such as smoky brussels sprouts, charred broccoli, or caramelized onions, are great choices.
For those looking to add some brightness, a crisp side salad is an excellent match for the creamy richness. Options include pomegranate pear salad, cranberry almond salad, or a tangy vinaigrette-dressed kale salad.
The butternut squash mac and cheese teams up effortlessly with proteins like grilled chicken, BBQ pork ribs, or tender pulled pork. For something special, try grilled scallop skewers or a juicy chimichurri steak. If you want to keep things cozy, cocktail sausages or crispy bacon crumbles are popular add-ons.
Here’s how to make the butternut squash mac and cheese:
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups peeled and cubed butternut squash
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk whole or 2%
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Steam or boil butternut squash cubes until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and mash or blend until smooth.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in mashed butternut squash, cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Mix cheese sauce with cooked macaroni. Transfer to a baking dish if desired.
- Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden.
- Enjoy warm as a main dish or side.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Can substitute gluten-free pasta and milk alternatives for dietary preferences.
SIMILAR RECIPES:
Variations
Here are some exciting ways to create other versions this butternut squash mac and cheese recipe.
- Classic Baked Version is topped with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then baked until golden for a bubbly, crispy finish.
- Vegan Version relies on plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and nutritional yeast for creamy richness with zero dairy.
- Spicy Jalapeño Variation features roasted or pickled jalapeños mixed in for a gentle, spicy kick that pairs well with the squash’s sweetness.
- Bacon or Pancetta Topped Butternut Mac and Cheese includes a sprinkle of crispy bacon or pancetta for a savory, smoky contrast.
- Greens-Stirred Version adds sautéed kale, spinach, or Swiss chard, creating extra nutrition and a welcome touch of green color.
- Goat Cheese Blend uses creamy goat cheese in the sauce for tang and added complexity alongside the butternut squash.
- Nut-Free Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese omits nuts, relying on seeds or a blend of cheeses for those with allergies but still ensuring creaminess.
- Gluten-Free Variation uses gluten-free pasta and alternative flours for the sauce so everyone can enjoy the dish without compromise.