Stovetop Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Stovetop Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of mac and cheese with the rich, velvety sweetness of pumpkin. The creamy pumpkin sauce creates a unique twist on the traditional mac and cheese, making it perfect for fall or whenever you want something cozy and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s an easy and quick twist on the classic mac and cheese. The pumpkin adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor, while the cheese brings the richness you crave. It’s comforting, creamy, and a great way to enjoy pumpkin outside of the usual fall desserts. Plus, it’s all made on the stovetop in one pot!

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)

• Salt, for pasta water

For the Pumpkin Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

• 1 cup milk (whole or 2% works best)

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cheese:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional, for added creaminess)

For Garnish (optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Extra grated Parmesan or cheese for topping

• Crumbled crispy sage leaves for extra flavor (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

2. Make the Pumpkin Sauce:

1. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to make a roux. Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbly.

2. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring to create a smooth sauce. Bring it to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

3. Stir in the pumpkin puree, garlic powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

3. Add the Cheese:

1. Lower the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. If using, stir in the crumbled goat cheese for added creaminess.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat it evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the pasta is heated through and the sauce has thickened to your liking.

5. Serve:

1. Serve the creamy pumpkin mac and cheese in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and optional crispy sage leaves.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. Prep time is about 5 minutes, cook time is about 15 minutes, so total time is around 20 minutes.

Variations

I like to:

• Add sautéed spinach or kale for extra greens.

• Use a combination of cheeses, like mozzarella or Gruyère, for a different flavor.

• Stir in roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the pumpkin sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time, then combine them and heat it up when ready to serve.

Can I freeze this?
While you can freeze the sauce, the texture of the cheese and pasta may change upon reheating. It’s best to enjoy it fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free butter, plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk), and vegan cheese to make it dairy-free.

Can I add extra flavor to the sauce?
Yes! You can add a touch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.

Conclusion

Stovetop Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic. With its creamy pumpkin sauce, savory cheese, and pasta, it’s a perfect dish for cozy fall nights. Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving a crowd, this dish will become a fall favorite!

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