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Casseroles and Baked Meals

Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

4 servings
Vegetarian Diet, American Simmering, Baking

This Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. It's a healthier take, with roasted butternut squash pureed into the cheese sauce to give it a vibrant color, luxurious texture, and a subtle sweetness. This recipe perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, making...

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... it a new family favorite.

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Sarah Sarah Cool Cook
September 24, 2025
detail front shot of freshly made1. Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese just being scopped with wooden spoon
  • 40 min.
  • 1 h. 15 min.
  • 3/5
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Ingredients:

Tools:

Recipes

Best served with:

Black Bean and Beef Chili
BBQ – Honey Pork Ribs
Pulled pork

Directions:

1. Roasting the Butternut Squash:

Let’s start with the preparation of Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese by preparing the butternut squash.

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
  • Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized. Let it cool slightly.
  • Transfer the roasted squash to a food processor or blender and blend until completely smooth. Set aside.

2. Cooking Pasta and Making the Cheese Sauce:

  • While the squash is roasting, cook the macaroni in a large pot according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a medium pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in the warm milk, a little at a time, until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
  • Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, along with the nutmeg and cayenne pepper, until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

3. Assembling and Baking the Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese:

  • Stir the butternut squash purée into the cheese sauce until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Add the cooked macaroni to the pot with the sauce and stir until every noodle is coated.
  • Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  • Sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs if using.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  • Let the Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Kitchen Guide

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About the Author:
SarahCool Cook
# 8
  • Published Recipes: 12
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  • Location: California, USA
  • Member since: 2024-09-15
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