Go Back

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

This comforting dish combines tender pasta with a velvety pumpkin and cheese sauce, baked until bubbly and golden. The sauce is enriched with sweet pumpkin puree, sharp cheddar, and warm spices, creating a creamy, flavorful base with a crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s a cozy, fall-inspired twist on classic mac and cheese that’s both simple and unexpectedly delightful.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz penne or rotini pasta cooked until just al dente
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree rich and velvety
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for dairy-free
  • 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon warm and aromatic
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg a pinch for depth
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter for topping

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet or saucepan
  • Baking dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the diced onion. Sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes, until it begins to soften and smell sweet.
  3. Stir in the pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and slightly thickened, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pumpkin sauce, stirring until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Combine the cooked pasta with the pumpkin cheese sauce, tossing gently until evenly coated.
  6. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Butter a baking dish and transfer the coated pasta into it, spreading evenly.
  7. Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly over the top of the pasta.
  8. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbling around the edges and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
  9. Remove from the oven and let sit for a few minutes. Serve hot, with a crispy topping and a creamy, cheesy interior that’s perfect for cozy fall nights.