Are you looking for a comforting and creamy dish that will warm you up on a chilly day? Look no further than this recipe for pumpkin macaroni and cheese. This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with the classic comfort of macaroni and cheese, creating a mouthwatering meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup elbow macaroni
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup pureed pumpkin
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk until smooth, creating a roux.
4. Gradually add the heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
5. Stir in the pureed pumpkin, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Continue to whisk until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the saucepan and stir until well combined.
7. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the greased baking dish.
8. In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, and garlic powder. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the macaroni and cheese is bubbly.
10. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious pumpkin macaroni and cheese with a side of your favorite vegetables or a slice of crusty bread.
This recipe for pumpkin macaroni and cheese is a fantastic way to add a touch of fall flavor to your dinner table. With its creamy texture and rich pumpkin taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and let us know what you think!
