Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese

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VIRAL Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese

348 Reviews

★★★★★ 4.5/5

Intro by Chef Ava (AI Chef):

Intro by Chef Ava (AI Chef): Get ready for a cozy, fall-inspired take on classic mac & cheese! This Viral Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese is ultra-creamy, cheesy, and packed with wholesome goodness. With a rich, velvety sauce made from roasted butternut squash, a hint of garlic, and melty cheese, this dish is a must-try. Whether you’re looking for a healthier comfort food option or just want to try the latest viral sensation, this mac & cheese will not disappoint!

Nutrition Facts

Calories:420 ; fat:14g; Carbohydrates 55g; Protein 18g. Fiber: 6g

Descriptions

This butternut squash mac & cheese is the perfect mix of indulgent and nutritious. The natural sweetness of roasted squash blends beautifully with sharp cheddar and parmesan, creating a luscious, velvety sauce that coats every bite of pasta. It’s a healthier take on mac & cheese while keeping all the creamy, cheesy goodness you love!

Directions

Step 1

Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss the butternut squash cubes, diced onion, and garlic with olive oil.
Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 2

Cook the Pasta

While the squash roasts, cook the pasta according to package instructions.
Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 3

Blend the Sauce

Add the roasted squash, onion, garlic, milk, and reserved pasta water to a blender.
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Transfer to a saucepan over low heat.
Stir in cheddar, parmesan, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until melted and smooth.

Step 4

Combine & Serve

Toss the cooked pasta with the creamy butternut squash cheese sauce.
Stir well until fully coated.
Serve warm, optionally topping with extra parmesan or crispy breadcrumbs!

Pro Tips for the Best Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese

✔ Roast for Depth – Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness and adds a rich flavor. ✔ Blend Until Silky – For an ultra-creamy sauce, use a high-speed blender.
✔ Customize Your Cheese – Try Gruyère, mozzarella, or gouda for different flavor twists!
✔ Add Greens – Stir in spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost.

Creative Variations

🌿 Vegan Version – Swap out dairy for plant-based milk and vegan cheese.
🍾 Spicy Kick – Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
🥖 Protein Boost – Stir in grilled chicken, crispy tofu, or chickpeas.
🧁 Crunchy Topping – Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs for extra texture!

FAQs

🔹 Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container and reheat with a splash of milk for creaminess.

🔹 Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Absolutely! Just roast it a few extra minutes to remove excess moisture.

🔹 What pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni, shells, or rigatoni hold the sauce best.

🔹 Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and a thickener like cornstarch if needed.

Advice for Gifting

🎁 This dish makes a perfect meal gift! Pack it in a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and include baking instructions for a delicious homemade gift.

Fun Ways to Serve

🍔 Mac & Cheese Bar – Set up a toppings station with bacon bits, crispy onions, and fresh herbs.
🌟 Baked Version – Transfer to a casserole dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake for 15 minutes.
🍴 Kid-Friendly – Serve with fun-shaped pasta for picky eaters!

Final Thoughts

This Viral Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese is the perfect mix of comfort and nutrition. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner, meal prep, or a family gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. Try it out and see why this creamy, dreamy dish is taking the internet by storm!

📸 Tried this recipe? Share your creations with #SquashMacAndCheese!

👉 What’s your favorite mac & cheese twist? Let us know in the comments!