Save to Pinterest One-Pot Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese Hidden Veggie Twist A creamy comforting mac and cheese with a silky butternut squash sauce perfectly blending cheesy goodness and a boost of hidden veggies all made in one pot for easy cleanup
I love making this recipe because it combines cheesy goodness with nutritious vegetables in a single pot making it quick and easy to prepare after a busy day
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni or small pasta shells
- Vegetables: 2 cups (about 350 g) butternut squash peeled and diced 1 small carrot peeled and diced 1 small onion diced 2 cloves garlic minced
- Dairy & Cheese: 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk 1 cup (240 ml) water 1 ½ cups (150 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter
- Seasonings: ½ tsp salt (or to taste) ¼ tsp ground black pepper ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional) ½ tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large pot melt butter over medium heat Add onion carrot and butternut squash Sauté for 57 minutes until vegetables begin to soften Add garlic and cook 1 minute more
- Step 2:
- Pour in milk and water Bring to a simmer cover and cook for 1012 minutes until the squash and carrot are very tender
- Step 3:
- Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture in the pot until smooth and creamy (or carefully transfer to a blender and return to the pot)
- Step 4:
- Stir in the uncooked pasta salt pepper nutmeg and Dijon mustard Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to maintain a simmer Cook uncovered stirring frequently until pasta is al dente and sauce has thickened (about 10 minutes) Add a splash more water or milk if needed
- Step 5:
- Remove from heat Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth Adjust seasoning to taste Serve hot
Save to Pinterest This dish always brings smiles and cozy moments to my family dinner table especially when my kids realize they just ate their veggies hidden in cheesy goodness
Required Tools
Large pot with lid Immersion blender or standard blender Wooden spoon or spatula Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains milk (dairy) cheese and wheat (gluten from pasta) For allergies use dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives and gluten-free pasta as needed Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 475 Total Fat 17 g Carbohydrates 62 g Protein 19 g per serving
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this wholesome twist on classic mac and cheese perfect for a quick nutritious meal any day
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve a smooth butternut squash sauce?
Sauté diced butternut squash with onion and carrot, then simmer in milk and water until tender. Use an immersion blender to puree until silky smooth.
- → Can I use different pasta shapes in this dish?
Yes, elbow macaroni or small pasta shells work best as they cook evenly and hold the sauce well.
- → What can I substitute for butternut squash?
Sweet potato makes a great alternative, providing a similar texture and subtle sweetness.
- → Is it possible to make a gluten-free version?
Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs while maintaining the dish's creamy texture.
- → How can I add extra vegetables to boost nutrition?
Adding a handful of spinach during the last few minutes of cooking enhances both flavor and nutrients.
- → What spices complement this creamy mac?
A touch of nutmeg and Dijon mustard offers warmth and depth without overpowering the cheese and squash flavors.