Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese is a creamy, cozy twist on the classic comfort dish. The natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash blends perfectly with melted cheese to create a rich, velvety sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. It’s a lighter, vegetable-packed version of mac and cheese that’s still indulgent enough to satisfy any craving — perfect for weeknights, holidays, or when you just want a warm, comforting meal.
Ingredients
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3 cups peeled and cubed butternut squash
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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8 ounces elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
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½ cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
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1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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¼ teaspoon nutmeg
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¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Cooking Time
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Prep time: 15 minutes
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Cook time: 35 minutes
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Total time: 50 minutes
Serving
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Serves 4–6
Instructions
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Roast the squash:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, until tender and lightly caramelized. -
Cook the pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside. -
Make the sauce base:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually add milk and broth, whisking until smooth and slightly thickened. -
Blend the squash:
Transfer the roasted squash to a blender or food processor. Add the milk mixture and blend until smooth and creamy. -
Combine with cheese:
Pour the sauce back into the pot and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, nutmeg, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is velvety. -
Mix with pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir until evenly coated. Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with Parmesan, and broil for 2–3 minutes if you’d like a golden crust. -
Serve:
Spoon into bowls and enjoy warm — creamy, cheesy, and slightly sweet with that signature butternut richness.
Tips
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Add crispy breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.
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Use whole-wheat pasta for a heartier version.
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Mix in steamed broccoli or spinach for extra veggies.
Nutrition (per serving)
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Calories: 390
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Protein: 16g
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Carbohydrates: 45g
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Fat: 16g
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Fiber: 4g
This Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese is everything you want in comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and satisfying — with a touch of sweetness from the squash that makes it feel wholesome and special.
