Pumpkin Mac and Cheese: Perfect Fall Comfort Food

Last updated on January 15th, 2025

Mac and cheese has long been a go-to comfort food, but adding pumpkin takes it to a whole new level. Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is a creamy, cheesy, and subtly spiced dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall.

Reasons to Love this Recipe

The pumpkin not only adds a beautiful orange hue to the dish but also contributes a velvety texture and a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the sharp cheddar cheese.

• With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. The pumpkin flavor is subtle but unmistakably autumnal.
• Anyone of any age will love this creamy, cheesy dish.
• Can be served as a main dish or a side.
• Prepare it in advance and bake when ready to serve.

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound pasta (elbow macaroni or shells work well)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for about 1 minute to create a roux.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
5. Add the pumpkin puree and continue to whisk until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
9. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
10. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the crumbled bacon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
11. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

• Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor, but feel free to experiment with other types of cheese for different flavor profiles.
• Cook pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
• Simply omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative (for the dairy ingredients as well) to make this vegetarian or vegan.
• For extra texture, try adding some chopped pecans or walnuts to the breadcrumb topping.
• Experiment with different spices like cinnamon, cayenne, or sage to create your perfect fall flavor profile.

Comfort and a Celebration of Autumn Flavors

The creamy, cheesy pasta is complemented perfectly by the subtle sweetness of pumpkin and the savory crunch of the bacon-breadcrumb topping.

Serve this dish as a decadent main course, perhaps with a crisp green salad on the side to balance out the richness. Or, offer it as a unique and delicious side dish at your next potluck or Thanksgiving dinner. Either way, be prepared for recipe requests – this Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is sure to become a fall favorite!

Print