Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Name: Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed; 1 pound elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

This cozy pasta dish brings the best of fall flavors to your family dinner table.

By Recipes By Nani· 🌍 American· October 9, 2026

recipesbynani.com

Prep

15 minutes

Cook

30 minutes

Total

45 minutes

Serves

When the leaves start to change colors, I always crave something warm and comforting. This butternut squash mac and cheese is the perfect way to get those seasonal flavors into a classic family favorite that everyone loves.

The secret is roasting the squash until it is tender and sweet before blending it into the cheese sauce. It adds a beautiful color and a wonderful richness without needing any extra heavy ingredients.

🧺 Ingredients

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
1 pound elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

👩‍🍳Instructions

1
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2
Place the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet, toss with a little oil, and roast for about 25 minutes until soft.
3
While the squash roasts, cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions, then drain well.
4
Once the squash is done, mash it or blend it until smooth.
5
In the same pot used for the pasta, melt the butter over medium heat.
6
Stir in the milk, mashed squash, and both cheeses until the sauce is smooth and melted.
7
Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
8
Fold the cooked macaroni back into the sauce until every noodle is coated.
9
Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.

💡 Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat it in the microwave with a splash of extra milk to keep the sauce creamy. This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp side salad.

#Vegetarian #Comfort Food #Fall Recipes #Pasta #Dinner

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