Description
This One Pot Stove-Top Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting twist on the classic mac and cheese, perfect for fall. Featuring a rich pumpkin-infused cheese sauce with warm spices like nutmeg, paprika, and optional cayenne, this easy stovetop recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses for a hearty main course. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s ideal for a cozy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook pasta: In a large pot or deep skillet, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside for later use.
- Create the sauce base: Using the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Mix pumpkin sauce: Stir in the pumpkin puree, milk, salt, black pepper, ground nutmeg, paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Whisk thoroughly until you have a smooth mixture, and then bring it to a gentle simmer on medium-low heat.
- Add cheeses: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Return the cooked macaroni to the pot, stirring well to coat the pasta evenly with the pumpkin cheese sauce.
- Final warming: Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes on low heat to warm the pasta through and allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- You can use either canned or homemade pumpkin puree depending on availability.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of cream or cream cheese to the sauce.
- This recipe works well with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
- To add more texture and flavor, stir in cooked bacon, sautéed spinach, or roasted broccoli.
