A cozy and comforting one-pot pumpkin mac and cheese, perfect for fall weeknights or gatherings. This recipe delivers a creamy, savory sauce without being too sweet.
Author:purejoyalex
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:25 min
Total Time:35 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Dinner
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup chopped yellow onion (about 1 small onion)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
2 cups milk
8 ounces elbow macaroni
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon dried sage
4 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 ounces shredded Gruyere cheese
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
Stir in pumpkin purée, milk, macaroni, salt, pepper, nutmeg, paprika, and sage. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until macaroni is tender, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking.
Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar cheese and Gruyere cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
Serve immediately.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use a mix of cheeses like fontina or Monterey Jack.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of spice.
Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or fresh parsley before serving.