Print

Creamy Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese Recipe with Butternut Squash Sauce Easy and Healthy

hidden veggie mac and cheese - featured image
Print Recipe

A creamy, dreamy mac and cheese with a hidden butternut squash sauce that adds natural sweetness, creaminess, and extra nutrients without compromising flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (300g) butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (roasted or steamed)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) unsweetened almond milk or regular milk
  • 1 ½ cups (150g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ¼ cup (25g) Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons (16g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
  • 8 ounces (225g) elbow macaroni or small shell pasta
  • Water and salt for boiling pasta

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225g) of elbow macaroni or small shell pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
  2. If not already roasted, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss peeled and cubed butternut squash with a little olive oil and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and golden. Alternatively, steam for about 15 minutes until soft. Let cool slightly.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter. Whisk in 2 tablespoons (16g) all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
  4. Slowly pour in 1 cup (240 ml) almond milk or regular milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the roasted butternut squash puree (blend until smooth) and stir well. Cook for 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens.
  5. Add ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, a pinch of nutmeg (optional), salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
  6. Lower heat to medium-low and gradually stir in 1 ½ cups (150g) shredded sharp cheddar and ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until melted and sauce is creamy and smooth.
  7. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and stir until coated. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a splash at a time to loosen.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Optionally, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
  9. Serve warm immediately.

Notes

Save ½ cup pasta water before draining to loosen sauce if needed. Use sharp cheddar and fresh Parmesan for best melt and flavor. Blend squash until very smooth for creamy texture. Keep sauce on low heat and stir often to prevent sticking or curdling. For a crunchy topping, add toasted breadcrumbs and broil 3-4 minutes. Leftovers store well in fridge up to 3 days; reheat gently with splash of milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, butternut squash, hidden veggies, creamy sauce, comfort food, healthy mac and cheese, easy dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://evabake.com/creamy-hidden-veggie-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-butternut-squash-sauce-easy-and-healthy/