Go Back Email Link
photo of a bowl full of creamy pumpkin mac and cheese
Print

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Easy pumpkin mac and cheese! Can be made whole wheat or gluten-free.
Course Side
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 375 grams whole grain, gluten-free or grain-free macaroni (about 3 cups)
  • 1 tablespoon (14 grams) butter
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons (12 grams) white whole wheat, all-purpose flour, a 1-to-1 Gluten-free Baking Mix or 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons cassava flour
  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk plus more as needed
  • 1 cup (240 grams) pumpkin puree
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) aged cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheeses - I like using about 2 ounces Pecorino Romano) grated or thinly sliced

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Generously salt the water, add the macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 2 minutes.
  • Add the milk and pumpkin puree and whisk until smooth. Continue cooking, whisking frequently, until the sauce has thickened.
  • Add the garlic powder, salt and cheese. Reduce the heat to low and stir until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
  • Add the drained macaroni and stir until evenly coated. If needed, add a splash of milk to thin the sauce. Taste and add additional salt if needed. Serve hot.

Notes

For gluten-free, make sure to use GF flour and GF noodles.
This stores really well in the fridge. To enjoy as leftovers, add a splash of milk while you’re heating it up to loosen up the sauce.