Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

October 12, 2024 by Elizabeth

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Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food we all know and love. By blending the natural sweetness of butternut squash with creamy cheeses and a touch of Greek yogurt, this dish offers a velvety smooth sauce that feels indulgent but comes packed with nutrients. The butternut squash not only gives the sauce its rich, creamy texture but also adds a boost of vitamins and antioxidants, making it a healthier alternative to traditional mac and cheese. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it with added kale for a nutritious boost or keep it simple and cheesy, this dish brings the best of both health and indulgence to your table.

Ingredients:

4 cups (about 560g) peeled and cubed butternut squash (about 1 large or 2 small squash, or 1 lb 4 oz)
1 ¼ cups (300ml) vegetable broth or chicken broth (low sodium)

1 ¼ cups (300ml) milk (whole or 2%)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound (454g) uncooked small or medium pasta shells (or any shape)

1–2 cups (70–140g) roughly chopped kale, stems discarded (optional)
⅓ cup (80g) plain Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Small pinch of ground nutmeg
2 cups (225g) shredded cheese (Gruyère or sharp white cheddar recommended)

Optional topping: ⅓ cup (30g) breadcrumbs
Optional topping: fresh thyme leaves and/or extra freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

Prepare the butternut squash sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the butternut squash, broth, milk, and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork. Set aside.
Preheat the oven: While the squash simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C).
Cook the pasta: Boil water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). If you are adding kale, toss it in during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Drain the pasta and kale, then set aside.

Blend the squash sauce: Pour the cooked butternut squash mixture (including the liquid) into a blender or food processor. Add the Greek yogurt, salt, pepper, and nutmeg, and blend until smooth and creamy.
Combine sauce and cheese: Pour the smooth squash sauce into a large mixing bowl and stir in the shredded cheese. It’s okay if the cheese doesn’t fully melt—this will happen when baking. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
Mix pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta (and kale, if using) into the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated. The mixture may seem slightly liquid, but the pasta will absorb some of the moisture as it bakes.

Assemble and bake: Pour the pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish or any oven-safe skillet. Top with breadcrumbs and an extra sprinkle of cheese, if desired. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, or until bubbly on the edges.
Serve: Remove from the oven and top with fresh thyme leaves or extra black pepper before serving, if desired. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy creation!

Cooking Tips:

Make sure to roast the squash until it’s very tender, as this will help achieve a smoother sauce.
You can swap Greek yogurt with sour cream for a tangier flavor, or a dairy-free alternative for a vegan-friendly option.
The kale adds a nutritious boost and a nice texture contrast. You can also substitute it with spinach or omit it altogether.

Nutritional Benefits: This mac and cheese is a comforting dish with a healthier twist. The butternut squash provides a rich source of vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Adding kale boosts the fiber and vitamin K content, while Greek yogurt adds a dose of protein and probiotics. Overall, this recipe offers a more balanced take on traditional mac and cheese, with less saturated fat and more nutrients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

It’s a creamy, comforting dish that feels indulgent yet has wholesome ingredients like butternut squash and kale.

The rich, cheesy flavor pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of roasted squash, making it both kid-friendly and adult-approved.
Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings, this mac and cheese offers a delicious and healthier alternative to the classic version.

Dietary Information:

Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians if made with vegetable broth.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs for those with gluten sensitivities.
Lower Fat: Opt for low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version.

Why This Recipe Works: The combination of butternut squash and cheese creates a velvety sauce with natural sweetness, providing depth and flavor to the dish. Blending the squash with Greek yogurt ensures a creamy texture without relying on heavy cream or excessive butter, making this mac and cheese more nutritious while still satisfying. The added touch of kale provides a boost of greens, rounding out the dish.

Conclusion: Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition, satisfying your craving for creamy pasta while sneaking in some extra veggies. With its rich flavor, easy preparation, and healthier ingredients, it’s a versatile dish you can feel good about serving any day of the week.

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