Butternut squash macaroni and cheese is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish perfect for a comforting meal. The combination of sweet butternut squash, gooey cheese, and tender macaroni creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This versatile dish can be easily customized to suit your preferences, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you're looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a special occasion side dish, this butternut squash macaroni and cheese is sure to impress.
In this article, we'll take you on a culinary journey with three delectable recipes that showcase the versatility of butternut squash macaroni and cheese. From a classic baked version to a lighter skillet variation, and a unique air fryer option, these recipes offer something for every taste and occasion. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let's embark on this cheesy adventure together!
MACARONI AND CHEESE WITH BUTTERNUT SQUASH
Ricotta and pureed Butternut squash add extra creaminess to this new Macaroni and Cheese-a favorite comfort-food.
Provided by Martha Stewart
Categories Food & Cooking Seasonal Recipes Fall Recipes Butternut Squash Recipes
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine squash, stock, and milk in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium; simmer until squash is tender when pierced with a fork, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat. Mash contents of saucepan; stir in nutmeg, cayenne, and salt, and season with black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add noodles; cook until al dente according to package instructions, about 8 minutes. Drain, and transfer to a large bowl; stir in squash mixture, cheddar, ricotta, and 2 tablespoons Parmesan.
- Lightly coat a 9-inch square baking dish (4 inches deep) with cooking spray. Transfer noodle mixture to dish. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, remaining 2 tablespoons Parmesan, and oil; sprinkle evenly over noodle mixture.
- Cover with foil, and bake 20 minutes. Remove foil, and continue baking until lightly browned and crisp on top, 30 to 40 minutes more. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 350 g, Cholesterol 18 g, Fat 6 g, Fiber 2 g, Protein 16 g, Sodium 505 g
BUTTERNUT SQUASH MACARONI AND CHEESE
This recipe is from Rachael Ray's 365 No Repeats cookbook. I adapted it a teeny-tiny bit. I also like to cook up a hot dog, cut it up and put it in my bowl of mac and cheese!
Provided by Queen of Harts
Categories Cheese
Time 30m
Yield 6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Heat a pot of water to boil for the pasta. Salt the water,then add the pasta and cook al dente, about 8 minutes.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a medium heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter. When the butter melts into the oil, add the thyme and grate the onion directly into the pot with a Microplane or grater. Cook the onions for a minute or two.
- Add the flour and cook with the onions a minute or two more.
- Whisk in the stock, then add the squash and cook until warmed through and smooth.
- Stir in the cream and bring to a bubble.
- Stir in the cheeses in a figure eight motion and season with salt, pepper and nutmeg. Taste to adjust seasonings.
- Drain the cooked pasta well and combine with the sauce. Serve.
MACARONI AND CHEESE (WITH BUTTERNUT SQUASH OR CAULIFLOWER)
Created by Jessica Seinfeld From the book Deceptively Delicious Jessica says, " I leave a box of store-bought macaroni and cheese out on the counter and the kids naturally assume ..."
Provided by Karen in MA
Categories Cheese
Time 10m
Yield 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain in a colander.
- While the macaroni is cooking, coat a large saucepan with cooking spray and heat over medium heat.
- Add the oil, then the flour, and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture resembles a thick paste but has not browned (1-2 minutes).
- Add the milk and cook, stirring every now and then, until the mixture begins to thicken (3 to 4 minutes).
- Add the vegetable puree, cheddar, cream cheese and seasonings and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Stir in the macaroni and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 529.1, Fat 32.8, SaturatedFat 18.8, Cholesterol 91.3, Sodium 745.5, Carbohydrate 35.9, Fiber 1.7, Sugar 3, Protein 22.8
BUTTERNUT SQUASH MACARONI AND CHEESE
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Combine squash, stock, and milk in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium; simmer until squash is tender when pierced with a fork, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat. Mash contents of saucepan; stir in nutmeg, cayenne, and salt, and season with black pepper. Stir to combine. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add noodles; cook until al dente according to package instructions, about 8 minutes. Drain, and transfer to a large bowl; stir in squash mixture, cheddar, ricotta, and 2 tablespoons Parmesan. Lightly coat a 9-inch square baking dish (4 inches deep) with cooking spray or coat with butter. Transfer noodle mixture to dish. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, remaining 2 tablespoons Parmesan, and oil; sprinkle evenly over noodle mixture. Cover with foil, and bake 20 minutes. Remove foil, and continue baking until lightly browned and crisp on top, 20 to 40 minutes more. Serve immediately.
Tips:
- Choose the right squash: Look for butternut squash that is firm and has a deep, orange color. Avoid squash that is soft or has blemishes.
- Roast the squash before using it: Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness and flavor. You can roast the squash in the oven or on a grill.
- Use a good quality cheese: The cheese is one of the most important ingredients in macaroni and cheese, so it's important to use a good quality cheese. I recommend using a sharp cheddar cheese or a combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
- Don't overcook the macaroni: The macaroni should be cooked al dente, or slightly firm to the bite. Overcooked macaroni will be mushy and unpleasant.
- Add some vegetables: Adding some vegetables to your macaroni and cheese is a great way to make it more nutritious and flavorful. Some good vegetables to add include broccoli, cauliflower, and peas.
- Top it with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers: Topping your macaroni and cheese with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers gives it a nice crispy texture. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley to the topping.
Conclusion:
Butternut squash macaroni and cheese is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family meal. It's easy to make and can be customized to your liking. With a few simple tips, you can make a macaroni and cheese that is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
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