Pumpkin Mac N Cheese

Pumpkin Mac N Cheese elevates a classic comfort dish with the rich, velvety flavor of pumpkin and a blend of sharp cheddar and nutty gruyere.

Aromatic garlic and sage add warmth, while cream cheese and whole milk create a silky, indulgent sauce – the perfect Pasta Recipe!

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Tossed with tender shell pasta and a hint of Dijon mustard, this dish is creamy, savory, and perfectly balanced, making it a cozy fall-inspired meal the whole family will love.

What Does Pumpkin Mac N Cheese Taste Like

Pumpkin mac and cheese has a creamy, savory and slightly sweet flavor from the pumpkin, which adds richness and depth to the cheesy pasta.

The natural sweetness of the pumpkin balances the sharpness of the cheese, creating a comforting, flavorful and slightly autumnal dish.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Mac n Cheese

• Creamy comfort: A rich blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and gruyere creates an irresistibly smooth sauce.
• Autumn-inspired flavor: Pumpkin and sage add subtle sweetness and warmth to the classic mac and cheese.
• Quick and simple: Ready in one pot, making it an easy weeknight or holiday side dish.
• Kid- and crowd-pleasing: Cheesy, creamy and perfectly seasoned for both kids and adults to enjoy.

This pumpkin mac n cheese combines cheesy indulgence with seasonal flavors for a cozy, satisfying twist on a family favorite.

A special thanks to Green Giant for this fall recipe.

What Goes with Pumpkin Mac n Cheese

This creamy, savory pumpkin mac n cheese pairs beautifully with sides and drinks that enhance its rich flavors:

• Roasted or steamed vegetables: Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or green beans add freshness and a slight crunch.
• Crispy bacon or pancetta: Adds a salty, smoky contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls: Perfect for scooping up every cheesy bite.
• Apple cider or light white wine: The slight sweetness and acidity balance the richness of the dish.
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette: Adds brightness and a crisp texture to round out the meal.

These pairings make pumpkin mac n cheese ideal for cozy dinners, fall gatherings or comforting weeknight meals.

Pumpkin Mac N Cheese Recipe

This Pumpkin Mac n Cheese blends creamy pumpkin, sharp cheddar and nutty gruyere with tender pasta for a rich, cozy and flavorful twist on a classic comfort dish.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 10

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

For Pumpkin Mac n Cheese, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Large pot: to boil the pasta
• Colander: to drain the pasta
• Large skillet or Dutch oven: to make the cheese and pumpkin sauce
• Wooden spoon or spatula: to stir the sauce and toss the pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons: for milk, butter, cheese, and seasonings
• Chef’s knife: to mince garlic and chop sage if fresh
• Cutting board: to prepare garlic and sage

These tools make it easy to create a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful pumpkin mac n cheese every time.

Ingredients

These ingredients come together to make a creamy and cheesy pumpkin mac n’ cheese with a hint of sage and a rich, savory flavor.

• shell pasta
• unsalted butter
• garlic
• sage
• cream cheese
• Green Giant 100% Pure Pumpkin
• whole milk
• sharp cheddar cheese
• gruyere cheese
• Dijon mustard
• salt
• black pepper

How To Make Pumpkin Mac N Cheese

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, about 8 minutes, then drain.

In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and sage and sauté 1–2 minutes until garlic is lightly browned. Stir in cream cheese and pumpkin, heating until the cream cheese melts and the mixture is combined.

Gradually stir in milk, cheddar, and gruyere. Add Dijon mustard, salt and pepper, and heat 3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and cheese is melted.

Fold in the cooked pasta and toss to coat.

More Mac and Cheese Recipes

• Macaroni and Cheese Casserole Recipe
• Fried Mac & Cheese Bites
• Yummy Gooey Homemade Mac and Cheese
• Gorgonzola & Pancetta Macaroni and Cheese
• Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
• Instant Pot Guinness Mac and Cheese
• Creative Mac and Cheese Recipes

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