Butternut Squash Mac And Cheese: Ultimate Comfort Food Delight

Butternut squash mac and cheese holds a special place in my heart. It all began on a chilly autumn afternoon when I first attempted to combine the creamy richness of mac and cheese with the earthy sweetness of roasted butternut squash. The result was a comforting, hearty dish that quickly became a family favorite.

There’s something magical about how the flavors meld together, creating a symphony of taste and texture that is both satisfying and nourishing. The butternut squash mac and cheese not only warms the soul but also brings back cherished memories of family gatherings and laughter around the dinner table.

Cooking has always been about more than just feeding the body; it’s a way of nurturing the spirit and connecting with loved ones. This dish epitomizes that connection, transforming simple ingredients into a meal that fosters togetherness. I invite you to experience the joy of creating and sharing this delightful butternut squash mac and cheese with your own family and friends.

Butternut Squash Mac And Cheese

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in creamy comfort with our Butternut Squash Mac And Cheese recipe. Learn how to make this delicious twist on a classic dish today!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 medium to large butternut squash (680 g to 1 kg), halved
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) onion powder
• 1 pound (450 g) beef sausage
• 5 cups (1.2 L) water
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) fine salt, to taste
• 4 ounces (115 g) cream cheese, cubed
• 8 ounces (225 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup (60 g) finely grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

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Instructions

1. To roast the squash: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) for preheating. Cover a large baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleaning up easier. Use a spoon to remove the seeds from the butternut squash (they won’t be used in this dish). Coat the cut surfaces of the squash with olive oil and place them face down on the baking sheet.
2. Cook the squash in the oven until a fork can easily pierce through the flesh, which should take about 40 to 60 minutes. Once it’s cool enough to touch, peel away the skin and discard it. Use a potato masher to mash the squash; it doesn’t need to be completely smooth. You’ll need roughly 2 cups of mashed squash for this dish (any leftover can be frozen for future use). Set the squash aside, and refrigerate or freeze until needed.
3. To make the mac and cheese: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion powders, cooking for 2 to 4 minutes while stirring frequently until the oil becomes aromatic and small brown flecks appear. Add the beef sausage and cook until browned. Toss in the dry pasta, making sure it gets coated in the oil.
4. Pour in the water and a pinch of salt, then add 2 cups of mashed butternut squash. Cover the pot and bring it to a rapid boil on high heat. Once boiling, take off the lid and set a timer for 8 minutes.
5. Continue cooking, stirring once in a while, until the timer ends. Do not drain the liquid. Mix in the cream cheese until it has melted and the pasta is just tender (be careful when tasting, as it will be hot), roughly 4 to 5 more minutes. Lower the heat as needed to prevent burning while maintaining a slow simmer.
6. On low heat, incorporate the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Take the pot off the heat.
7. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt if necessary (I typically add an extra ¼ teaspoon). Serve the pasta in bowls, garnishing with extra grated Parmesan if you like. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.

Notes

• Ensure the butternut squash is roasted until tender for a creamy mac and cheese texture.
• Choose a high-quality sharp cheddar for a richer and more flavorful dish.
• Slowly stir in cheeses to avoid clumping and achieve a smooth consistency; adjust seasoning to taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking, Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 15g

Keywords: butternut squash, mac and cheese, creamy pasta, baked squash, cheesy pasta, sausage and cheese

Butternut Squash Mac And Cheese: A Comforting Classic

Fundamentals

At its core, butternut squash mac and cheese is a combination of roasted butternut squash and a classic cheese sauce, harmoniously blended with tender pasta. The key ingredients include a medium to large butternut squash, beef sausage, cream cheese, and a mix of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese. This dish takes the traditional mac and cheese and elevates it with the sweet, nutty flavor of butternut squash.

Preparation/setup

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Halve the butternut squash and remove the seeds. Coat the squash with olive oil and place it cut-side down on the baking sheet. Roast until tender, then mash it, leaving some texture. This preparation step infuses the dish with a deep, roasted flavor that is essential to its charm.

Crafting The Perfect Butternut Squash Mac And Cheese

Technique

To achieve the creamy texture that defines a great butternut squash mac and cheese, focus on the cheese sauce. Begin by sautéing garlic and onion powders in vegetable oil until aromatic. Brown the beef sausage, then incorporate dry pasta, ensuring it absorbs the flavorful oil. Add water and mashed squash, bringing the mixture to a rapid boil. This method ensures the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the squash’s sweetness.

Tips/tricks

For a truly silky sauce, stir in cream cheese until fully melted. Gradually add cheddar and Parmesan, stirring constantly to prevent clumping. Maintaining a low heat during this process helps achieve a smooth consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt if needed. Remember, the balance of flavors is key to perfecting butternut squash mac and cheese.

Enhancing Your Butternut Squash Mac And Cheese

Perfecting results

Mastering this dish involves attention to detail. Ensure the pasta is cooked to al dente before mixing in the cheese. This retains a slight bite, offering a satisfying texture against the creamy sauce. For added depth, consider incorporating a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper. These subtle spices can enhance the overall flavor profile of your butternut squash mac and cheese.

Troubleshooting/variations

If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency. For those seeking a vegetarian option, simply omit the beef sausage. Alternatively, explore creativity by adding sautéed spinach or roasted mushrooms for an earthy twist. These variations keep the dish versatile and adaptable to different dietary preferences.

Serving and Storing Butternut Squash Mac And Cheese

Serving/presentation

Serve the butternut squash mac and cheese in bowls, garnished with extra grated Parmesan for a touch of elegance. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp, green salad or crusty bread, making for a well-rounded meal. The vibrant color and creamy texture make it a visually appealing centerpiece on any dining table.

Pairings/storage

Butternut squash mac and cheese pairs well with dishes that complement its richness. Consider trying sweet and spicy honey pepper chicken for a delightful contrast. Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if necessary to restore creaminess.

Conclusion

Butternut squash mac and cheese seamlessly combines comfort and flavor, offering a dish that is both nourishing and delightful. Its versatility allows for personalization, making it suitable for various occasions. The recipe’s straightforward approach ensures even novice cooks can achieve success, while its rich, creamy texture delivers a satisfying dining experience. Explore the potential of this dish and savor the joy it brings to your table.

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