Save One-Pot Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese Hidden Veggie Twist A creamy comforting mac and cheese with a silky butternut squash sauce perfectly blending cheesy goodness and a boost of hidden veggies all made in one pot for easy cleanup.
This comforting recipe quickly became a family favorite I always enjoy how it sneaks in extra vegetables without sacrificing creaminess or flavor
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni or small pasta shells
- Vegetables: 2 cups (about 350 g) butternut squash peeled and diced 1 small carrot peeled and diced 1 small onion diced 2 cloves garlic minced
- Dairy & Cheese: 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk 1 cup (240 ml) water 1 ½ cups (150 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter
- Seasonings: ½ tsp salt (or to taste) ¼ tsp ground black pepper ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional) ½ tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large pot melt butter over medium heat Add onion carrot and butternut squash Sauté for 5 7 minutes until vegetables begin to soften Add garlic and cook 1 minute more
- Step 2:
- Pour in milk and water Bring to a simmer cover and cook for 10 12 minutes until the squash and carrot are very tender
- Step 3:
- Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture in the pot until smooth and creamy (or carefully transfer to a blender and return to the pot)
- Step 4:
- Stir in the uncooked pasta salt pepper nutmeg and Dijon mustard Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to maintain a simmer Cook uncovered stirring frequently until pasta is al dente and sauce has thickened (about 10 minutes) Add a splash more water or milk if needed
- Step 5:
- Remove from heat Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth Adjust seasoning to taste Serve hot
Save This recipe always brings smiles to the dinner table especially when family members discover the hidden veggies quietly blended in
Notes
Substitute sweet potato for butternut squash for a different flavor For extra veggies add a handful of spinach in the last 2 minutes of cooking For a gluten free version use gluten free pasta Pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted broccoli
Required Tools
Large pot with lid Immersion blender or standard blender Wooden spoon or spatula Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains milk (dairy) cheese and wheat (gluten from pasta) For allergies use dairy free cheese and milk alternatives and gluten free pasta as needed Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens
Save This simple meal combines comfort and nutrition perfect for weeknight dinners
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute butternut squash with another vegetable?
Yes, sweet potatoes work well as a substitute, providing a different yet complementary sweetness and texture.
- → What pasta types are best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni or small pasta shells are ideal since they hold the creamy sauce and cook evenly.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta varieties to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste or texture.
- → Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Adding spinach during the last minutes of cooking is a great way to include extra greens without altering the sauce consistency.
- → What tools are needed to prepare this dish effectively?
A large pot with a lid, an immersion or standard blender, and wooden spoon or spatula are essential for smooth cooking and blending.