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Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese – Ultra Comforting, Velvety and Family-Favorite Dinner

Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of classic comfort food and wholesome ingredients. Sweet, tender butternut squash melts into a silky cheese sauce, creating a rich and creamy mac and cheese that feels indulgent while sneaking in extra vegetables. This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, cozy weekends, and family meals. The squash adds natural creaminess and a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with sharp cheddar cheeses, while nutmeg and garlic elevate the flavor without overpowering it. If you’re looking for a mac and cheese that’s comforting, flavorful, and a little more nourishing, this one delivers every time.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 16 oz medium shell pasta
Butternut Squash Sauce
  • 1 lb butternut squash peeled and cubed
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
Cheese Sauce Base
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Cheese
  • 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 4 oz sharp white cheddar cheese shredded
  • These ingredients create a sauce that is velvety cheesy, slightly sweet, and deeply comforting.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium saucepan
  • Blender or immersion blender
  • Colander
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta
Step 1:
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Step 2:
  1. Add the shell pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
Step 3:
  1. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Butternut Squash
Step 4:
  1. In a medium saucepan, add the cubed butternut squash, garlic, and vegetable broth.
Step 5:
  1. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 12–15 minutes until the squash is very tender.
Step 6:
  1. Transfer the squash and broth to a blender and blend until completely smooth. Set aside.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce
Step 7:
  1. In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Step 8:
  1. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Step 9:
  1. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Step 10:
  1. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 11:
  1. Stir in the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
Step 12:
  1. Add the blended butternut squash purée and stir until smooth and combined.
Step 13:
  1. Reduce heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar and white cheddar cheese.
Step 14:
  1. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
  2. Combine Everything
Step 15:
  1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce.
Step 16:
  1. Gently stir until all pasta is evenly coated.
Step 17:
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 18:
  1. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave
Add a splash of milk to restore creaminess
🥄 Variations
Extra cheesy: Add more cheddar or mozzarella-style cheese
Protein boost: Stir in cooked chicken or chickpeas
Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour
Dairy-light: Reduce cheese slightly and add more squash purée
Each variation keeps the dish comforting, flexible, and satisfying.
❓ 10 FAQs
Does it taste like squash?
Mild and slightly sweet, not overpowering.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, very popular with kids.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, reheat gently with milk.
Is it healthy?
More nutrient-rich than classic mac and cheese.
Can I freeze it?
Best refrigerated, but freezing works short-term.
Why use nutmeg?
It enhances creaminess without strong flavor.
Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, cook until very soft.
Does the sauce stay creamy?
Yes, especially when reheated gently.
Can I bake it?
Yes, top with breadcrumbs and bake briefly.
What pairs well with this?
Salad or roasted vegetables.
🏁 Conclusion
Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is comfort food at its finest—rich, velvety, and deeply satisfying with a wholesome twist. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table and keeps them coming back for seconds.
Once you try it, it may just replace your classic mac and cheese.