This delightful dish, pumpkin macaroni and cheese, has been captivating the taste buds of many food enthusiasts around the world. Made with creamy macaroni and sweet pumpkin puree, it combines the warmth of fall flavors with the comfort of a classic comfort food. Whether you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes or a lover of autumn spices, this pumpkin macaroni and cheese recipe is sure to impress.

Pumpkin macaroni and cheese is a twist on the traditional macaroni and cheese, infusing the creamy cheese sauce with the natural sweetness of pumpkin. The vibrant orange color of the pumpkin puree adds a festive touch to any meal, making it a perfect choice for holiday gatherings or a cozy dinner for two. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time.

To start, gather the following ingredients:

– 1 cup of pumpkin puree
– 2 cups of whole milk
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 cup of cooked macaroni
– 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons of melted butter

Now, let’s dive into the preparation steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, combine the milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, coriander, thyme, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
3. Gradually whisk in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
4. Add the pumpkin puree and stir until well combined.
5. Stir in the cooked macaroni and mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
6. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
7. In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
9. Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serve this delicious pumpkin macaroni and cheese with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the perfect blend of creamy pasta, rich cheese, and the warm, comforting taste of pumpkin, all in one dish. Happy cooking!