Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Baked Mac n Cheese featuring Gruyere and Butternut Squash! This creamy, cheesy delight takes the classic mac and cheese to a whole new level, combining the rich flavors of Gruyere cheese with the sweet, nutty goodness of butternut squash. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this dish not only satisfies your cravings but also adds a nutritious twist. With just 50 minutes of your time, you can create a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Are you ready to elevate your mac and cheese game? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add cubed butternut squash to the same pot. Drain pasta and squash together in a colander and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to create a smooth roux, ensuring no lumps form.
- Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 5-6 minutes.
- Remove sauce from heat. Stir in shredded Gruyere and cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- Add cooked macaroni and butternut squash to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure even coating.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crispy texture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook your elbow macaroni al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This will ensure a perfectly textured dish.
- Cheese Choices: While Gruyere and sharp cheddar are fantastic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for a different flavor profile.
- Nutmeg Nuance: Don’t skip the nutmeg! Just a pinch adds a warm, aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Breadcrumb Bliss: For an extra crispy topping, consider mixing in some grated parmesan with your breadcrumbs before sprinkling them on top.
- Resting Time: Allow the baked mac and cheese to rest for 5-10 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps the sauce set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this delicious mac and cheese with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every cheesy bite!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 477kcal
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 60mg
