As the crisp autumn air rolls in and leaves crunch underfoot, there’s a pull towards cozying up with something warm and comforting. I found myself in that very mood one afternoon, flipping through my recipe collection, searching for the quintessential fall dish. That’s when I realized: nothing quite compares to a creamy, dreamy bowl of Pumpkin Mac & Cheese.
This isn’t just any mac and cheese; it’s elevated with a rich pumpkin cheese sauce, infused with warm spices and topped with a crunchy layer of brown butter sage breadcrumbs. The result? An enchanting blend of savory and sweet that captures the essence of the season. Whether you’re serving it as a show-stopping side at Thanksgiving or as a regular cozy dinner delight, this dish promises to bring smiles to every table. Trust me, once you dig into its velvety texture and crispy topping, you’ll never want your fall meals to be without it. Ready to indulge? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Why is Creamy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese special?
Comforting: This dish brings warmth to chilly evenings, making it the ultimate fall comfort food.
Elevated Flavor: The rich pumpkin sauce, seasoned with warm spices, creates a unique twist on classic mac and cheese.
Crispy Topping: The brown butter sage breadcrumbs offer a delightful crunch that complements the creamy base beautifully.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as a Thanksgiving side or a cozy main dish any day of the week.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its delightful flavor and appealing texture are sure to impress family and friends, making it a favorite at gatherings.
Creamy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Ingredients
• The perfect blend of flavors awaits!
For the Pasta
- DeLallo Shellbows – This pasta shape holds the cheese sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is creamy and satisfying.
For the Cheese Sauce
- Canned Pumpkin – Adds a luscious creaminess and subtle sweetness; fresh pumpkin can be used if preferred.
- Cheddar Cheese – Provides sharpness and depth; use freshly grated to avoid clumping.
- Gruyère Cheese – Brings a nutty flavor that enhances richness; melts wonderfully.
- Parmesan Cheese – Introduces savory notes; perfect for adding a cheesy finish to your dish.
- Butter – Essential for the roux and enriching the flavor of the breadcrumbs; brown it for extra depth.
- Flour – A thickener for the cheese sauce; ensures the perfect creamy consistency.
- Whole Milk – Creates a rich base for the sauce, contributing to its velvety texture.
- Heavy Cream – Enhances the creaminess; feel free to substitute with a non-dairy alternative if needed.
For the Seasoning
- Nutmeg – Just a pinch adds warmth and is a classic spice for fall dishes.
- Paprika – Gives lovely color and a subtle smokiness; adjust to taste.
- Salt – Enhances the flavors of all ingredients; don’t forget to taste as you go!
For the Topping
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Provides a light and crispy texture; pairs perfectly with the rich mac and cheese.
- Fresh Sage – Delivers an aromatic touch and elevates the fall flavor profile; use finely chopped for best results.
With these ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a memorable creamy pumpkin mac and cheese that will surely become a beloved favorite!
How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
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Prep the Pasta: Boil the DeLallo Shellbows in salted water until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside, ready to be enveloped in that delicious cheese sauce.
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Make the Roux: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, cooking it until it turns slightly golden, which should take about 2-3 minutes, to achieve that rich flavor.
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Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Then, fold in the pumpkin, nutmeg, paprika, and all three cheeses until melted and creamy.
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Combine: Gently fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until every piece is generously coated in that velvety goodness. This is where the comfort truly begins!
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Make Breadcrumb Topping: In a separate pan, brown the butter with finely chopped sage until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Stir in the panko breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan, mixing until evenly coated and golden.
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Bake: Transfer the creamy pumpkin mac and cheese into a baking dish. Top generously with the breadcrumb mixture and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Optional: Garnish with extra sage leaves or a sprinkle of paprika before serving for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Pumpkin Mac & Cheese?
As the leaves change and the aroma of fall spices fills the air, it’s time to create a cozy meal that warms the heart and soul.
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Roasted Brussel Sprouts: The slight bitterness complements the rich, creamy mac and cheese beautifully, adding a nutritious crunch.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness enhances the depth of flavors in your dish, while adding a vibrant pop of color to the plate.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the creamy richness, offering a delightful contrast in every bite.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, this classic addition provides a satisfying crunch. Each bite offers a comforting buttery flavor that mingles perfectly with the savory mac and cheese.
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Cranberry Sauce: A hint of tartness from homemade cranberry sauce cuts through the richness, creating a lovely harmony of flavors—perfect for a Thanksgiving spread.
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Apple Cider: This warm, spiced drink adds the right balance to the meal, enhancing the fall theme with every cozy sip.
Indulge in these pairings to craft a memorable dining experience filled with warmth, flavor, and heartfelt moments!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese with Brown Butter Sage Breadcrumbs are a meal prep dream come true! You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the pasta up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in separate airtight containers to maintain freshness. The breadcrumb topping can also be made ahead; just keep it at room temperature for a crisp texture when you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, combine the pasta and cheese sauce, transfer to your baking dish, sprinkle with the breadcrumb mix, and bake until bubbly and golden—about 20-25 minutes. This way, you’ll have a stunning, cozy dish ready to enjoy with minimal effort during those busy weeknights!
Storage Tips for Creamy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures your creamy pumpkin mac and cheese retains its rich texture and delightful flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, approximately 25-30 minutes. This keeps the topping crunchy and the cheese creamy.
Room Temperature: Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before storing. Never leave it out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Creamy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Variations
Get ready to personalize your dish and add your own magic touches to this fall favorite!
- Butternut Squash: Swap pumpkin for butternut squash puree for a subtly sweeter and equally creamy alternative.
- Gouda Cheese: Replace Gruyère with smoked gouda to introduce a delightful smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor and texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a warm, fiery twist.
- Herbed Delight: Introduce fresh thyme or rosemary along with sage for an aromatic herbaceous flavor that elevates your dish.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans with your panko topping for added texture and a nutty flavor contrast.
- Creamy Vegan Option: Use cashew cream and nutritional yeast instead of dairy for a rich, vegan-friendly version that still feels indulgent.
- Truffle Oil Drizzle: For an upscale touch, finish with a drizzle of truffle oil before serving to add an earthy richness and gourmet flair.
Expert Tips for Creamy Pumpkin Mac & Cheese
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Fresh Cheese Only: Always opt for freshly grated cheese to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Pre-shredded cheese can lead to clumps.
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Perfect Pasta: Cook the DeLallo Shellbows just to al dente; they will absorb some sauce and become perfect in texture once baked.
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Customize Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste. A little extra nutmeg can enhance the autumnal flavor of Creamy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese.
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Breadcrumb Bliss: Ensure the panko breadcrumbs are evenly coated in brown butter and sage for an irresistible crunch atop your dish.
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Controlled Heat: Don’t rush the roux! Cooking it to a golden brown helps deepen the flavor, preventing a raw flour taste.
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Bake for Bubbles: Watch for bubbling edges and a golden crust, which indicates that the dish is perfectly baked and ready to serve.
Creamy Pumpkin Mac & Cheese with Brown Butter Sage Breadcrumbs Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and creaminess, I recommend using canned pumpkin puree. It’s convenient and consistently smooth. If you choose to go the fresh route, select a sugar pumpkin or pie pumpkin, which is sweeter and has a better texture. Avoid jack-o’-lantern pumpkins, as they aren’t as flavorful.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers are best stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I often place parchment paper between layers to keep the crunchy topping intact. When you’re ready to revisit your creamy pumpkin mac and cheese, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, which helps maintain that luscious texture.
Can I freeze creamy pumpkin mac and cheese?
Yes, you absolutely can! To freeze, prepare the dish but do not bake it. Instead, transfer it to a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
What if my cheese sauce isn’t creamy enough?
Very! If your cheese sauce isn’t as creamy as you’d like, it could be due to using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. To fix it, try adding a splash more milk or cream and whisk until well-mixed. Incorporating more cheese slowly while whisking can also help achieve that velvety texture you’re aiming for.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! To make your creamy pumpkin mac and cheese gluten-free, simply substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta and use certified gluten-free flour for the roux. The flavors will remain just as rich and satisfying, ensuring everyone can join in on the cozy goodness!
Can I serve this dish to my pets?
It’s wise to be cautious! While pumpkin is a healthy treat for dogs, you should avoid serving them the mac and cheese itself due to the dairy and spices. If you’d like to share, plain, cooked pumpkin (no spices or sauces) is a safer option for your furry friend.
Creamy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese with Savory Brown Butter Breadcrumbs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil the DeLallo Shellbows in salted water until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, cooking until slightly golden, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Fold in the pumpkin, nutmeg, paprika, and all three cheeses until melted and creamy.
- Gently fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until every piece is generously coated.
- In a separate pan, brown the butter with finely chopped sage until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Stir in the panko breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan, mixing until evenly coated and golden.
- Transfer the creamy pumpkin mac and cheese into a baking dish. Top generously with the breadcrumb mixture and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.