Print

Creamy Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese Recipe with Butternut Squash Sauce Easy and Healthy

hidden veggie mac and cheese - featured image
Print Recipe

A creamy and healthy mac and cheese made with a velvety butternut squash sauce that sneaks in veggies without compromising flavor. Perfect for a quick, comforting family meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (450g) butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
  • 8 ounces (225g) elbow macaroni
  • 1 ½ cups (170g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup (240ml) milk, whole or 2% (unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free)
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons (16g) all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
  • ¼ cup (25g) Parmesan cheese, shredded
  • Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Place the peeled and cubed butternut squash in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10-12 minutes until tender. Drain well.
  2. Transfer the cooked squash to a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth, adding a splash of milk if needed. Set aside.
  3. In the same large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions (7-8 minutes for al dente). Drain and set aside.
  4. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture bubbles but does not brown.
  5. Slowly whisk in the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 4-5 minutes.
  6. Stir the pureed butternut squash into the thickened sauce. Remove from heat, then add shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Fold the drained macaroni into the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated.
  8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or extra cheese if desired.

Notes

If the sauce is too thick after adding cheese, stir in a splash of milk to loosen it. Avoid overcooking pasta to keep it firm. Use sharp cheddar for best melt and flavor. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter, milk, and cheese with vegan alternatives and add nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor. Frozen butternut squash can be used if thawed and drained. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 3-4 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, butternut squash, hidden veggies, creamy sauce, comfort food, healthy mac and cheese, easy dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/creamy-hidden-veggie-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-butternut-squash-sauce-easy-and-healthy/