Halloween Mac and Cheese
A spooky and delicious mac and cheese recipe perfect for Halloween gatherings, blending creamy pumpkin goodness with cheesy flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces macaroni (elbow or fun shapes)
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup pumpkin, pureed
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the pumpkin puree, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to combine.
- Incorporate the cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until well coated.
- Transfer to a baking dish if desired and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives before serving.
Notes
Serve in hollowed-out pumpkin bowls for a festive presentation. This dish is versatile; consider adding your favorite mix-ins or toppings!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Halloween, mac and cheese, pumpkin, comfort food, festive recipe