Description
This Creamy Pumpkin Spice Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. With a rich and creamy pumpkin cheese sauce, it’s topped with crispy sage for an extra crunch and flavor. Perfect for fall!
Ingredients
8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups pumpkin puree
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh sage leaves
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
1. 1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. 2. In a large saucepan, combine the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, pumpkin pie spice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. 3. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
4. 4. In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and fry until crispy, about 1-2 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. 5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
6. 6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
7. 7. Serve hot, garnished with crispy sage leaves.
Notes
For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: pumpkin, mac and cheese, comfort food, fall recipe