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Easy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe

Easy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is a creamy 30-minute stovetop pasta.Pumpkin puree, cheddar, Parmesan, and evaporated milk create the sauce.Mustard and nutmeg add savory warmth and balance the pumpkin.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Course Main Course, Dinner
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound pasta shells or elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 can 12 ounces evaporated milk
  • 1 can 15 ounces pure pumpkin puree
  • 2 teaspoons prepared yellow mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt to taste
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Finely chopped fresh chives for serving

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just shy of al dente according to the package directions.
  • Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  • Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
  • Pour in the evaporated milk and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
  • Whisk in the pumpkin puree, yellow mustard, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
  • Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the grated sharp cheddar and Parmesan, stirring after each addition until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
  • Season the sauce with salt to taste.
  • Add the drained pasta and gently stir until every shell is coated in the pumpkin cheese sauce.
  • If your Easy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is thicker than you'd like, gradually stir in some reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.
  • Taste and adjust with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately with chopped fresh chives, if desired.

Notes

For an even creamier sauce, add a small splash of additional evaporated milk before serving.
You can replace the sharp cheddar with medium cheddar for a milder, more kid-friendly flavor. A combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack also melts beautifully.
For additional texture, top individual servings with toasted breadcrumbs, pumpkin seeds, or extra Parmesan.
Serve this creamy pumpkin mac and cheese alongside roasted broccoli, green beans, a crisp salad, or roasted chicken for a more substantial meal.