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Easy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe

Easy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is a creamy 30-minute stovetop pasta.Pumpkin puree is combined with cheddar, Parmesan, milk, and warm nutmeg.Toss with pasta and finish with fresh chives for an easy fall dinner.

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Prep Time 10 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound pasta shells or elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 12-ounce can evaporated milk
  • 1 15-ounce can 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
  • Reserved pasta cooking water as needed

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.
  • Add the pasta shells or macaroni and cook until just shy of al dente according to the package directions.
  • Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  • While the pasta cooks, 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 cheddar and Parmesan, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
  • Season the pumpkin cheese sauce lightly with salt.
  • Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet. Stir gently until every piece is thoroughly coated in the sauce.
  • If the Easy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.
  • Taste and season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  • Serve immediately, topped with finely chopped fresh chives if desired.

Notes

Shell pasta works particularly well because the curved shapes capture plenty of creamy pumpkin cheese sauce, but elbow macaroni, cavatappi, or another short pasta can be substituted.
For additional texture, top individual portions with toasted breadcrumbs, pumpkin seeds, or crispy fried onions.
Fresh sage can complement the pumpkin and nutmeg beautifully. Add a small amount to the butter before preparing the sauce for a more aromatic fall flavor.