Introduction

As the crisp autumn air settles in and leaves begin to turn golden, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting meal to embrace the season. Enter the One-Pan Cheesy Comfort Mac & Pumpkin – a delightful fusion that not only warms your belly but also envelops your senses in a cozy embrace. This dish beautifully marries the creamy, cheesy goodness of classic macaroni and cheese with the subtle sweetness and vibrant color of pumpkin.

Jump to Recipe

Perfect for chilly evenings spent indoors, this recipe is a breeze to prepare and requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights or those lazy weekends when all you want to do is snuggle up on the couch. Whether you’re a pumpkin spice aficionado or just looking for a new twist on a beloved classic, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a staple in your autumn dining repertoire. So grab your favorite cozy throw, pour yourself a cup of tea, and let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe!

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet or a deep pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
1. Add the elbow macaroni, pumpkin puree, broth, and milk to the pan. Stir everything together until well combined.
1. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
1. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
1. Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
1. If you’d like a crunchy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumbs and the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the macaroni.
1. Turn on the broiler in your oven and place the skillet under it for 2-3 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning!
1. Remove from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 25 min | Servings: 4

Key Ingredients

Pasta: 2 cups elbow macaroni or any pasta of your choice.
Pumpkin: 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (or fresh roasted and pureed pumpkin).
Cheese: 2 cups shredded cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend for that gooey texture).
Milk: 2 cups milk (whole, almond, or oat milk for a dairy-free option).
Butter: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for richness.
Onion: 1 small onion, finely chopped for flavor.
Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced for an aromatic kick.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth: 2 cups for added depth of flavor.
Seasonings: 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
Breadcrumbs: ½ cup panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping (optional).
Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or rosemary for garnish (optional).

These ingredients come together to create a cozy, creamy dish that’s perfect for warming up on chilly nights!

Baking Process for One-Pan Cheesy Comfort Mac & Pumpkin

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your dish bakes evenly and thoroughly.
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients including elbow macaroni, canned pumpkin puree, cheese (like sharp cheddar and mozzarella), milk or cream, garlic, onion powder, and your favorite seasonings (such as nutmeg, salt, and pepper).
Cook the Pasta: In a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, bring generous salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it until al dente, about 2-3 minutes less than the package directions. You want it slightly firm since it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add a splash of olive oil or a pat of butter and sauté any aromatic ingredients (like diced onions or minced garlic) until fragrant and slightly translucent. Stir in the pumpkin puree, followed by the milk or cream, and mix until well combined.
Combine with Cheese: Gradually stir in the cheese, allowing it to melt into a creamy sauce. Continue stirring until everything is well integrated, then add your seasonings. Taste and adjust as needed.
Mix in the Pasta: Once the cheese sauce is creamy and smooth, fold in the cooked macaroni, ensuring that every piece is well coated with the delicious pumpkin cheese mixture.
Top with More Cheese: Sprinkle an additional layer of cheese over the top of the macaroni mixture for that glorious, melty finish.
Bake the Dish: Transfer your skillet to the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top, and the edges start to crisp up nicely.
Finishing Touches: Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes to set up. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for an extra touch of flavor.
Serve and Enjoy: Dish out your One-Pan Cheesy Comfort Mac & Pumpkin, and enjoy it warm, savoring every cozy bite of this delicious fall-inspired dish!

This simple baking process allows you to create a comforting mac and cheese with the added richness of pumpkin, making it the perfect meal for cozy nights in. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Fresh Green Salad: Pair your One-Pan Cheesy Comfort Mac & Pumpkin with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The refreshing crunch of the salad complements the creaminess of the mac and adds a nutritious balance.
Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread for a perfect comforting meal. The buttery, garlicky flavors pair beautifully with the cheesy pasta and pumpkin, making it an indulgent treat.
Roasted Vegetables: For an additional dose of veggies, include a side of roasted seasonal vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or zucchini. The caramelization enhances their natural sweetness and complements the savory dish.
Apple Cider: This mac and pumpkin dish is ideal for cozying up on a chilly night. Enjoy it with a warm mug of apple cider sprinkled with cinnamon for a sweet and spiced drink that enhances the comfort food experience.
Herb Tossed Croutons: Add texture with homemade or store-bought croutons tossed in olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs. They make for a delightful crunch when sprinkled on top of your cheesy mac.
Grated Cheese: Offer additional grated cheese like sharp cheddar or Parmesan on the side for those who want to elevate their mac and pumpkin experience. A sprinkle just before serving adds an extra layer of creaminess.
Cold Brew Coffee or Tea: For a cozy beverage pairing, opt for a cold brew coffee or herbal tea. The smooth flavors serve to balance the richness of the dish, keeping your taste buds refreshed.
Spiced Pumpkin Muffins: To continue the pumpkin theme, consider serving your meal with a warm pumpkin muffin or two. They make for a perfect starter or dessert to round off the evening with comfort.

With these serving suggestions, your One-Pan Cheesy Comfort Mac & Pumpkin will become a cherished meal that not only satisfies but warms the heart!

Conclusion

There you have it—a delightful and creamy One-Pan Cheesy Comfort Mac & Pumpkin that’s perfect for those cozy nights in. This dish not only warms you up but also brings a comforting blend of flavors that celebrates the best of fall. The richness of the pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness while the gooey cheese provides that satisfying indulgence we all crave during the colder months.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and convenience. With minimal cleanup thanks to the one-pan method, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the cozy atmosphere of your home. Plus, it’s hugely versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite extras like crispy bacon, sautéed spinach, or even some extra spices for a kick.

Next time you’re in search of a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, look no further than this One-Pan Cheesy Comfort Mac & Pumpkin. It’s bound to become a staple in your fall and winter cooking repertoire. So gather your loved ones, cozy up, and dig into this deliciously comforting meal. Enjoy!