Easy Butternut Mac And Cheese

Excuse my French, but it has been FREEZING in Michigan this week. Winter apparently decided to show up. We’ve had a pretty tame winter so far, so no complaints, but jeeeeez louise it’s COLD.

And you know what I crave when it’s cold? MAC AND CHEESE!!! But I don’t eat dairy… so what’s a girl to do?! MAKE BUTTERNUT MAC AND CHEESE. OH OKAY.

So we all know that I have a ridiculous amount of butternut squash recipes on here, and I’m clearly obsessed, BUT it’s just so tasty and versatile! Am I right or am I right?! I’M RIGHT.

Okay, I know what you’re thinking, mac and cheese without cheese?! BUT WAIT, THERE IS CHEESE IN THIS. I used Daiya’s Shredded Cheddar, and holy cow was I shocked how delicious and actually cheesy that stuff is.

I swear they changed their recipe because I remember trying their fake cheese a couple of years ago, and it 100% didn’t melt right, but now it does!!! So if you’re dairy free like me, or vegan, or just want to try something without real cheese, check out Daiya products!

And if you’re one of the lucky ones and can eat cheese, then just use normal cheddar in this recipe! Ready for a creamy and delicious and all things good mac and cheese recipe?!

GOOD YO because it will warm your heart, soul, and stomach!

INGREDIENTS

• 12 oz Al Dente Bonnetti Pasta (or noodles of your choosing)
• 12 slices of bacon, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
• 1 shallot, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 1/4 cups dairy-free nut milk (or real milk if you aren’t dairy free)
• 1 (15 oz) can butternut squash puree* (or soup)
• 10 oz dairy-free shredded “cheddar cheese” (or real cheese if you aren’t dairy free)
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• optional garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

How to make Butternut Mac And Cheese

Step 1:

Cook pasta according to package instructions.

Step 2:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced bacon, then cook until brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 3:

Add garlic and shallot to the skillet with the bacon grease, then saute 2-3 minutes or until fragrant, stirring frequently. Whisk in flour and dried sage until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Next, gradually whisk in the milk and butternut squash puree, then bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, until reduced and thickened, about 4-6 minutes.

Step 4:

Stir in cooked pasta and cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper (add more to taste, if needed).

Step 5:

Top with bacon and chives, then enjoy!

KITCHEN EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Slotted spoon (for removing bacon)
• Paper towels (for draining bacon)
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Knife and cutting board
• Large mixing bowl (optional for mixing cheese and sauce)

WHAT TO EAT WITH THIS BUTTERNUT MAC AND CHEESE

I made Butternut Mac and Cheese the other night, trying to sneak in veggies without anyone noticing, but turns out, my kids loved it because of the flavor! I blended leftover roasted squash with cream cheese and baked it until golden. It felt more creamy, perfect with a side of Mediterranean Baked Potatoes.

I also added sauteed green beans with lemon, a kale and apple salad, and roasted chicken sausage to round it out. The kids asked for seconds, and my husband took leftovers for lunch. Total win for a weeknight dinner that felt a little special with my creativity.

FAQ

What is Butternut Mac and Cheese made of?

Butternut Mac and Cheese is made with pasta, bacon, garlic, shallots, milk, butternut squash puree, dairy-free cheese, and a blend of spices.

What does Butternut Mac and Cheese taste like?

It’s creamy with a hint of sweetness from the butternut squash. The bacon adds a smoky flavor.

Can I use regular cheese instead of dairy-free cheese?

Yes, you can use regular shredded cheddar cheese if you’re not dairy-free.

Can I make this without bacon?

Absolutely.

What kind of pasta can I use?

You can use any pasta you like.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers will last about 3 days in the fridge.

Can I freeze Butternut Mac and Cheese?

Yes, you can freeze it.

What can I serve with Butternut Mac and Cheese?

You can serve it with grilled chicken, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.

Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?

Definitely.