As the crisp fall air rolls in, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, creamy bowl of mac and cheese — especially when it’s kissed with cozy pumpkin flavor. This one pot pumpkin mac and cheese is rich, creamy, and full of seasonal goodness, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pot!
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dinner, Pasta | 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings | ~420 calories per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh sage or thyme (optional, for garnish)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot, cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Create the creamy base: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the milk and pumpkin puree until smooth.
- Season it up: Add the garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Cheesy goodness: Lower the heat and slowly stir in the cheddar and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta back into the pot and stir until every noodle is coated in that luscious pumpkin-cheese sauce.
- Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with fresh herbs and an extra touch of Parmesan before serving warm.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Cheese tip: Sharp cheddar brings the best flavor, but feel free to mix in mozzarella for extra creaminess.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of chili flakes or cayenne for a subtle heat.
Recipe Variations
- Protein boost: Stir in shredded chicken, turkey sausage, or beef bacon for extra heartiness.
- Dairy-light version: Use low-fat milk and part-skim cheese for a lighter twist.
- Veggie-packed: Add spinach, roasted broccoli, or caramelized onions for a colorful and nutritious addition.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy dish pairs perfectly with:
- A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans
- A warm loaf of crusty bread for scooping up every cheesy bite
Conclusion
This stove-top pumpkin mac and cheese is the ultimate cozy, one-pot meal — perfect for fall nights with family or friends. Serve it fresh, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top, and enjoy the creamy, seasonal comfort in every bite.