Description
Pumpkin Chili Macaroni and Cheese is a delightful fusion of creamy mac and cheese with zesty chili flavors and the earthy sweetness of pumpkin. This comforting dish not only warms you up on chilly nights but also dazzles your guests with its vibrant orange hue. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz macaroni pasta
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (100% pure)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and sauté chopped onions until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Stir in pumpkin puree, milk, and chili powder; whisk until smooth and simmer for five minutes.
- Gradually mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Optionally add a splash of cream for richness.
- Fold cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 240g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45mg