Save One-Pot Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese: Hidden Veggie Twist A creamy, comforting mac and cheese with a silky butternut squash sauce, perfectly blending cheesy goodness and a boost of hidden veggies—all made in one pot for easy cleanup.
I love how this recipe sneaks in veggies that my family actually enjoys, making mac and cheese both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni or small pasta shells
- Vegetables: 2 cups (about 350 g) butternut squash, peeled and diced , 1 small carrot, peeled and diced , 1 small onion, diced , 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Dairy & Cheese: 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk , 1 cup (240 ml) water , 1 ½ cups (150 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese , ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese , 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter
- Seasonings: ½ tsp salt (or to taste) , ¼ tsp ground black pepper , ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional) , ½ tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and butternut squash. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Step 2:
- Pour in milk and water. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes until the squash and carrot are very tender.
- Step 3:
- Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture in the pot until smooth and creamy (or carefully transfer to a blender and return to the pot).
- Step 4:
- Stir in the uncooked pasta, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to maintain a simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently, until pasta is al dente and sauce has thickened (about 10 minutes). Add a splash more water or milk if needed.
- Step 5:
- Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot.
Save My family and I always gather around the table excited to enjoy this dish together, especially on chilly evenings.
Notes
Substitute sweet potato for butternut squash for a different flavor. Add a handful of spinach in the last 2 minutes of cooking for extra veggies. Pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted broccoli.
Required Tools
Large pot with lid, immersion blender or standard blender, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (dairy), cheese, and wheat (gluten from pasta). For allergies, use dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives, and gluten-free pasta as needed. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Save This mac and cheese is the perfect cozy meal that balances indulgence and nutrition in just one pot.
Recipe Help
- → Can I substitute other vegetables for butternut squash?
Yes, sweet potatoes work well as an alternative, offering a slightly different flavor and similar texture.
- → What is the best pasta shape for this dish?
Elbow macaroni or small pasta shells absorb the sauce nicely and cook evenly in one pot.
- → How can I make the sauce smoother?
Using an immersion blender to puree the cooked vegetables before adding pasta creates a creamy, silky sauce.
- → Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Yes, adding spinach during the last few minutes of cooking boosts nutrition without altering the creamy texture.
- → How do I adjust seasoning for taste?
Salt, pepper, nutmeg, and Dijon mustard can be adjusted to enhance the flavor according to preference.