Pumpkin Apple Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This Pumpkin Apple Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese offers a cozy twist on a classic comfort dish. Combining the subtle sweetness of pumpkin and apple with rich cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan creates a creamy, flavorful meal perfect for fall or any time you want a warm treat.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- 1 medium apple, peeled and diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin purée, diced apple, cheddar, mozzarella, and half of the parmesan. Mix thoroughly to create your cheese and pumpkin sauce.
- Step 3: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese and pumpkin sauce, stirring well to evenly coat all the noodles.
- Step 4: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the mac and cheese is bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
- Step 6: Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your comforting seasonal mac and cheese!
Tips & Variations
- Use a mix of pasta shapes like elbow, shells, or cavatappi for extra texture.
- For a richer sauce, add a splash of cream or milk to the pumpkin and cheese mixture before combining with pasta.
- Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to complement the pumpkin and apple flavors.
- Add crispy cooked bacon or sautéed onions for savory depth.
Storage
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin purée for this recipe?
Yes, canned pumpkin purée works perfectly and is the easiest option. Just be sure to use pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
What type of apple is best to use?
Choose a firm apple with a balance of sweet and tart, such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. This will add nice texture and brightness without overpowering the dish.
PrintPumpkin Apple Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese Recipe
A creamy and comforting Pumpkin Apple Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese combines the sweetness of pumpkin purée and fresh apple with a rich blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, baked to bubbly perfection for a cozy fall-inspired meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or your choice of pasta
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux and cook for about 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Pumpkin and Seasoning: Stir in pumpkin purée, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Combine well to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Remove the sauce from heat and gradually stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Apple: Add the cooked pasta and diced apple pieces to the cheese-pumpkin sauce gently folding to ensure an even coating.
- Transfer and Bake: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving warm for the best creamy texture and flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh pumpkin purée or canned 100% pumpkin purée for convenience.
- Choose a tart apple like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness of the pumpkin and cheese.
- You can customize the cheese blend based on preference, such as adding gouda or fontina.
- For a crispier top, sprinkle additional parmesan and breadcrumbs before baking.
- This dish pairs well with a light green salad to complement the richness.
Keywords: pumpkin mac and cheese, apple mac and cheese, three-cheese mac and cheese, fall recipes, creamy baked pasta, pumpkin recipes
