Pumpkin 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
Scale
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
