Today, we bring you a delicious and healthy twist on the classic mac and cheese recipe – Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner for two or a comforting family meal. The best part? It’s loaded with nutrients from the butternut squash, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
To start off, let’s take a look at the ingredients you will need:
– 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 8 oz elbow macaroni
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 cups low-fat milk
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Boil the butternut squash cubes in salted water until they are tender. Drain them and puree them in a blender until smooth.
3. Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste. Cook for 2 minutes.
5. Gradually stir in the milk and whisk until the sauce is smooth.
6. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan and mix well.
7. Stir in the butternut squash puree and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
8. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir gently to combine.
9. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven, and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Voila! Your Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is ready to be devoured. As mentioned earlier, this recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is a great source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, making it the perfect vegetable to include in your diet.
In conclusion, Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is a healthy twist on a classic comfort food recipe. It’s perfect for those looking to indulge in a delicious meal while also eating healthily. Be sure to try this recipe and impress your family and friends with a mouth-watering dish!
