Cheesy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese – Creamy Fall Comfort

If you love classic mac and cheese but want something a little different and healthier, butternut squash mac and cheese is a great choice. It combines creamy, cheesy sauce with the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash. This makes the dish both comforting and packed with nutrients.

This post may contain affiliate links.

Butternut squash adds flavor, creaminess, and extra vitamins while keeping the dish rich and satisfying. You get the warm, cheesy taste you crave with a boost of good-for-you ingredients.

This recipe is simple and flexible, perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking to try something new, this twist on mac and cheese might just become your new favorite.

How to Make Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

You’ll need a few key ingredients to get the sweet, creamy flavor just right. Cooking the squash until tender and blending it smoothly helps create a rich, cheesy sauce. Using a mix of cheeses and the right pasta texture will make your dish extra delicious.

Ingredients

1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
12 ounces elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional for extra creaminess)
Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25–30 minutes, until tender and lightly caramelized.

Cook the pasta according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to make a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes, whisking constantly. Slowly add the milk and broth, whisking until smooth and slightly thickened.

Transfer the roasted squash to a blender or food processor, add the milk mixture, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Return the sauce to the pot, stir in the cheeses until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir until well coated.

Breadcrumb Topping Ingredients

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions for Topping

After mixing the pasta with the creamy butternut squash cheese sauce, transfer everything into a lightly greased baking dish.

In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan, smoked paprika, and parsley. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated.

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crispy.

Let it cool slightly before serving so the sauce thickens a bit under the crunchy topping.

Tips for Perfect Creaminess

Use low heat when melting cheese to avoid clumping or grainy texture.

Adding yogurt or milk in small amounts helps maintain a smooth sauce.

Don’t overcook your pasta; slightly firm noodles absorb the sauce best.

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it. If too thin, cook it a little longer while stirring.

Make sure the squash is well-pureed with no lumps. This creates a silky sauce that blends nicely with the cheese.

These small changes keep your mac and cheese smooth and creamy every time.

Creative Variations and Serving Ideas

You can easily change up butternut squash mac and cheese to fit different diets and taste preferences. There are ways to make it friendly for kids, and you can also find great foods to serve alongside it. This makes the dish even more fun and versatile.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Options

To make a gluten-free version, swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa. For the crispy topping, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts instead of traditional bread crumbs.

For a vegan version, replace dairy cheese with plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast. Use a dairy-free milk like almond, soy, or oat milk to create the creamy sauce. You can also add blends of cooked cashews or coconut cream for extra richness.

You still get a smooth, flavorful sauce by blending roasted butternut squash with these non-dairy ingredients. This keeps the dish comforting while fitting your dietary needs.

Kid-Friendly Twists

To get kids to enjoy this meal, boost the sweetness of the squash by roasting it with a little cinnamon or maple syrup before adding it to the sauce. This makes the dish taste a bit like a treat without extra sugar.

Add fun shapes of pasta or mix in some mild veggies like peas or corn. Mild cheddar or mozzarella cheese works well here since kids usually prefer less sharp cheese.

If your kids are picky, try topping the mac and cheese with a crunchy layer of crushed crackers or a light sprinkle of parmesan to encourage them to try it.

Tasty Pairings

Butternut squash mac and cheese pairs well with fresh, crisp vegetables to balance its creamy texture. Try serving it with steamed green beans or a simple arugula salad tossed in lemon juice.

For protein, grilled chicken or roasted turkey are good choices. Their mild flavors complement the richness without overpowering it.

If you want to add some spice, a side of roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with chili flakes or a few pickled vegetables can bring a nice contrast to your meal.

Follow my Fall Comfort Food board on Pinterest.