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–+ servings
Pumpkin Apple Three Cheese Mac and Cheese

Pumpkin Apple Three Cheese Mac and Cheese for Cozy Comfort

Indulge in this Pumpkin Apple Three Cheese Mac and Cheese that's rich, creamy, and perfect for cozy fall evenings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Uncooked Elbow Macaroni Pasta Gluten-free pasta may be used.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1 cup Pumpkin Puree Canned or homemade.
  • 1 cup Gruyere Cheese Can substitute with Emmental.
  • 1/2 cup Gorgonzola Cheese Substitute with blue cheese if desired.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can be used for a bolder taste.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half can work for a lighter feel.
For the Apple Mixture
  • 2 cups Apples (cut into 1-inch chunks) Use varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
  • 1 tablespoon Finely Chopped Rosemary Thyme can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon Reduce or omit for milder taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg Reduce or omit for milder taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Butter can also be used.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Bread Crumbs Consider gluten-free options.
  • 1/2 cup Additional Cheese for Topping Mix in any leftover cheese.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Large Skillet
  • Baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water over high heat. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni pasta and cook until al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over low heat, simmer the heavy cream. Gradually whisk in Gruyere, Gorgonzola, Parmesan, and pumpkin puree until smooth.
  3. Sauté the Apples: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add apple chunks, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the sautéed apples into pasta, then fold in the cheese sauce ensuring every piece is coated.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil, pour in the pasta mixture, top with breadcrumbs, additional cheese, and rosemary. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. This mac and cheese is best enjoyed warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Consider making ahead for flavors to meld or use different cheeses for unique flavors.

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