Nothing beats a comforting, creamy bowl of Garlic and Herb Baked Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese on a tranquil night in. This nutritious meal is an improved twist on the classic macaroni dish with butternut squash added for extra flavor. It’s easy to prepare – just toss all your ingredients together then bake it quickly in the oven!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- For this heavenly concoction, you’ll require two cups of peeled and diced butternut squash.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- Unlock the intense savory flavor of your dishes with a generous ¼ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, infusing them with an umami-richness that will wow any foodie.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Bread crumbs, for topping
- For a vibrant finishing touch, add freshly-chopped parsley.
Instructions:
- Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds? Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare yourself for an unforgettable culinary journey!
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni to perfection, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Let the pasta simmer as you steam the butternut squash to a delightful texture of tenderness and juiciness. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a saucepan over medium heat, and allow the butter to slowly melt into an enticing liquid gold.
- Delicately sizzle the minced garlic in the saucepan for 1-2 minutes, or until it emits its tantalizing aroma.
- Fold in the flour and simmer for 1-2 minutes until the resulting blend is velvety and bubbling.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth.
- Excite your palate with this delicious one-pot dish, overflowing with the delectable combination of butternut squash, cheddar cheese and Parmesan. Breath in the tantalizing aromas of thyme and rosemary as they add subtle notes to every bite! Generously season it with salt and pepper for an extra punch of flavor that will leave you wanting more! Stir until everything becomes creamy and blended together—you won’t be able to resist its unforgettable charm!
- Gently fold the tender macaroni into the luscious cheese sauce until every piece is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish.
- Add a touch of crunch with bread crumbs by sprinkling them atop the mac and cheese.
- Preheat the oven, then place the dish inside. Bake for 20-25 minutes until you can see golden brown crumbs and melted cheese that’s ready to bubble!
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
This recipe serves 6-8 people. To make a fulfilling meal, serve it along with some roasted veggies or fresh leafy greens.
Enjoy your delicious and healthier Garlic and Herb Baked Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese!