Pumpkin Sausage Mac & Cheese
A cozy fall twist on the classic mac and cheese, this dish blends creamy pumpkin puree, savory sausage, and rich cheeses into a comforting, flavor-packed casserole.
Ingredients
- Elbow Macaroni or Short Pasta: 12 ounces
- Italian Sausage: 1 pound, casings removed
- Pumpkin Puree: 1 cup
- Whole Milk: 2 cups
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Breadcrumbs (optional): 1/2 cup
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Combine Ingredients: Cook pasta until al dente, drain. Brown sausage in a skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In the same pot, melt butter and sauté garlic. Whisk in flour to make a roux.
- Assemble the Dish: Gradually whisk in milk, then add pumpkin, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in cheeses until smooth.
- Cook to Perfection: Fold in pasta and sausage. Transfer to dish and top with breadcrumbs if using.
- Finishing Touches: Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and texture.
- Add cayenne or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Try smoked cheese for a deeper, autumnal flavor.
Find it online: https://dishmio.com/pumpkin-sausage-mac-cheese/