Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
This butternut squash mac and cheese produces the same comfort as regular mac and cheese but produces a completely unique taste. It's endlessly creamy and incredibly flavor. There's no doubt that your family will love it!
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 326kcal
Ingredients
- 4 ½ cups peeled and cubed butternut squash about 1 large squash
- 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- ⅓ cup Greek yogurt
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 ½ cups kale roughly chopped with stems discarded
- 1 pound penne pasta or any shape/variety
- 1 cup shredded cheese optional
Instructions
- Combine the butternut squash, broth, milk, garlic, ground mustard, salt, and pepper in a medium sauce pan over medium-high beat. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and allow to simmer for 20 minutes. You want the butternut squash very tender, it should easily fall apart with a fork. Set aside.
- Start the pasta: I usually do this while the butternut squash is simmering. Bring enough water for your pasta to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and the pasta. Cook the pasta as directed. Add the kale, if adding, and cook for a minute. Drain the pasta and the kale. Set aside.
- Make the sauce: Add the butternut squash mixture into a blender. Add the yogurt. Place the lid on the top and blend until smooth. Pour into a large bowl and stir in the cheese, if using. Taste the sauce and add more garlic/salt/pepper, if needed. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Make Ahead & Freezing Instructions: Pasta stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Chicken Broth: The broth provides so much flavor. If needed, you can substitute vegetable broth.
- Milk: Any unflavored milk can be used. I often use oat milk.
- Yogurt: Any unflavored milk can be used. I normally use a dairy-free version.
- Pasta: This recipe works best with a small type pasta like penne, elbows or bowties.
- Kale: Feel free to omit completely.
Nutrition
Calories: 326kcal | Carbohydrates: 55g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 418mg | Potassium: 541mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 8922IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 191mg | Iron: 2mg
