Print

Pumpkin Sausage Mac & Cheese

Pumpkin Sausage Mac & Cheese
Print Recipe

Pumpkin Sausage Mac & Cheese is a cozy fall-inspired comfort food that blends creamy cheddar cheese sauce with savory Italian sausage and smooth pumpkin puree. This one-pot meal offers rich flavors enhanced by warming spices and is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, delivering a delicious balance of sweet and savory in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni

Meat

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)

Dairy

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1/2 cup pureed pumpkin (canned or fresh)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dry Ingredients & Spices

  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for GF)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside, leaving some rendered fat for flavor.
  3. Prepare the Roux: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to form a smooth roux that will thicken the sauce.
  4. Make the Cheese Sauce: Gradually pour in the milk and cream while whisking constantly. Once the mixture thickens, stir in the pureed pumpkin, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, nutmeg, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
  5. Combine Everything: Return the cooked macaroni and browned sausage to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly so every piece is well coated.
  6. Bake or Serve: Serve immediately from the stove, or for a crispy top, transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle extra shredded cheese and breadcrumbs on top, then broil until golden and bubbly, about 3-5 minutes.

Notes

  • Use quality Italian sausage for the best flavor and richness.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; keep it al dente to prevent mushiness when combined with the sauce.
  • Freshly shred the cheddar cheese for optimal melt and flavor.
  • Add pumpkin puree gradually to avoid clumping and achieve a smooth sauce.
  • Broiling with breadcrumbs creates a delicious crispy crust that contrasts with the creamy interior.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pumpkin, Sausage, Mac & Cheese, Fall recipe, Comfort food, One-pot meal, Cheesy pasta, Italian sausage, Seasonal, Creamy

Find it online: https://eazyum.com/pumpkin-sausage-mac-cheese/