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Quick Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese with Crispy Sage

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A creamy, comforting mac and cheese made with butternut squash for natural sweetness and topped with crispy sage. This quick weeknight dinner comes together in under 30 minutes and is a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated if possible
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for crispy sage)
  • 10–12 fresh sage leaves
  • A pinch of flaky sea salt

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a rolling boil. Cube the butternut squash into ½-inch pieces.
  2. Add the macaroni and cubed squash to the boiling water. Cook for 8 minutes until pasta is al dente and squash is fork-tender.
  3. Before draining, reserve ¼ cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and squash, then return them to the pot.
  4. Add the butter, milk, garlic powder, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the pot. Mash the squash with a potato masher or fork until mostly smooth. Stir until butter melts and sauce begins to form.
  5. Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. In a small skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves in a single layer and cook for 30-45 seconds per side until bright green and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
  7. Serve the mac and cheese immediately in bowls, topped with the crispy sage leaves.

Notes

For best results, grate your own cheese from a block to avoid graininess. The reserved pasta water is key for adjusting sauce consistency. Fresh sage is recommended for the crispy topping; dried sage will not provide the same texture. The nutmeg adds warmth and depth—do not skip it.

Nutrition

Keywords: butternut squash mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese, crispy sage, weeknight dinner, comfort food

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