Ingredients for Pumpkin Mac & Cheese

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this rich and creamy Pumpkin Pasta:

For the Pasta

• 1 pound (450 g) elbow macaroni (or any short pasta of choice)

• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling pasta water)

For the Pumpkin Cheese Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 3 cups whole milk (warm)

• 1 cup canned pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (or substitute with mozzarella for milder flavor)

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Topping

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish