Are you craving a comforting mac and cheese that's not only incredibly delicious but also completely dairy-free? Get ready to revolutionize your pasta game with this mind-blowing Pumpkin Mac Cheese recipe that proves healthy eating can be both indulgent and satisfying! Imagine a creamy, velvety sauce that's packed with nutrients, bursting with flavor, and so good you won't believe it's made without traditional cheese. Whether you're lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking to shake up your dinner routine, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz gluten-free macaroni
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add gluten-free macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, combine pumpkin puree and almond milk over medium heat. Whisk together until smooth and well integrated.
- Add nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pumpkin mixture. Stir continuously to blend all seasonings evenly.
- Reduce heat to low and continue stirring the sauce for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Add cooked macaroni to the sauce, gently folding and coating each pasta piece completely with the pumpkin cheese sauce.
- Let the mixture simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and pasta to absorb the sauce.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 2 minutes before serving. This will help the sauce set and become more creamy.
- Optional: Garnish with additional smoked paprika or chopped fresh herbs like parsley before serving.
Tips
- Choose high-quality gluten-free macaroni for the best texture and taste.
- Whisk the pumpkin and almond milk thoroughly to ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce.
- Adjust seasonings to taste - nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor that's key to this recipe.
- Don't overcook the pasta; aim for al dente to prevent mushiness.
- Use fresh, high-quality nutritional yeast for the most authentic cheese-like flavor.
- For extra creaminess, let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Experiment with additional herbs and spices to customize your flavor profile.
- If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a little more almond milk.
- For added nutrition, consider stirring in some sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
