Name: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound butternut squash (about 16 oz cubed or half of a medium squash); 2 teaspoons olive oil; 2 cups oat milk (or regular milk of choice), plus more to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard; 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 10 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or vegan cheese substitute); 16 oz cavatappi pasta

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Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is a wholesome twist on the classic comfort dish. The roasted squash blends into a creamy sauce that’s both flavorful and nutritious, pairing beautifully with sharp cheddar cheese and tender pasta. It’s the perfect balance of cozy, cheesy indulgence and hidden veggies—great for family dinners or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy and cheesy with a natural sweetness from roasted squash
A healthier take on traditional mac and cheese
Easily made vegetarian or vegan with cheese substitutes
Kid-friendly while still packed with veggies
Comforting enough for dinner yet simple enough for a weeknight meal

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound butternut squash (about half of a small/medium squash or 16 oz cubed squash)
2 teaspoons olive oil
2 cups oat milk (or regular milk of choice), plus more to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or vegan cheese substitute)
16 oz cavatappi pasta

Directions

Roast the butternut squash
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- For cubed squash: Toss cubes with olive oil and spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast 30–45 minutes until tender.
- For halved squash: Cut in half, remove seeds, drizzle with olive oil, place cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and roast 30–45 minutes.
Cook the pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water.
- Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Make the squash puree
- Allow roasted squash to cool slightly, then transfer to a blender.
- Add oat milk and blend until smooth and creamy.
Prepare the sauce
- Pour the squash puree into a large pot over medium-low heat.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper.
Combine with pasta and cheese
- Add cooked pasta and shredded cheese to the pot.
- Stir until the pasta is coated and the cheese has melted into the sauce.
- Adjust consistency with extra oat milk if needed.
Serve
- Garnish with parsley, extra cheese, or both. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour

Variations

Vegan option: Use plant-based cheese and keep oat milk.
Gluten-free: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta.
Extra veggies: Add spinach, peas, or broccoli before mixing with pasta.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Baked mac and cheese: Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and cheese, and broil until golden.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Freeze cooled portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Does butternut squash make mac and cheese sweet?

It adds a mild sweetness that balances well with savory cheese.

Can I use frozen squash?

Yes, frozen cubed squash works well and saves prep time.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but Gruyère, mozzarella, or vegan cheese substitutes also work.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, simply use oat milk (or another plant-based milk) and vegan cheese.

Do I have to roast the squash?

Roasting enhances flavor, but steaming or boiling will also work if you’re short on time.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine before serving.

How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?

Add more oat milk or a splash of pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild flavor and creamy texture make it appealing to children.

Can I bake the finished dish?

Yes, top with breadcrumbs and cheese, then bake or broil for a crispy topping.

What pasta shape works best?

Cavatappi is excellent, but elbow macaroni, penne, or shells also work well.

Conclusion

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is the ultimate cozy comfort food with a healthy twist. Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, it’s a dish that satisfies both kids and adults alike. Whether served fresh off the stove or baked with a golden topping, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Maggie