Tired of the same old mac and cheese? Get ready to revolutionize your comfort food game with this innovative Butternut Squash Mac Cheese that adds a sneaky veggie twist and an irresistible rice cracker crunch! This recipe transforms the classic mac and cheese into a gourmet experience that's not just delicious, but also packs a nutritional punch that will make both kids and adults ask for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked macaroni
- 1 cup butternut squash puree
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup crushed rice crackers
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, butternut squash puree, milk, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly until ingredients are well incorporated.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, stirring gently to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the pasta.
- Transfer the macaroni and squash mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top of the pasta to create a complete cheese coverage.
- In a separate small bowl, crush the rice crackers into fine, uniform crumbs using the back of a spoon or a rolling pin.
- Evenly distribute the crushed rice crackers over the cheese layer, creating a crispy topping.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh cracked pepper or herbs if desired.
Tips
- For extra smoothness, ensure your butternut squash puree is well-blended and free of lumps.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting consistency and flavor.
- For a crispier topping, toast the rice cracker crumbs in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes before sprinkling over the mac and cheese.
- If you want to add more depth, consider mixing in a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika with your seasonings.
- Let the dish rest after baking to allow the cheese to set and make serving easier.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure you use gluten-free rice crackers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
