Prepare to revolutionize your mac and cheese game with a tantalizing twist that'll make your taste buds dance! This Pumpkin Goat Cheese Macaroni isn't just another boring pasta dish - it's a creamy, autumnal dream that transforms the classic comfort food into a gourmet experience. Imagine velvety goat cheese melting into rich pumpkin sauce, coating perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, and topped with a crispy golden breadcrumb crust that adds an irresistible crunch. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a luxurious weeknight meal, this recipe promises to elevate your culinary skills and satisfy your comfort food cravings in one spectacular dish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, combine milk, pumpkin puree, garlic powder, and cinnamon. Whisk the mixture over medium heat until smooth and well combined, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the crumbled goat cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the pumpkin goat cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure each pasta piece is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the pasta.
- Place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and cool slightly.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh cracked pepper or chopped herbs if desired.
Tips
- For the creamiest sauce, use room temperature goat cheese which melts more smoothly.
- Choose a high-quality pumpkin puree for the best flavor - avoid pumpkin pie filling.
- Watch the broiler carefully when toasting breadcrumbs to prevent burning.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or sage to complement the pumpkin.
- Use freshly grated breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier topping.
- If the sauce seems too thick, thin it out with a little pasta water.
- For a protein boost, consider adding crispy pancetta or crumbled bacon on top.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 30mg
