If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, health, and indulgence, Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese with Olive Oil Spray is your answer. Imagine the creamy goodness of mac and cheese paired with the natural sweetness of butternut squash—it’s a dish that warms your heart and nourishes your soul. Let’s dive into this recipe and discover why it’s destined to become your go-to meal.

Why Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is a Game-Changer

In a world filled with heavy comfort foods, finding a healthier yet equally satisfying option can feel like striking gold. This dish checks all the boxes. It’s packed with flavor, boasts a velvety texture, and sneaks in wholesome ingredients without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe hits the mark.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

Ingredient	Amount
Olive oil spray	For greasing
Kosher salt	To taste
Butternut squash, cubed	1 pound
Whole wheat elbow pasta	10 ounces
Low sodium vegetable broth	1 ½ cups, divided
Onion powder	½ teaspoon
Garlic powder	½ teaspoon
Panko breadcrumbs	¼ cup
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese	2 tablespoons
Unsalted butter	1 tablespoon
Shallot, minced	1 medium
All-purpose flour	¼ cup
Skim milk	2 cups
Shredded Gruyere cheese	½ cup
Shredded Cheddar cheese	½ cup
Chopped chives (optional)	For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly creamy and crispy dish.

1. Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spray a 9” x 11” glass baking dish with olive oil spray to ensure easy cleanup later. Set the dish aside.

2. Cook the Butternut Squash

In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the cubed butternut squash. Cook for 5–6 minutes or until fork-tender. Transfer the squash to a blender using a slotted spoon.

3. Boil the Pasta

Using the same pot of boiling water, cook the whole wheat elbow pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.

4. Make the Butternut Squash Puree

Add ½ cup of vegetable broth, onion powder, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and a dash of black pepper to the blender with the cooked squash. Blend until smooth and creamy.

5. Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Set aside.

6. Create the Cheese Sauce

Melt the butter in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and sauté for 2 minutes. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the shallots, stirring to combine. Cook for another minute.

7. Add Liquids to the Sauce

Gradually whisk in the remaining 1 cup of vegetable broth and 2 cups of skim milk. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, whisking frequently to avoid lumps.

8. Incorporate the Cheese

Remove the sauce from heat and whisk in the shredded Gruyere cheese, shredded Cheddar cheese, and pureed butternut squash. Season with 1 ½ teaspoons of salt and black pepper to taste.

9. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Pour the sauce over the cooked pasta in the pot. Gently mix to coat every piece of pasta evenly.

10. Assemble and Bake

Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the surface.

11. Bake and Broil

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Switch the oven to high broil and broil for an additional 2–3 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown.

12. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped chives over the top (if desired) for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

Health Benefits of Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

1. Nutrient-Rich Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is a powerhouse of vitamins A and C, promoting eye health and a strong immune system. Its natural sweetness adds depth to the dish.

2. Whole Wheat Pasta

Whole wheat pasta brings fiber and complex carbohydrates, making this meal more filling and beneficial for digestion.

3. Reduced Fat Content

Using skim milk, a modest amount of butter, and low-fat cheeses ensures you enjoy the creamy texture without unnecessary calories.

Tips for the Perfect Dish

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh butternut squash for the best flavor and texture.
• Use a High-Quality Blender: A good blender ensures a silky smooth squash puree.
• Customize the Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Fontina or Mozzarella for a unique twist.
• Don’t Skip the Broil: Those extra minutes under the broiler give you a crunchy breadcrumb topping that’s irresistible.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It’s also perfect as a standalone dish for cozy nights in.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the whole wheat pasta with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.

2. Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Absolutely. Frozen squash works well, but make sure to cook it thoroughly before blending.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.

5. What can I use instead of Gruyere cheese?

Swiss cheese or a mild Gouda can be excellent substitutes for Gruyere.

6. Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor, and they won’t even notice the added vegetables.

Conclusion

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese with Olive Oil Spray isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. This recipe lets you enjoy the comfort of classic mac and cheese while embracing healthier choices. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.

Ready to make it? Gather your ingredients and savor every bite of this wholesome creation.

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