Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese with Bacon

Creamy, comforting, and packed with a subtle sweetness from butternut squash, this Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese with Bacon is the ultimate twist on a classic favorite. The velvety cheese sauce, enriched with sharp cheddar and Gruyere, pairs perfectly with tender elbow macaroni and smoky, crispy turkey bacon. It’s a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will quickly become a family favorite for weeknights or special gatherings.

The Upside of Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese with Bacon

Butternut squash adds a natural sweetness and vibrant color to your traditional mac and cheese, all while sneaking in some extra nutrients. It’s a wonderful way to elevate this comfort dish without relying on heavy creams or artificial ingredients. The combination of sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheeses brings depth and richness, while the turkey bacon adds a smoky crunch that perfectly complements the creamy sauce. Plus, using elbow macaroni creates the ideal bite-sized pasta that holds onto every bit of cheesy goodness.

This dish is versatile, too! It can be dressed up for a holiday dinner or enjoyed as a cozy weeknight meal. Adding a crispy breadcrumb topping with olive oil gives it that irresistible golden crust that takes this Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese with Bacon over the top.

Gather These Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Tools of the Trade

• Large pot – for boiling the elbow macaroni.
• Medium saucepan – for cooking the butternut squash and preparing the cheese sauce.
• Blender or immersion blender – to puree the cooked butternut squash until smooth.
• Mixing bowl – for combining breadcrumbs with olive oil.
• Baking dish – to assemble and bake the mac & cheese with the breadcrumb topping.
• Wooden spoon or whisk – for stirring the cheese sauce.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to get your spices and liquids just right.

Mastering Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese with Bacon: How-To

Step 1: Prep the Pasta and Butternut Squash

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Meanwhile, peel and cube the butternut squash into 1-inch pieces. Place the cubes in a medium saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the squash is fork-tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and transfer the cooked squash to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns lightly golden and bubbly—this removes the raw flour taste.

Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and allow it to thicken slightly, around 3-4 minutes.

Next, stir in the pureed butternut squash, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

Step 3: Add the Cheeses

Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually fold in the shredded sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheeses. Stir until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a luscious, creamy texture.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese and squash sauce, stirring gently to coat every piece of pasta evenly. Then fold in the crumbled turkey bacon, distributing the smoky flavor throughout the dish.

Step 5: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

In a small mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil until the crumbs are evenly coated. This will help the topping crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese sauce is bubbling around the edges.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly, making it even more satisfying.

For an exciting side, consider pairing this dish with the Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Potatoes, which complement the cheesy flavors beautifully.

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

• Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the cheese sauce for a warm, autumnal flavor.
• Incorporate roasted sage or thyme leaves to introduce herbal notes that pair well with butternut squash.
• Swap turkey bacon with diced pancetta or a plant-based bacon alternative for different tastes and textures.
• Mix in roasted chestnuts or toasted pecans for added crunch and festive flair.

Things That Go Wrong

• The sauce is grainy or lumpy – This usually happens if the roux isn’t cooked long enough or milk is added too quickly. Whisk continuously and add milk slowly to avoid lumps.
• The mac and cheese is too watery – Ensure the butternut squash is well-drained before pureeing and don’t skip simmering the sauce to thicken before adding cheese.
• The topping burns before the dish is heated through – Use a light hand with the olive oil and keep an eye on the oven. Cover loosely with foil if browning too fast.
• The pasta becomes mushy – Cook pasta al dente and avoid overbaking. The pasta will continue to cook slightly in the oven.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

This Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese with Bacon stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

Freezing is also an option. Freeze the baked mac and cheese in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven as described above.

For quick reheating, individual portions can be microwaved, but the texture will be best when reheated in the oven to preserve the crispy topping.

FAQ

Can I substitute the butternut squash with another vegetable?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes or pumpkin can be great alternatives, offering a similar sweetness and creamy texture. Just make sure to cook and puree them before adding to the sauce.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap out the milk for unsweetened almond or oat milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Keep in mind that the flavor will be different but still delicious.

What can I use instead of turkey bacon?

If you prefer, you can use cooked chicken sausage, beef bacon, or even omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. For a smoky flavor without meat, smoked paprika and liquid smoke can be added.

How do I make the breadcrumb topping extra crispy?

Mixing the breadcrumbs with olive oil before sprinkling helps create a golden, crunchy crust. For even more crunch, add grated Parmesan to the breadcrumbs or toast them lightly in a skillet before topping.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Try the Oven Roasted Tomato Pepperoni Flatbread for a quick and flavorful dinner option.
• For a veggie-packed side, check out the Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Potatoes.

In Closing

This Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese with Bacon is a splendid way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a nutritious twist. With its creamy, cheesy sauce infused with the natural sweetness of butternut squash and the satisfying crunch of turkey bacon and breadcrumbs, it’s sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Whether you’re cooking for family dinners or festive occasions, this recipe is both approachable and impressive. Don’t forget to explore complementary dishes like the roasted broccoli stuffed potatoes to round out your meal perfectly. Happy cooking!

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