Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe

This Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe is perfect. It is creamy, cheesy, and very warm.

Many people love this [Recipe Name] Recipe during autumn. It adds a nice twist to classic pasta.

The pumpkin makes the sauce very silky. It does not taste like pie. It tastes like rich, savory comfort food.

You will love how easy it is. Learning how to make Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is simple.

Your whole family will ask for seconds. Gather your ingredients for Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Mac and Cheese now.

Let’s start cooking this delicious, golden dish together today!

When I First Introduced to Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

I first saw this recipe on a chilly Sunday. I wanted something different for dinner. Classic mac and cheese felt a bit boring.

Then, I found this pumpkin version. At first, I was a bit nervous. Pumpkin in pasta sounded very strange.

But the Pioneer Woman never fails me. I decided to give it a try. The kitchen smelled amazing while it baked.

The first bite was a total dream. It was earthy, salty, and very cheesy. Now, it is a staple in my home.

0 Every October, my kids beg for it. It is truly the ultimate comfort meal.

Equipment List

• Large pot for boiling pasta.
• Colander for draining water.
• Whisk for a smooth sauce.
• Large saucepan or Dutch oven.
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• Baking dish (9×13 inches).
• Cheese grater for fresh cheese.

Ingredients You Need for Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

• 16 ounces elbow macaroni pasta.
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded.
• 1 cup fontina cheese, shredded.
• 2 cups whole milk.
• 1 cup heavy cream.
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour.
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg.
• Salt and black pepper to taste.
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs for topping.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add a pinch of salt. Cook macaroni until it is slightly firm. This is called “al dente.” Drain the pasta in a colander. Set it aside for later.

2. Make the Roux

Melt butter in a large saucepan. Use medium heat for this step. Sprinkle the flour over the butter. Whisk it constantly for one minute. It should look like a pale paste.

3. Add Milk and Cream

Slowly pour in the milk and cream. Keep whisking so no lumps form. Let the mixture simmer gently. It will start to thicken up. This takes about five minutes.

4. Mix in the Pumpkin

Add the pumpkin puree to the sauce. Stir until the color is orange. Add the mustard powder and nutmeg. Add salt and pepper as you like. The sauce will look very smooth.

5. Melt the Cheese

Turn the heat down to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar and fontina. Keep stirring until the cheese melts. The sauce should be thick and glossy. It looks very appetizing now.

6. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Pour the cooked macaroni into the sauce. Stir well to coat every noodle. Every inch of pasta should be covered. It already looks great at this stage.

7. Add the Topping

Pour the mix into a baking dish. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on the top. You can add more cheese if you want. This adds a nice crunch later.

8. Bake the Macaroni

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Bake the dish for 20 minutes. The top should be golden brown. The cheese should be bubbling on the edges.

Tips to Make the Best Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

• Use Block Cheese: Always grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese has a waxy coating. Fresh cheese melts much better.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: The pasta bakes in the oven too. Keep it firm during the boiling stage. This prevents mushy noodles later.
• Puree, Not Pie Mix: Use plain canned pumpkin puree. Do not use pumpkin pie filling. The filling has sugar and spices.
• Add Some Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper. This gives a tiny bit of heat. It balances the sweetness of the pumpkin.
• Breadcrumb Trick: Toss breadcrumbs with a little melted butter. This makes the topping extra crispy and brown.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the dish sit for five minutes. This helps the sauce thicken even more. It stays on the noodles better.

FAQs about Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can use shells or penne. Short shapes hold the sauce very well.

How do I store the leftovers?

Keep them in a sealed container. Put the container in the fridge.

Is this dish very sweet?

No, it is a savory dish. The spices make it taste very rich.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it but do not bake. Cover it and keep in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

The Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe is a winner. It brings the flavors of fall to your table.

It is creamy, cheesy, and very satisfying. This dish is great for busy weeknights. It also works for holiday side dishes.

Everyone will love the unique orange color. It is a fun way to eat veggies too! Once you try it, you will make it often.

It is the best way to enjoy pumpkin. Happy cooking to you and your family!