Chefit: Pumpkin Mac & Cheese

This recipe is perfect for the entire family and is incredibly easy to make, which is great for those busy weeknights. Everyone will definitely leave the dinner table with clean plate after this meal. While everyone will be talking about how tasty this dinner is, you will be thinking about all the nutrition and benefits. Pumpkin is high in Vitamin A which plays an important role in potentially reducing the risk of developing certain types of cancer and heart disease. Pumpkin is also a great source of fiber (along with the whole wheat pasta) which helps to support a healthy digestive system.

Try out this recipe and let us know what you think!

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese, Serves 6-8

Ingredients:

13.75 ounces whole wheat penne pasta

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 ½ cups milk

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 can (15 ounces) of pumpkin puree

2 red peppers, roasted and finely chopped

¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese

Fresh thyme leaves for topping (optional)

Preparation:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and gather all ingredients and equipment needed. Cook the penne according to the package directions. Preheat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Melt butter then add flour, forming a roux. Add milk and bring to a boil then down to a slow simmer, milk will begin to thicken (around 5 minutes). Stir occasionally to avoid milk from burning on the sides and bottom. Once the sauce has thickened, reduce heat to low.

Mix in the thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and pumpkin puree until well incorporated. Stir in ½ cup of mozzarella and ½ cup of cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Turn off the heat. Stir in the roasted red peppers and cooked penne pasta. In a greased 9×13 baking dish, add the pasta and sauce. Top with all of the remaining cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.

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