If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, creamy dish that marries the rich comfort of classic mac and cheese with the subtle sweetness and warmth of fall spices, look no further than this Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s a delightful twist that effortlessly blends tender pasta, velvety pumpkin puree, and melty cheeses spiced just right, making it a standout side or even a satisfying vegetarian main. Trust me, once you try this one-pot wonder, it’ll quickly become one of your all-time favorites!

A close-up view of medium-sized rigatoni pasta covered in a thick, smooth orange sauce with small green herb specks mixed in. The pasta pieces are tubular and ridged, arranged closely together in a shallow black pan, with the sauce evenly coating each piece and pooling slightly at the bottom. The background shows a white marbled surface with soft lighting highlighting the creamy texture of the sauce and the pasta curves. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is all you need to create this luscious Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe. Each element plays a key role: from the pasta providing that perfect bite, to the pumpkin puree enriching the sauce with creaminess and subtle earthiness, and the blend of cheeses delivering that irresistible gooeyness and depth of flavor.

6 oz Mezzi rigatoni or your preferred pasta: The ridges and tubes are perfect for holding onto that creamy sauce.
½ cup Pumpkin puree: Adds smooth texture and a gentle natural sweetness.
¾ cup Unsweetened coconut milk or heavy cream: For a rich, velvety sauce base with a hint of lushness.
¾ cup Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides that classic sharpness and meltiness central to mac and cheese.
¼ cup Shredded parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth of flavor.
2 tbsp Unsalted butter: To infuse the sauce with creamy richness and help cook the aromatics.
2 Cloves garlic, grated or minced: Brings a gentle pungency that elevates all the flavors.
2 tbsp Shallot, finely chopped: Offers a delicate sweetness and complexity.
1 sprig Fresh rosemary: Infuses an earthy, pine-like aroma.
2 Sage leaves: Adds a subtle, savory note perfect with pumpkin.
1 Bay leaf: Provides a mild herbal undertone, enhancing the sauce’s complexity.
½ tsp Dried thyme: A fragrant herb that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
½ tsp Smoked paprika: Introduces a smoky warmth and gentle heat.
¼ tsp Ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy spice note that elevates the pumpkin flavor.
⅛ tsp Ground nutmeg: Delivers a sweet, nutty spice that is classic with creamy fall dishes.
¼ tsp Ground black pepper: Balances the sweetness with a mild kick.
½ tsp Salt: To bring all the flavors together.
Freshly grated parmesan cheese for garnish: Adds a finishing touch of sharp, salty flair.

How to Make Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your pasta in a large pot of salted water until it’s perfectly al dente. This means it should be tender but still have a slight bite to it, which will hold up beautifully when mixed with the luscious sauce. Don’t forget to save about a third of a cup of that starchy pasta water—this little trick will help you loosen the sauce later and make everything silky smooth.

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt that unsalted butter over medium heat and then add your fragrant shallots, bay leaf, rosemary sprig, and sage leaves. Let these fresh herbs gently infuse the butter until the kitchen fills with an irresistible herbaceous aroma. Add the garlic next and sauté just until it’s fragrant—make sure not to let anything burn, so lower the heat if needed. This slow cooking builds the flavor base for the sauce and makes it utterly delicious.

Step 3: Build the Pumpkin Base

Next, stir in your creamy pumpkin puree along with the coconut milk and all those inviting spices—thyme, smoked paprika, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. It’s an exciting combination that balances sweet, smoky, and savory notes perfectly. Keep stirring until everything is heated through, smooth, and melded into a luscious sauce. A low simmer for a couple of minutes helps develop the flavors even more. Remember to remove the bay leaf, rosemary, and sage sprig afterwards—they’ve done their job!

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Now it’s time for the cheeses! Add your shredded sharp cheddar and parmesan to the warm pumpkin sauce and stir gently until melted and silky smooth. This creates that irresistible cheesy gooey texture that this Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe is all about. The combination of cheddar’s sharpness with parmesan’s nutty tang creates a sauce that’s decadent but still balanced.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, fold your perfectly cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water into the sauce. This step ensures every piece of pasta is lovingly coated in that creamy, aromatic pumpkin cheese mixture. Gently toss so the sauce clings beautifully without breaking the pasta. Now your dish is ready to serve and impress!

How to Serve Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe

A white plate holds a creamy orange pasta dish with rigatoni noodles, each piece thick and ridged, fully coated in a smooth, rich orange sauce speckled with herbs. On top, thin shreds of pale yellow cheese are spread unevenly, adding texture and a mild contrast. Small green herb pieces and a light dusting of reddish seasoning are sprinkled across the entire dish, creating a vibrant, appetizing look. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkling freshly grated parmesan cheese on top of your Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe adds a wonderful salty punch and a lovely textural contrast. You could also add a few fresh sage leaves lightly toasted in butter for a sophisticated finish that complements the pumpkin’s warmth. A dash of cracked black pepper on top adds a subtle kick that brightens each bite.

Side Dishes

This creamy, spiced mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh salads to cut through the richness—think arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a kale Caesar. Roasted autumn vegetables like Brussels sprouts or butternut squash work beautifully alongside, echoing the seasonal flavors. For a heartier meal, serve it next to grilled chicken or a juicy baked tofu steak.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun and festive twist, bake this Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe in a casserole dish topped with breadcrumbs or crushed walnuts for a crunchy topping. Serving individual portions in small ramekins or mini pumpkin bowls can really wow guests at dinner parties. You can even swirl in a bit of pesto or hot sauce on top for an unexpected flavor pop that delights the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it taste even better the next day. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving again to reincorporate the sauce.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze your mac and cheese, portion it into freezer-safe containers and seal tightly. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Stir often to keep it creamy and prevent sticking, and you’ll have a comforting meal in minutes.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is a convenient option. Just make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling which contains added sugars and spices.

What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is the star here for classic flavor and meltiness, but you can experiment with gouda or gruyere for a slightly different twist. Parmesan adds a subtle nuttiness that rounds out the sauce nicely.

Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Not as written, but you can make it vegan by using plant-based butter, coconut cream (already in the recipe), and vegan cheddar and parmesan substitutes. The spices and herbs keep it flavorful without any dairy.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap the pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. The creamy pumpkin cheese sauce remains just as delicious without the gluten.

How spicy is the dish?

The smoked paprika adds a gentle smoky warmth, but the cinnamon and nutmeg keep the spices on the cozy side rather than hot. If you want a little heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe is more than just comfort food; it’s a heartwarming hug on a plate that brilliantly celebrates autumn with every creamy, cheesy bite. Whether you make it as a side or a main, this delightful dish will quickly win over everyone at your table. So roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a whirl—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy pumpkin and cheese together!