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Savory Mac & Cheese Stuffed Pumpkin

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Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

For the Pumpkin:

  • 1 medium sugar pumpkin (also known as pie pumpkin)
  • Olive oil (for brushing)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Mac & Cheese:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Prepare the Pumpkin:
    • Cut the top off the pumpkin and scoop out the seeds and stringy bits. You can use a spoon or a melon baller for this.
    • Brush the inside and outside of the pumpkin with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
    • Place the pumpkin, cut side up, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
  • Roast the Pumpkin:
    • Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender but still holds its shape. The exact time will depend on the size of the pumpkin. Remove from the oven and set aside.
  • Prepare the Mac & Cheese:
    • Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
    • In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
    • Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
    • Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
    • Add the Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
    • Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
  • Stuff the Pumpkin:
    • Spoon the mac and cheese mixture into the roasted pumpkin, packing it in as needed.
    • If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
  • Bake:
    • Return the stuffed pumpkin to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the mac and cheese is hot and the breadcrumbs (if used) are golden brown.
  • Serve:
    • Let the pumpkin cool slightly before serving. Cut into wedges and serve as a delightful main dish.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://succulentrecipes.com/savory-mac-cheese-stuffed-pumpkin/