Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Bacon (Print Version)
Creamy pasta with pumpkin, cheddar, and crispy bacon delivers comforting flavor for an autumn main course.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Pasta
01 -
12 oz elbow macaroni
→ Cheese Sauce
02 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
04 -
2 cups whole milk
05 -
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
06 -
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
07 -
1 cup pumpkin puree
08 -
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
09 -
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
11 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
12 -
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
→ Topping
13 -
6 slices bacon
14 -
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
15 -
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
16 -
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
# How to Make It:
01 -
Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente according to package directions. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 -
Fry the bacon slices in a large skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy. Place cooked bacon on a paper towel-lined plate and crumble or chop into small pieces once cooled.
03 -
Set oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow to preheat.
04 -
In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux.
05 -
Gradually pour in milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
06 -
Reduce heat to low. Stir in shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, pumpkin puree, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and sauce is smooth.
07 -
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and toss to coat evenly.
08 -
Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish, spreading evenly.
09 -
In a small mixing bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated.
10 -
Sprinkle the buttered panko evenly over the pasta. Top with crumbled bacon.
11 -
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the surface is golden and bubbling.
12 -
Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
# Additional Tips:
01 -
Omit bacon and replace with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a vegetarian alternative.
02 -
Switch sharp cheddar for Gruyère or fontina to adjust the flavor profile.
03 -
Serve alongside a green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
04 -
This dish pairs nicely with a lightly oaked Chardonnay or a malty amber ale.