Description
This comforting Spinach Bacon Pumpkin Mac and Cheese combines creamy pumpkin-infused cheese sauce with crispy bacon and fresh spinach, delivering a unique twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it balances savory, creamy, and slightly sweet flavors with a comforting texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces pasta (such as elbow macaroni or shells)
Bacon and Sauce
- 6 strips bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional
- Breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.
- Make roux: To the skillet with bacon grease, add butter and melt over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a smooth paste, ensuring the flour is lightly toasted but not browned.
- Prepare cheese sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently until it thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add pumpkin and seasonings: Stir in pumpkin puree, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground nutmeg. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes more to let flavors meld.
- Melt cheeses: Remove skillet from heat, then add shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Stir continuously until cheeses melt completely and sauce is smooth.
- Combine pasta and extras: Add cooked pasta, crispy bacon, and chopped spinach to the cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional baking step: If desired, transfer the mac and cheese into a baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Spoon warm mac and cheese onto plates or bowls and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
- Pumpkin puree adds creaminess and subtle sweetness while boosting nutrition.
- Baking with breadcrumbs is optional but adds a pleasant crunchy topping.
- Ensure not to overcook pasta in step 1 as it will cook slightly more in the sauce and optional baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to avoid drying out.
