One Pot Stove-Top Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe

 

If you’re craving a cozy, creamy comfort dish that brings autumn flavors to your table in no time, you absolutely have to try this One Pot Stove-Top Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s a heartwarming twist on classic mac and cheese, merging velvety pumpkin puree and rich cheeses in a single pot for a creamy, luscious result that’s both simple and indulgently satisfying. The blending of herbs, spices, and cheeses with that natural sweetness from pumpkin creates layers of flavor that will quickly make this recipe your go-to for chilly evenings or anytime you want a hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything you need for this One Pot Stove-Top Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe is straightforward and easy to gather, with each ingredient playing a crucial role in building that perfect balance of creamy texture, savory depth, and festive color.

• 2 tablespoons salted butter: Adds richness and a silky base for infusing herbs and roasting garlic.
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed: Imparts mellow garlic aroma while browning, deepening the flavor.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves: Brings in an earthy, fragrant note that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
• 9 leaves fresh sage: Introduces a warm, slightly peppery note that pairs wonderfully with fall flavors.
• 1 pound short-cut pasta: The perfect vehicle for the creamy sauce to cling to, cooking straight in the pot.
• 1 cup canned coconut milk or whole milk: Ensures the sauce is luxuriously smooth and adds subtle creaminess.
• 3 ounces cream cheese, cubed: Melts into the sauce for extra creaminess and tang.
• 1 cup pumpkin puree: The star of the recipe, adding natural sweetness, vibrant color, and a healthy twist.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides that classic mac and cheese sharpness and depth.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded creamy gouda cheese: Enhances meltability and adds a buttery smoothness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the savory flavor and balances the pumpkin’s sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a gentle smoky warmth and beautiful color.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a slight kick that wakes up the palate.
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Perfect spice for pumpkin dishes, adding a hint of warmth and earthiness.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to perfectly balance all the flavors.

How to Make One Pot Stove-Top Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Butter and Infuse with Herbs

Start by melting the salted butter over medium heat in a large pot. Toss in the smashed garlic cloves, fresh thyme leaves, and sage leaves to let them slowly brown in the butter. This process takes about 3 to 5 minutes and develops a nutty, aromatic base that will layer so beautifully with the pumpkin and cheese. Once browned, carefully remove the sage leaves and set them aside for later use.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Right in the Pot

Next, add the short-cut pasta to the pot and toss it with the infused butter, coating every piece. Pour in 4 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Sprinkle in some kosher salt for seasoning and let the pasta cook uncovered for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta will soak up the flavor from the butter and herbs as it cooks. Do not drain the water, as it will form the base of the sauce.

Step 3: Stir in Pumpkin, Cream Cheese, and Milk

After the pasta has cooked to just al dente, stir in the canned coconut or whole milk, cream cheese cubes, and the pumpkin puree. Cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cream cheese has fully melted and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. This is where the magic happens, as the pumpkin purees into the sauce, giving it richness and that distinct autumn charm.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses and Spices

Remove the pot from heat and add in the shredded sharp cheddar and Gouda cheeses along with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and nutmeg. Stir vigorously until the cheeses melt into a smooth, creamy marvel that clings perfectly to your pasta. This step creates the luscious, cheesy goodness you’ll savor in every bite.

Step 5: Finish with Garlic and Seasonings

Take the browned garlic cloves you set aside earlier and either mash them or chop finely, stirring them back into the pasta for an extra burst of mellow roasted garlic flavor. Season the mac and cheese with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of milk or water to loosen it up just right.

How to Serve One Pot Stove-Top Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

For garnishes, sprinkle freshly grated nutmeg and cracked black pepper over each serving. You can also crumble the reserved fried sage leaves on top to introduce a crispy texture and fragrant finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta underneath.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin mac and cheese shines as a centerpiece or pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or sweet and tangy cranberry chutney. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette lifts the dish so the meal feels balanced and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this One Pot Stove-Top Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe in mini cast-iron skillets or colorful ramekins for an inviting individual presentation. Sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed crispy bacon for texture and a touch of extra indulgence when entertaining guests or during family dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover mac and cheese should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, maintaining most of its creamy goodness.

Freezing

You can freeze the leftover One Pot Stove-Top Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To prevent it from drying out, press a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the mac before sealing the container.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or water during reheating to restore the creamy texture without drying out the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While short-cut pasta works best for catching the sauce, feel free to use elbow macaroni, shells, or even penne based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply use canned coconut milk instead of whole milk, and swap cream cheese and shredded cheeses for dairy-free versions. The pumpkin puree enhances creaminess, so it’s still wonderfully rich.

Can I substitute fresh herbs with dried ones?

While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, dried thyme and sage can be used in smaller amounts. Use about one-third of the amount and add them earlier during cooking for full flavor development.

How spicy is this mac and cheese with cayenne pepper?

The cayenne adds a subtle kick, not overwhelming heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount or omit it altogether for a milder dish.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and bake it later?

This recipe is designed for stove-top cooking and is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine and reheat gently before serving. Baking is optional but may dry out the creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the ease and heartiness of the One Pot Stove-Top Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Recipe that makes it an instant favorite in any kitchen. It’s the kind of dish you can throw together on a busy day but still delivers comfort, warmth, and layers of fall flavor that everyone will rave about. Give this one a try soon—you might just find your new signature fall comfort food.

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