Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is the ultimate cozy comfort food with a fall-inspired twist. This creamy stovetop pasta dish blends tender shell noodles with rich cheddar cheese, smoky sausage, sweet pumpkin puree, and peas for a complete and satisfying meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect quick and hearty dinner for chilly evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made in one skillet and one pot – fewer dishes, faster cleanup

• Ready in just 30 minutes – ideal for busy weeknights

• Balanced flavors with smokiness, creaminess, and a subtle pumpkin sweetness

• A kid-friendly way to sneak in some veggies

• Great use for leftover canned pumpkin

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 ounces uncooked shell pasta

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 1 cup diced precooked chicken sausage

• 1/2 cup diced onion

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (preferably kosher)

• 1 cup whole milk, room temperature

• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, room temperature

• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree

• 1 cup frozen peas

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook until al dente, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Sausage and Onion:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chicken sausage, diced onion, and a big pinch of salt. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the onion is softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

3. Make the Sauce:
   Sprinkle the flour over the sausage and onion mixture and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute, then slowly whisk in the milk. Add smoked paprika and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer until it starts to thicken, about 3–5 minutes.

4. Add Cheese, Pumpkin & Peas:
   Remove the skillet from heat. Whisk in the shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in the pumpkin puree and frozen peas. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   Add the cooked shell pasta to the sauce. Stir to coat evenly. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage or use a plant-based sausage alternative.

• Add Crunch: Top with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for texture.

• More Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers.

• Different Cheese: Try Gruyère, mozzarella, or gouda in place of cheddar for a unique flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce, or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.

• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy texture may separate when thawed.

FAQs

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

Shell pasta is ideal because it holds onto the creamy sauce well. You can also use elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, just be sure it’s well-puréed and cooked until soft. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices.

Is this mac and cheese spicy?

No, it’s mild. The smoked paprika adds a subtle warmth without heat. You can increase the spice with hot sauce or chili flakes if desired.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Simply omit the sausage or substitute with a meat-free alternative.

Will kids like the pumpkin flavor?

Most kids won’t even notice the pumpkin—it adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness but blends seamlessly with the cheese.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

You can use regular paprika, but the smoky version adds great depth of flavor.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and avoids a grainy texture.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?

Remove the skillet from heat as soon as the sauce thickens, and stir in extra milk as needed to adjust consistency.

Can I use other types of sausage?

Sure. Try spicy Italian, turkey sausage, or even vegan sausage depending on your preference.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, it holds up well in the fridge and reheats nicely for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is creamy, comforting, and full of cozy fall flavor. With the smoky sausage, sweet peas, and velvety pumpkin-cheese sauce, it’s a satisfying twist on a classic that the whole family will love. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or seasonal cravings. Give it a try and enjoy the warmth of autumn in every bite.