🍁 Pumpkin & Pea Mac & Cheese

A cozy fall twist on a classic favorite.

When the weather turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy mac & cheese to warm your soul.

This fall, we’re giving the classic a cozy, veggie-forward upgrade — rich pumpkin puree for creaminess, peas for a touch of sweetness & protein, and sage for that earthy fall aroma.

Simple, comforting, and full of flavor — this Pumpkin & Pea Mac & Cheese is the perfect fall comfort dish for cozy nights in.

🧺 Ingredients

Pasta (any short shape like elbows, shells, or cavatappi)

1 cup pumpkin purée

1 cup frozen peas

1–2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite blend)

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons flour

1 cup milk (plus an extra tablespoon)

Fresh or dried sage, chopped

Salt & pepper to taste

Optional: toasted breadcrumbs for topping

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the pasta & peas

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Add frozen peas during the last few minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the roux (the creamy base)

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk until smooth and slightly golden.

3. Add the milk & pumpkin

Slowly pour in 1 cup of milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.

In a small bowl, stir 1 tablespoon of milk into the pumpkin purée to loosen it, then whisk the pumpkin mixture into the saucepan until smooth and creamy.

4. Stir in the cheese

Add cheese by the handful, whisking between each addition until fully melted and velvety smooth.

5. Combine it all together

Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and peas. Add chopped sage, salt, and pepper to taste. Gently fold until everything is well coated and cozy.

6. (Optional) Top with toasted breadcrumbs for extra crunch before serving.

🍂 Serve & Enjoy

Serve warm, topped with an extra sprinkle of sage or cheese.

It’s creamy, comforting, and full of cozy fall flavor — the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. 💛

✨ A Little Reflection

There’s something magical about slowing down with a simple, nourishing meal on a chilly day. This dish reminds me that comfort can be both wholesome and indulgent — a little reminder to savor the season, one cozy bite at a time. 🍁

📌 Save this recipe and make it part of your fall favorites. 🍂

A Votre Sante!

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