Description
Pumpkin Apple Three Cheese Mac and Cheese is a cozy fall comfort dish combining creamy pumpkin cheese sauce, tender apples, fragrant rosemary, and a golden breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients
- 4 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup Gruyere cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Gorgonzola cheese
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped rosemary, divided
- 3 cups apples, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Additional cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil with 1/4 cup salt. Do not add oil. Add the macaroni and allow the water to return to a boil before starting the timer. Cook for about 7 minutes, or until al dente.
- Remove the pasta from the heat, drain, and rinse under cold water.
- In a large saucepan, bring the heavy cream to a simmer. Add the Gruyere cheddar, Gorgonzola, Parmesan, and pumpkin puree. Gently stir until the cheeses have melted. Lower the heat to keep the sauce warm, then add the cooked pasta and mix thoroughly.
- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the apples and sauté for 4–5 minutes. Season with salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and pepper.
- Stir the sautéed apples into the pasta and cheese mixture.
- Coat a deep oval or 9×13-inch baking dish with oil, then transfer the pasta mixture to the dish.
- Top evenly with breadcrumbs, additional cheddar cheese, and the remaining rosemary.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, until hot and the topping is golden and bubbly. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Cook the pasta just until al dente so it does not become overly soft during baking.
- Use a deep baking dish to accommodate the creamy pasta and toppings.
- Serve hot with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete fall meal.
- Freshly chopped rosemary adds a fragrant savory contrast to the pumpkin and apples.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Bake, Stove Top
- Cuisine: American