Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

BY Kristen Hamilton, DCN, RDN, CSSD Published October 19, 2026
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This Pumpkin Mac & Cheese puts a nutritious twist on a classic comfort food favorite. Made with pumpkin puree for added fiber and vitamin A, it’s an easy, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy college students craving something cozy and delicious!

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Serving Size:
4
Time:
20 minutes
Difficulty:
Moderate

Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta (I like higher-protein pasta like Banza or Brami)
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp dried thyme, optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste


Directions

  1. Combine the Liquids: In a medium saucepan or pot, combine the broth, milk, pumpkin puree, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and thyme. Whisk until completely smooth.
  2. Simmer the Pasta: Stir the dry pasta noodles directly into the liquid mixture. Bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Cook Until Tender: Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to medium-low so it stays at a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes (or according to package instructions), stirring frequently to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom. Note: The liquid will look loose at first, but the pasta will absorb it as it cooks.
  4. Melt the Cheese: Once the pasta is tender and the liquid has reduced into a thick coating, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese one handful at a time, mixing gently until completely melted, creamy, and glossy.
  5. Let it sit for 2 minutes to thicken up slightly before serving!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size1cup
Servings4
Amount Per Serving
Calories420
% Daily Value *
Total Fat19g
30%
Saturated Fat9g
45%
Trans Fat0g
Sodium800mg
34%
Total Carbohydrate41g
14%
Dietary Fiber12g
48%
Sugar7g
Protein24g
48%
* % Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calories diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Nutrition information is an estimate. Actual values may vary depending on product brands, substitutions, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

• • • • •
cheese • milk • pasta • pumpkin

Extra Credit Reads

1

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BY Kristen Hamilton Published October 12, 2026

Cozy fall flavor in every bite! These tender pumpkin muffins are topped with a crisp oat streusel for the perfect mix of soft and crunchy. Enjoy one for breakfast, a study-break snack, or a little something sweet.

• • •
Banana • coconut oil • eggs • flour • pumpkin
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• • • • • •
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1

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• •
cottage cheese • eggs • oats
1

   Pumpkin Energy Bites

BY Kristen Hamilton Published October 5, 2026

A no-bake snack made with oats, perfect for meal prep or when on the go! 

• •
oats • Peanut butter • pumpkin

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