Cozy Spicy Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Today’s Unique Recipe: Spicy Pumpkin Macaroni and Cheese

As the weather starts to cool down and pumpkin season is in full swing, I thought it would be the perfect time to share a cozy and comforting dish with a spicy twist. This spicy pumpkin macaroni and cheese is a delicious fusion of classic comfort food and bold flavors that is sure to warm you up on a chilly evening.

Ingredients:

• elbow macaroni (300g)
• pumpkin puree (250g)
• fresh jalapeno, diced (1)
• smoked gouda, grated (150g)
• cream cheese (100g)
• garlic powder (1 tsp)
• cayenne pepper (1/2 tsp)
• salt (to taste)
• black pepper (to taste)
• breadcrumbs (50g)
• butter, melted (50g)

Kitchen Tools:

• large pot
• baking dish
• colander
• oven
• stove

To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter. Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

In the same pot, combine the pumpkin puree, diced jalapeno, grated smoked gouda, cream cheese, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined. Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to the greased baking dish.

In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

One serving of this spicy pumpkin macaroni and cheese weighs approximately 300g. This recipe makes 4 servings, with each serving clocking in at around 400 calories.

One unique tip for this dish is to add a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds on top before serving for an extra crunch and a pop of color.

I hope you enjoy this delicious and unique twist on a classic comfort food favorite. Feel free to customize the spice level to suit your taste and make it your own. Happy cooking!