Craving Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese but don’t want to make a trip (or can’t find it in stock!)? This copycat recipe is your solution! It perfectly captures the creamy, cheesy, slightly sweet, and utterly comforting flavors of the original, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Get ready to dive into a bowl of pure deliciousness. This recipe will walk you through every step, ensuring a perfect mac and cheese experience.
**Why This Copycat Recipe Works**
The key to replicating Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese lies in understanding the balance of flavors. It’s not *just* mac and cheese with butternut squash. It’s a harmonious blend of creamy cheese sauce, the subtle sweetness of roasted butternut squash, and a hint of warming spices. This recipe focuses on:
* **Roasting the Butternut Squash:** Roasting brings out the natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor that steaming or boiling simply can’t achieve.
* **Creamy Cheese Sauce:** A blend of cheeses creates a rich, flavorful sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. We’re using a combination that mirrors the tang and sharpness of the original.
* **Subtle Spices:** A touch of nutmeg and sage enhances the squash and adds a layer of complexity.
* **Perfect Pasta:** The right pasta shape is crucial for capturing all that delicious sauce. Elbow macaroni is a classic choice, but shells or cavatappi also work well.
**Ingredients You’ll Need**
Before you start, gather these ingredients:
* **Butternut Squash:** 1 medium (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons
* **Salt:** 1 teaspoon, plus more to taste
* **Black Pepper:** 1/2 teaspoon, plus more to taste
* **Elbow Macaroni:** 1 pound
* **Butter:** 4 tablespoons
* **All-Purpose Flour:** 4 tablespoons
* **Milk:** 3 cups (whole milk is best for richness)
* **Nutmeg:** 1/4 teaspoon
* **Dried Sage:** 1/4 teaspoon
* **Sharp Cheddar Cheese:** 8 ounces, shredded
* **Gruyere Cheese:** 4 ounces, shredded (or Fontina for a milder flavor)
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 2 ounces, grated
**Equipment**
* Baking Sheet
* Large Pot
* Colander
* Large Saucepan
* Whisk
* Cheese Grater
**Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Own Trader Joe’s Mac and Cheese**
Follow these detailed instructions for a guaranteed delicious outcome:
**1. Roast the Butternut Squash**
* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
* Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
* In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Ensure the squash is evenly coated.
* Spread the squash in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
* Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
* Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
**2. Cook the Macaroni**
* While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
* Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Do not overcook!
* Drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.
**3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce**
* In the same large pot (or a large saucepan), melt the butter over medium heat.
* Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce.
* Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.
* Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. The sauce should be able to coat the back of a spoon.
* Reduce the heat to low.
* Stir in the nutmeg and sage.
* Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese (or Fontina), and Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Make sure the cheeses are fully incorporated to avoid a grainy texture.
* Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
**4. Combine and Serve**
* Add the cooked macaroni and roasted butternut squash to the cheese sauce.
* Gently stir to combine, ensuring the macaroni is evenly coated with the sauce and the squash is distributed throughout.
* Serve immediately. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh sage, if desired.
**Tips and Tricks for Perfect Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese**
* **Don’t Overcook the Pasta:** Al dente pasta holds its shape better and won’t become mushy in the cheese sauce.
* **Use a Good Quality Cheese:** The flavor of the cheese is crucial to the overall taste of the mac and cheese. Opt for sharp cheddar and Gruyere (or Fontina) for the best results.
* **Grate Your Own Cheese:** Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating your own cheese ensures a creamier sauce.
* **Roast the Squash Until Caramelized:** Roasting the butternut squash until it’s slightly caramelized brings out its natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor.
* **Adjust the Spices to Your Taste:** If you prefer a stronger nutmeg or sage flavor, add a little more to the sauce.
* **Make it Ahead:** The cheese sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before adding the macaroni and squash.
* **Add a Topping:** For an extra layer of flavor and texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the mac and cheese before baking it in the oven for a few minutes until golden brown.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a touch of heat.
* **Add Protein:** Cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon can be added to the mac and cheese for a heartier meal.
* **Vegetarian Variation:** This recipe is already vegetarian! To make it vegan, substitute the cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and use plant-based milk and butter.
**Variations and Add-Ins**
This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to experiment and add your own personal touch. Here are a few ideas:
* **Spinach or Kale:** Add a handful of chopped spinach or kale to the cheese sauce for extra nutrients.
* **Bacon or Sausage:** Cooked and crumbled bacon or sausage adds a smoky, savory flavor.
* **Breadcrumb Topping:** Combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese, and sprinkle over the mac and cheese before baking for a crispy topping.
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Fontina, Gouda, or Havarti.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Add other roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower.
**Serving Suggestions**
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with:
* **Salads:** A simple green salad or a more elaborate salad with roasted vegetables.
* **Roasted Chicken or Pork:** A hearty main course to complement the mac and cheese.
* **Grilled Vegetables:** Grilled asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers.
* **Soup:** A light soup, such as tomato soup or vegetable soup.
**Storing and Reheating**
* **Storing:** Leftover Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** To reheat, add a splash of milk to the mac and cheese and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little extra cheese if needed.
**Nutritional Information (Approximate)**
* Calories: 600-700 per serving (depending on ingredients and portion size)
* Fat: 30-40g
* Saturated Fat: 20-25g
* Cholesterol: 100-120mg
* Sodium: 800-1000mg
* Carbohydrates: 60-70g
* Fiber: 5-7g
* Sugar: 15-20g
* Protein: 20-25g
**Making it Gluten-Free**
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the elbow macaroni with a gluten-free pasta alternative and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the roux. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
**Printable Recipe Card**
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**Conclusion: Your New Go-To Comfort Food**
This Copycat Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese recipe is a winner. It’s easier than you think to create that signature creamy, cheesy deliciousness at home, any time you crave it. The blend of sweet butternut squash, rich cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta is simply irresistible. Give it a try, and get ready to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal that will become a new family favorite. Don’t forget to share your creations and variations in the comments below! Happy cooking! Enjoy this delightful butternut squash mac and cheese. This is truly the best way to get that Trader Joe’s experience without the Trader Joe’s trip. You’ll be amazed at how close this recipe gets to the original. The secret lies in the roasted butternut squash and the careful blend of cheeses. Experiment with different cheeses to find your perfect combination. A little smoked gouda can add a wonderful depth of flavor. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own! I like to add a sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs to the top for a little extra crunch. Simply toss the panko breadcrumbs with some melted butter and Parmesan cheese and sprinkle them over the mac and cheese before baking it in the oven for a few minutes. This adds a fantastic textural element to the dish. This recipe is also great for meal prepping. You can make a big batch of it on Sunday and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, you can even add a poached egg on top of your mac and cheese. The runny yolk adds a richness and creaminess that is simply divine. It’s a truly decadent and satisfying meal. This butternut squash mac and cheese is also a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables for picky eaters. The sweetness of the butternut squash masks the flavor of the vegetables, making it a dish that even the most vegetable-averse kids will enjoy. So, what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and start cooking! This Copycat Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household. And don’t forget to share your creations and variations in the comments below! I love hearing from my readers and seeing what you come up with. Happy cooking! You won’t regret trying this recipe! It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. And it’s so easy to make that you’ll be whipping it up in no time. So, go ahead and give it a try. You’ll be glad you did! This butternut squash mac and cheese is also a great option for potlucks and parties. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. And it’s so easy to transport that you won’t have to worry about making a mess. Just be sure to make a big batch, because it’s sure to disappear quickly! Don’t forget to tag me in your photos on social media when you make this recipe. I love seeing your creations! And be sure to follow me for more delicious and easy recipes. I’m always sharing new and exciting dishes that you’re sure to love. So, stay tuned! This butternut squash mac and cheese is also a great source of vitamins and nutrients. Butternut squash is packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. And cheese is a good source of calcium and protein. So, you can feel good about serving this dish to your family. It’s a healthy and delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. What could be better? This recipe is the bomb! You will totally love it, and the result tastes just as good as the original from Trader Joe’s!