Here’s a comforting and wholesome recipe for Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese with Broccoli! This plant-based dish combines creamy butternut squash “cheese” sauce with tender pasta and broccoli florets for a satisfying, nutrient-packed meal. 🥦✨

---

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese with Broccoli

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

---

Ingredients

For the Butternut Squash Sauce:

• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced (about 1 small squash)
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (e.g., almond, oat, or soy)
• ½ cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 15 minutes, then drained)
• 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground turmeric (optional, for color)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta and Broccoli:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice (use gluten-free if needed)
• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces

For Garnish:

• 2 tbsp bread crumbs or crushed crackers (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped

---

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the diced butternut squash, onion, and garlic cloves. Cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
2. In a blender, combine the cooked squash, onion, and garlic with the plant-based milk, soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions.
2. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Return the drained pasta and broccoli to the pot. Pour the butternut squash sauce over the top and stir until everything is evenly coated.
2. Serve warm, garnished with bread crumbs or crushed crackers (if using) and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

---

Tips & Variations:

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce for a kick.
• Add protein: Stir in cooked chickpeas or baked tofu for extra protein.
• Baked version: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly meal.

---

This Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese with Broccoli is creamy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, making it a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion.