Description
Creamy Spinach Turkey Bacon Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food that combines savory turkey bacon, nutrient-rich spinach, and the rich flavor of pumpkin. This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. With its unique flavors and creamy texture, this mac and cheese will enchant even the pickiest eaters. Customize it with your favorite pasta and cheese options for a meal that truly satisfies.
Ingredients
Scale
- 10 ounces dry cavatappi or preferred pasta
- 12 ounces turkey bacon
- 6 ounces fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- ½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook turkey bacon until crispy. Once done, chop into pieces and combine with cooked pasta.
- Wilt spinach in the same skillet over low heat; add to the pasta mixture.
- For the cheese sauce, melt butter in the skillet, whisk in flour gradually, then add milk until smooth. Bring to a boil, then simmer until thickened.
- Stir in garlic powder, cheeses, salt, pepper, and pumpkin puree until combined.
- Mix the pumpkin sauce with the pasta mixture; transfer to the baking dish and top with additional cheese if desired.
- Combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top before baking for about 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 30mg