Johnny D’s: Pumpkin Macaroni & Cheese

Jamie Saunders of Johnny D’s gets in the pumpkin craze by making pumpkin macaroni & cheese!

RECIPE

Pumpkin Macaroni & Cheese
serves 6
Elbow or Shell Pasta 1 pound (16 oz.)
Milk 2 %         2 cups
All-Purpose Flour 3 tablespoons
Butter, unsalted 2 tablespoons
Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese 2 cups (8 oz.)
Pumpkin Puree 1 – 15 ounce can
Kosher Salt to taste
Black Pepper         to taste
Panko Bread Crumbs 1/3 cup
if making into a casserole
In a large pot, cook macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
Meanwhile, in a medium pot add milk, butter and flour. Cook over medium heat for a
few minutes while stirring until butter is melted and mixture is slightly thickened.
Add cheddar cheese and pumpkin to milk mixture, and whisk until melted.
Pour cheese mixture over the drained pasta and mix until evenly coated. Top with salt
and pepper.
Can serve as is at this point or proceed to casserole instructions.
If making into a casserole:
Pour mac and cheese into a casserole dish about 9 x 12 and top with panko bread crumbs.  Bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes until bread crumbs are toasted.