As the crisp air of fall settles in, it’s time to embrace hearty yet healthy meals that bring warmth and comfort. One of my go-to fall staples is Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese—a lighter twist on the classic dish we all know and love. It combines the creamy richness of cheddar cheese with the natural sweetness of butternut squash, resulting in a dish that’s both satisfying and wholesome. If you’re looking for the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition, this mac and cheese is a must-try!
Why Butternut Squash?
Butternut squash is packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, and fiber. It not only adds a velvety texture to the mac and cheese but also gives it a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the sharpness of cheddar cheese. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in some extra veggies!
Ingredients
1 pound macaroni (elbow, rigatoni, shells, or your favorite shape)
Optional: A pinch of nutmeg and fresh sage for garnish
Instructions
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the butternut squash: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the cubed butternut squash, garlic, salt, pepper, mustard powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to coat the squash with the seasoning.
Cook the squash: Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook until the butternut squash is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Blend into a sauce: Using an immersion blender (or transferring the mixture to a blender), blend the butternut squash mixture until smooth. Return it to the pot, add the milk, and stir until well combined. Bring the sauce back to a gentle simmer.
Add the cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Combine the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring to coat each piece with the creamy butternut squash and cheese mixture.
Prepare for baking (optional): If you prefer a baked mac and cheese with a crispy topping, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. For an extra crispy finish, broil on high for 2-3 minutes at the end, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Serve and garnish: Divide the mac and cheese into bowls and top with a sprinkle of nutmeg and freshly chopped sage for an added burst of fall flavor.
FAQ: Your Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese Questions Answered!
Can I use frozen butternut squash instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen butternut squash is a convenient option that works just as well as fresh. You can thaw it slightly before using or add it straight to the pot when cooking with the onions. Keep in mind that frozen squash may cook a bit faster, so monitor it closely to avoid overcooking. The flavor and texture will still be creamy and delicious!
How do I reheat leftovers?
There are a few ways to reheat your Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese:
In the microwave: Add a splash of milk to your serving to keep it creamy, then microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between intervals, until heated through.
In a skillet: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the mac and cheese. Stir frequently and add a splash of milk to restore the creaminess. This method gives the pasta a slightly crispy texture around the edges, which is a delicious bonus!
In the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can make this mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat using any of the methods above when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, this Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the oven or microwave.
A Lighter Comfort Food for Fall
This lighter version of mac and cheese is perfect for family dinners, fall gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a festive side dish, this recipe is sure to satisfy!
What if I told you that you could make pancakes with just five simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen? These 5-ingredient pancakes are made with banana, egg, baking powder, flour, and your choice of almond or vanilla extract. They’re easy, nutritious, and perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunches!
Why You’ll Love These Pancakes:
Healthy: The mashed banana adds natural sweetness and moisture, so there’s no need for added sugar.
Simple: With just five ingredients, these pancakes are straightforward and come together quickly.
Fluffy: Thanks to the baking powder, these pancakes puff up beautifully, giving you light, airy pancakes that melt in your mouth.
Customizable: Whether you prefer vanilla or almond extract, you can tweak the flavor to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
1 ripe banana
1 large egg
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/3 cup all-purpose flour (can sub with whole wheat or gluten-free flour)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract
Instructions:
Mash the banana: In a medium-sized bowl, mash the banana with a fork until smooth. You can leave a few small chunks for added texture if you prefer.
Mix in the egg and extract: Add the egg and almond or vanilla extract to the mashed banana. Stir until the mixture is fully combined.
Add the dry ingredients: Sprinkle the baking powder and flour into the bowl. Gently mix until all the ingredients are incorporated, but be careful not to overmix. The baking powder is key to getting those pancakes to fluff up, so make sure it’s evenly distributed in the batter.
Cook the pancakes: Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with a bit of oil or butter. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of batter for each pancake onto the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until bubbles start to form on the surface and the edges turn golden. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes. You’ll see the pancakes rise and get wonderfully fluffy!
Serve and enjoy: Stack your pancakes high and serve them with your favorite toppings—fresh fruit, maple syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar/pumpkin spice, or a dollop of yogurt.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Babies and Toddlers:
As a mom, I’m always looking for simple, wholesome recipes that my little ones can enjoy, and this pancake recipe checks all the boxes. With minimal ingredients and no added sugar, these pancakes are soft and easy for babies and toddlers to eat. My youngest, Leo, just loves them! The banana adds natural sweetness and moisture, making it a perfect baby-friendly option. I love that I can make a batch and serve them to both of my boys without worrying about excess sugar or processed ingredients. Plus, they’re a great way to introduce healthy flavors early on!
Not only are they healthy, but the pancakes get so fluffy, which makes them easy for little hands to grab onto and munch on. I cut them into small bite-sized pieces for my boys, and they love them as finger food. The fluffiness also means they’re soft enough for babies without teeth, so no worries if your little one is still working on their first set of chompers!
FAQ:
Can I make these pancakes gluten-free? Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You could also try using oat flour for a more wholesome option.
Can I freeze these pancakes? Definitely. Make a double batch, let the pancakes cool completely, and then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave or toaster. Perfect for those busy mornings when you need breakfast in a pinch!
Can I add more ingredients? Absolutely! While this recipe is great as-is, feel free to add in extras like chia seeds, cinnamon, or a handful of blueberries for extra flavor and nutrients.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? If you have any leftovers (which I doubt you will!), you can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just warm them up in a skillet or microwave, and they’ll be as good as fresh.
Can I use other extracts? Yes! You can experiment with different extracts like coconut, lemon, or even maple for a fun twist on the flavor.
Looking for a fun, affordable way to spruce up your Halloween decor? Crafting terracotta-style jack-o’-lantern planters using cheap Halloween buckets, acrylic paint, and baking soda is a perfect DIY project. These planters will give your home a spooky yet charming look, and they can be used for real plants or artificial flowers for a low-maintenance option.
Materials You’ll Need:
Before diving into the crafting process, make sure you have the following materials ready:
Plastic Halloween Buckets: These can be found at most dollar stores or seasonal sections of larger retailers. Pick ones with the classic jack-o’-lantern face.
Spray Paint Primer– This will help the acrylic paint go on smoothly and provide full coverage.
Acrylic Paint: Choose shades of orange, tan, or terracotta to give the planter an authentic clay look. White or cream for detailing.
Baking Soda: This is the magic ingredient that will help create a textured, ceramic-like finish.
Paint Brushes: Medium-sized brushes work best for covering large surfaces, while smaller brushes will help with detailed work.
Artificial Flowers: Choose artificial fall flowers like mums, marigolds, or dried wheat for an autumn look.
Sandpaper (optional): For a smooth finish or to distress the bucket for a vintage look.
Potting Soil and Real Plants: Optional, if you want to use real plants.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Work Area
Before you begin, lay down some newspaper or plastic to protect your workspace. Acrylic paint can be messy, so it’s always a good idea to have everything covered. Gather all your materials to ensure they’re within arm’s reach.
Step 2: Clean and Prep the Halloween Buckets
Wash and dry the plastic Halloween buckets thoroughly to remove any dust or grime. If they have handles, you can remove them to make painting easier. You may want to sand the buckets lightly if they’re too smooth, as this will help the paint adhere better.
Step 3: Create the Terracotta Paint Mixture
To achieve the faux terracotta look, you’ll need to mix your acrylic paint with baking soda. Here’s how to do it:
Spray 1-2 layers of primer all over the Paul. Let is fully dry.
Pour your acrylic paint into a disposable container. Orange, beige, or terracotta shades work best.
Add baking soda to the paint at a 1:1 ratio (for every cup of paint, add a cup of baking soda). This will give the paint a thick, textured consistency that mimics real terracotta.
Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and slightly gritty.
The baking soda gives the paint a rough, clay-like finish that will make your plastic bucket look just like a real ceramic planter.
Step 4: Paint the Buckets
Using your medium paintbrush, apply the baking soda-acrylic mixture to the outside of the bucket. Don’t worry if the first coat isn’t perfect; you’ll likely need two to three coats to get full coverage.
Paint in even strokes, covering the entire surface of the bucket.
Allow each coat to dry completely before adding the next one. This usually takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on the thickness of the paint and the humidity.
For added character, consider leaving brushstrokes visible or creating extra texture by dabbing the paint in certain areas.
Step 5: Add a Second Coat and Texture
Once the first coat has dried, you can add a second or even third coat of paint for a thicker, more textured finish. You can also use your brush to create additional texture by stippling or dabbing the paint for a more rustic look.
If you want to distress the bucket for a vintage effect, lightly sand certain areas after the paint has dried to expose some of the original surface.
Step 7: Let the Paint Dry Completely
Once you’ve achieved your desired look, allow the bucket to dry completely. This may take a few hours, depending on how many coats you’ve applied.
Step 8: Choose Your Flowers—Real or Artificial
Now it’s time to decide what you want to put inside your newly crafted terracotta planter. You can go with real plants, artificial flowers, or a combination of both for a versatile, low-maintenance option.
Artificial Flowers: If you prefer an easy-care option, artificial fall flowers like sunflowers, marigolds, or dried wheat can add a festive touch without any upkeep. You can find these at craft stores, and they’re perfect for creating a long-lasting display that won’t wilt. Simply arrange them in the planter, and if necessary, use floral foam or rocks to keep them securely in place.
Real Plants: If you love the look of living greenery, fill your planter with potting soil and plant some autumnal favorites like mums, pansies, or ornamental cabbages. If you’re using the planter outdoors, drill small drainage holes in the bottom to prevent water buildup.
Step 9: Final Touches
Once your flowers or plants are in place, you can add some decorative touches, like faux cobwebs or tiny Halloween figurines, to enhance the festive look. If you plan to keep the planter outside, consider applying a clear sealer to protect the paint from moisture and fading.
Extra Tips for Success:
Seal the Planter: If you plan to use the planter outdoors, applying a clear sealer can help protect the paint and keep the planter looking fresh throughout the season.
Distressed Look: For a more rustic, aged appearance, lightly sand the bucket once the paint has dried to expose bits of the original plastic surface.
Custom Colors: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors. Try white, black, or even spooky purple to create a unique jack-o’-lantern look that fits your Halloween theme.
Shop Supplies
I would love to see your DIY terracotta jack-o’-lantern planters! Tag me on social media @thenicoleroseblog to share your creations and inspire others!
Get ready to add a spooky yet charming touch to your fall décor with these adorable air-dry clay ghost pumpkins! This craft is perfect for a fun Halloween project, and it’s easy to create using inexpensive materials like a pumpkin from the dollar store and some air-dry clay.
Materials Needed:
Pumpkin of any size (I used one from the dollar store)
Air-dry clay
White acrylic paint
Black acrylic paint
Paintbrushes (small and medium)
Water for smoothing the clay
Rolling pin
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pumpkin
Start with a small pumpkin, which can be plastic, foam, or ceramic. These are inexpensive and easy to find at dollar stores during the fall season.
Tip: Make sure the surface is clean and free of any dust, so the clay adheres well!
2. Cover the Pumpkin with Air-Dry Clay
Roll out a large piece of air-dry clay, about ¼ inch thick, to cover the pumpkin. Once it’s rolled out, drape the clay over the top of the pumpkin like a ghostly blanket.
Gently press the clay into the crevices of the pumpkin to capture its shape while keeping the surface smooth.
Use your fingers dipped in water to smooth out any cracks or imperfections.
Tip: Don’t worry if the clay doesn’t cover the bottom perfectly—focus on making the top look ghostly!
3. Add the Ghostly Details
Let your pumpkin dry for at least 24 hours or until the clay feels completely firm.
Once dry, it’s time to transform your pumpkin into a spooky ghost! Using white acrylic paint, paint the entire surface of the pumpkin to give it a clean, ghostly appearance.
Tip: You may need two coats of paint to fully cover the clay.
4. Paint the Ghost Eyes
Now it’s time to give your ghost pumpkin some personality! Use black acrylic paint to create two large, oval-shaped eyes in the middle of the pumpkin.
You can make the eyes as big or as small as you like—it’s fun to play around with different expressions for your ghost.
Display Your Ghost Pumpkins!
Once the paint and sealer are completely dry, your ghost pumpkin is ready to display! Set it on your porch, mantel, or even as part of a spooky tablescape.
This simple craft is a great way to repurpose dollar store pumpkins and create festive, handmade décor for the Halloween season. Plus, it’s a project that’s perfect for kids to join in on, making it a fun family activity!
Have you made your own ghost pumpkins? Share your creations in the comments—I’d love to see how spooky yours turned out!
If you’re looking for the perfect autumn treat that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious, these Chocolate and Pumpkin Hand Pies are it! Imagine biting into a flaky puff pastry filled with warm spiced pumpkin and a hint of rich dark chocolate—pure fall magic. Plus, the festive shapes make them as fun to eat as they are to create, making this recipe a must-try for any fall baking session.
Autumn is a special time in our household, especially for my 8-year-old, Franco. He looks forward to all the festive treats we create together during this time of year, from spooky Halloween cookies to comforting pumpkin-flavored desserts. These hand pies are a particular favorite because they’re as fun to make as they are to eat. Franco loves helping out in the kitchen, especially when he gets to choose which autumn-themed cutters we use to shape our pies.
Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, agave nectar, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir until well mixed.
Roll Out the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth any creases. Use your autumn-themed cookie cutters to cut out an even number of shapes—these will form the tops and bottoms of your hand pies.
Assemble the Hand Pies:
Place half of the cut-out shapes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Spoon a small amount of the pumpkin mixture into the center of each shape, leaving a border around the edges.
Add a few dark chocolate chips on top of the pumpkin filling.
Seal the Pies:
Brush the edges of each filled shape with a bit of water, then place a second cut-out shape on top.
Gently press the edges together with your fingers, and then use a fork to crimp the edges and seal the pies.
Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water. Brush the tops of each hand pie with the egg wash to give them a golden, glossy finish.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the hand pies for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
Cool and Serve: Allow the hand pies to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them warm with a cup of spiced tea or hot chocolate!
Tips for Success
Keep It Cold: Make sure your puff pastry stays cold while working with it. If it becomes too warm, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes before continuing.
Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top for extra flavor and texture.
Make Ahead: These hand pies can be assembled and frozen before baking. Just pop them in the oven directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Why You’ll Love These Hand Pies
These Chocolate and Pumpkin Hand Pies are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the rich taste of dark chocolate complementing the warm, spiced pumpkin filling. The puff pastry gives each pie a delightful flakiness, and the autumn-themed shapes make them as fun to look at as they are to eat.
Whether you’re making them for a fall gathering or just to enjoy with your family, these hand pies are sure to become a seasonal favorite. Plus, they’re the perfect size for little hands to hold, making them a hit with kids too!
What’s your favorite fall dessert? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to share your creations if you try this recipe!
If motherhood has you stressed and you feel like you’ve lost your creativity, I am here to help! Here you will find easy recipes, simple DIY’s, affordable styles, and what to read next. I believe we all have a creative side, some of us just need a little help to find it. I will help inspire you to have creative expression without standards.
