Description

There's nothing quite like a comforting bowl of pasta, and this Cheesy Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese takes that cozy feeling to a whole new level. Imagine perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, subtly sweetened and brightened by the earthy goodness of sweet potatoes. It’s a vibrant, heartwarming dish that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly nourishing. This delightful Cheesy Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese isn't just a meal; it’s a moment of shared joy, perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a potluck with friends.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound Dry Pasta
2 large Sweet Potatoes
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
3 cloves Garlic
4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
4 cups Whole Milk
2 cups Cheddar Cheese
1 cup Gruyere or Fontina Cheese
1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
Pinch Nutmeg
Salt to taste
Black Pepper to taste
1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until fork-tender
While the sweet potatoes roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant
Whisk in flour and cook, stirring continuously, to form a roux for about 1-2 minutes
Slowly add milk, one cup at a time, whisking continuously until the sauce is thickened and smooth
Reduce heat and stir in cheddar, Gruyere, mustard, paprika, and nutmeg until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper
Incorporate the pureed sweet potato into the cheese sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached
Combine pasta and sauce, stirring gently to coat all pasta
If baking, transfer to a dish, top with panko, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly

Notes

Shred cheese yourself for best melt.

Reserve pasta water for texture.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 500 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 600 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 60 g
Fiber: 6 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 40 mg