When the leaves start to change colors and it gets a bit cooler outside, I think of one thing: pumpkin recipes! If you’re looking for a quick, cozy meal that’s ready in under 10 minutes my Pumpkin Mac and Cheese in a Mug is here to save the day! It’s cheesy, creamy, and has just a hint of pumpkin, making it the ultimate cozy dish. Plus, it’s so easy that even kids can help make it!
Table of Contents
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Made entirely in the microwave in less than 10 minutes. I love simple microwave recipes like this one and sweet treats like Microwave S’mores Mug Cakes and Microwave Chocolate Chip Sea Salt Cookie for ONE.
- Minimal Cleanup: You only need a mug and a spoon, making it a low-effort, quick clean-up meal.
- Kid-Friendly: Little ones love this cheesy goodness! It’s a great way to get in some pumpkin (and its nutrients) without them even noticing. Looking for similar mac and cheeses that add some veggies? Try Green Mac and Cheese or Butternut Squash Macaroni and Cheese.
- Perfect Portion: Whether it’s a snack, lunch, or light dinner, this mac and cheese in a mug serves just the right amount.
The Ingredients
- Small Pasta: Fusilli and macaroni are perfect for this recipe, but any small pasta works. Fusilli’s ridges hold the cheesy sauce, while macaroni gives you that classic mac and cheese vibe.
- Milk of Choice: This adds creaminess to the dish. You can use whatever milk you have on hand—dairy or non-dairy, like almond milk or oat milk. It helps make the sauce smooth and rich.
- Pumpkin Purée: Pumpkin is the star ingredient here! It adds a mild, sweet flavor, plus some extra creaminess without needing butter or cream. Bonus: it’s packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is a classic for mac and cheese, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or a blend.
Substitutions and Variations
- Pasta: While macaroni is a classic choice, you can use any small pasta like fusilli or shells. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works just as well for a healthier or gluten-free option.
- Cheese: Use cheddar for a sharp, cheesy flavor, or swap it for mozzarella, gouda, or a Mexican blend if you like experimenting with different tastes.
- Milk: Any milk will work—almond, soy, or oat milk are great dairy-free alternatives. Make your own Homemade Almond Milk or Homemade Oat Milk if you feel!
- Pumpkin Puree: Not a fan of pumpkin? You can swap it with sweet potato puree or even butternut squash puree for a similar taste and texture.
How to Make Pumpkin Mac and Cheese in a Mug
Step 1: Cook pasta and water for 1:30-2 minutes in a 10 ounce mug stopping a few times towards the end to stir to prevent water from boiling over.
Step 2: Add milk, pumpkin puree and salt and and continue cooking for 1-2 minutes stopping to stir occasionally. Cover and allow to rest for 3-5 minutes. Check pasta to make sure it’s cooked through.
Step 3: Stir in cheese, cover for 1 minute until melted and serve. The macaroni and cheese will continue to thicken the longer it sits.
Tips and Tricks
- Stir Often: To prevent the water from boiling over, stir every 30 seconds while the pasta cooks. This also ensures even cooking.
- Let It Rest: Letting the mac and cheese sit for a few minutes covered helps the pasta soak up the liquid, making the sauce thicker and creamier.
- Watch Your Microwave: Every microwave is different, so adjust the cooking time based on your microwave’s power to avoid overcooking.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the cheesy goodness, and it’s a fun recipe they can help with!
FAQs
Yes! Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and a dairy-free cheese to keep it just as creamy and delicious!
Sure! I would boil the pasta to al dente, then drain and return to the pot. Add the milk and pumpkin purée to the pot over medium heat until warmed through. Then stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted and creamy.
More Mac and Cheese Recipes
The fact that I keep milk, pasta, cheese and pumpkin on hand at all times is a bonus to the ease of making this mug pumpkin mac and cheese. It’s the ultimate fall comfort food that’s quick, easy, and kid-approved, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy snack. Let me know what you think of this recipe by leaving a comment and rating below!
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Pumpkin Mac and Cheese in a Mug
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup small pasta fusilli, macaroni or shells would work
- 1/2 cup water
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- kosher or sea salt
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Cook pasta and water for 1:30-2 minutes in a 10 ounce mug stopping a few times towards the end to stir to prevent water from boiling over.
- Add milk, pumpkin puree and salt and and continue cooking for 1-2 minutes stopping to stir occasionally. Cover and allow to rest for 3-5 minutes. Check pasta to make sure it’s cooked through.
- Stir in cheese, cover for 1 minutes until melted and serve.
Video
Notes
- Stir Often: To prevent the water from boiling over, stir every 30 seconds while the pasta cooks. This also ensures even cooking.
- Let It Rest: Letting the mac and cheese sit for a few minutes covered helps the pasta soak up the liquid, making the sauce thicker and creamier.
- Watch Your Microwave: Every microwave is different, so adjust the cooking time based on your microwave’s power to avoid overcooking.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the cheesy goodness, and it’s a fun recipe they can help with!
How would I make enough for 4 people on the stove top instead of the microwave?