Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese

Ingredients

• 4 cups frozen butternut squash cubes
• 4 tbs butter
• 1 tsp kosher salt, divided
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  Pinch cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme
• 4 oz shredded cheddar
• 4 oz goat cheese
• 1 lb large pasta shells or other short pasta

Directions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high, combine squash and ¼ cup water. Cover and cook (stirring occasionally), until tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Uncover and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until liquid evaporates, 2 to 3 minutes.
3. Add butter, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ tsp pepper and stir until butter is melted. Add flour and stir to incorporate. Cook, stirring constantly, until squash mixture thickens, and raw flour has had a chance to cook, 2 to 3 minutes. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly. Add garlic powder, cayenne, and thyme and bring to a simmer. Add cheddar and goat cheese, stirring until melted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Add pasta to boiling water and cook 3 minutes short of package instructions. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water, and return to pot.
5. Meanwhile, transfer squash mixture to a blender and puree until smooth (you should have just over 4 cups).
6. Place the pot with cooked pasta over medium-low heat and stir in sauce until coated. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes. Add splashes of pasta water to loosen until you’ve reached your desired consistency.

Servings: 4-6