Mac-o’-Lantern & Cheese Bowls
Mac-o’-Lantern & Cheese Bowls offer a delightful twist on classic mac and cheese, served in adorable mini pumpkins. This whimsical dish combines creamy macaroni and a rich cheese sauce nestled inside vibrant pumpkins, making it perfect for Halloween celebrations or cozy family dinners. Each bite delivers warmth and nostalgia, transforming a simple meal into a festive experience that will impress guests of all ages.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 small pumpkins (about the size of grapefruits)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the pumpkins and scoop out the insides.
- Cook macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour until bubbly. Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce; season with salt and pepper.
- Fill each pumpkin with the mac and cheese mixture.
- Place pumpkins on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pumpkin bowl (about 300g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 830mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Customize by mixing different cheeses or adding cooked bacon for extra flavor. For added spice, incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of paprika into the cheese sauce.