24 Hours only: Cyber Monday Flash Sale

Menu
Search Notes
Search Notes
Search Forum

One-Pan Creamy Butternut Squash & Chicken Mac and Cheese

Serving Size

Makes 6-8 Servings

Ingredients

  • 12 oz whole-wheat pasta (elbow works great)
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 3 cups peeled, finely diced butternut squash
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¾ cup shredded sharp white cheddar, divided
  • ¼ cup ricotta cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  • Sauté the squash. Heat olive oil in a large, deep, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butternut squash and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beginning to soften. Add a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.
  • Build the sauce. Stir in the garlic, sage, and thyme and cook for 30 seconds. Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1 minute. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, stirring until smooth.
  • Cook the pasta. Stir in the uncooked macaroni. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 10–14 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a little extra broth if the pan becomes too dry before the pasta is tender.
  • Make it creamy. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cooked chicken, mozzarella, ricotta, and ½ cup cheddar until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Finish and serve. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar over the top. Cover for 1–2 minutes, until melted, or broil briefly if your skillet is broiler-safe. Serve warm.

Notes

Vegetarian/No Chicken: Cook without chicken and with vegetable broth if you are vegetarian or making it as a side dish. Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend. Adjust the broth and cooking time as needed. Make Ahead: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3–4 days. Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.

Related Notes