This Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese is a cozy twist on a classic favorite. Creamy cheese combines with sweet potatoes for a rich, smooth dish that’s super satisfying!
If you’re like me, you might find yourself going back for seconds (or thirds!). It’s so good, you won’t even realize it has veggies in it. Perfect for any cheesy cravings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish, bringing a natural sweetness and creamy texture. If you don’t have sweet potatoes, butternut squash is a great alternative.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor contrast against the sweet potatoes. If you want something milder or creamier, try a mix of Monterey Jack or Gruyère instead.
Elbow Macaroni: Traditional for mac and cheese, but feel free to swap in any pasta shape you like, such as shells or penne. Gluten-free pasta works well too if needed.
Whole Milk: This adds creaminess. You can substitute with 2% milk or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, but make sure it’s unsweetened!
How Do I Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Making a smooth cheese sauce is key to this dish’s success. Start with a roux (butter and flour mixture) and slowly add the milk while whisking constantly. This prevents lumps from forming.
- Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour for about 2 minutes to cook it.
- Gradually add the milk, continuing to whisk.
- Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, around 5-7 minutes.
- Once thickened, stir in the cheese until melted and smooth.
With these tips and techniques, you’ll be on your way to making delicious Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese—perfect for family meals or a cozy night in!
Delicious Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 1/2 cups mashed)
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cups whole milk
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese takes about 15 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes for cooking. Total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes to enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish or casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into cubes. Boil or steam them until they’re very tender, which should take around 15-20 minutes. Drain the sweet potatoes and mash them until smooth. Set the mashed sweet potatoes aside for later.
3. Cook the Macaroni:
In a separate pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the macaroni and set it aside as well.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly to create a roux.
5. Add the Milk:
Gradually whisk in the whole milk, making sure to avoid lumps. Keep whisking for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
6. Mix in the Sweet Potatoes:
Stir in the mashed sweet potatoes along with the garlic powder, smoked paprika, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Blend everything well until the sauce is smooth and combined.
7. Incorporate the Cheese:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 2 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and all of the mozzarella. Keep stirring until all the cheese has melted and the mixture is creamy.
8. Combine with Macaroni:
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and gently stir until every piece of pasta is nicely coated.
9. Bake:
Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
10. Cool and Garnish:
Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a beautiful finish.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese—comfort food with a sweet twist!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and mozzarella provide great flavor and creaminess, you can mix in other cheeses like fontina, gouda, or even pepper jack for a little kick. Just ensure the cheese melts well!
How Do I Store Leftover Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to help restore the creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Definitely! Substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta, and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour in the sauce. The dish will still be equally delicious!
What Can I Serve It With?
This Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even some baked chicken for a heartier meal. Enjoy!