Mac-O-Lantern and Cheese (Printable)

Macaroni and triple cheese baked inside a tender pumpkin, topped with golden panko and fresh parsley.

# Components:

→ Pumpkin Vessel

01 - 1 medium sugar pumpkin (about 3–4 lbs), top sliced off and seeds removed

→ Pasta

02 - 12 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta shells

→ Cheese Sauce

03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
05 - 2 cups whole milk
06 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
07 - 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
08 - 3 ounces Gruyère cheese, grated
09 - 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated
10 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
12 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
13 - 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

→ Topping

14 - 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
15 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
16 - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
17 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

# Method:

01 - Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow to fully preheat.
02 - Carefully slice the top off the pumpkin to create a lid. Scoop out seeds and stringy pulp. Lightly season the interior with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set the pumpkin on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
03 - Place the prepared pumpkin (lid set aside) in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes until the flesh is slightly soft but the pumpkin remains structurally intact.
04 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 1–2 minutes before the package timing. Drain and set aside.
05 - Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1 minute. Gradually pour in the milk and cream, whisking continuously. Cook until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 3–4 minutes.
06 - Lower the heat. Stir in grated cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan until smooth. Add salt, pepper, nutmeg, and Dijon mustard. Remove from the heat once cheeses are fully melted.
07 - Fold the cooked macaroni into the hot cheese sauce. Mix until noodles are evenly coated.
08 - Spoon the macaroni and cheese mixture into the partially baked pumpkin, allowing space for bubbling. Do not overfill.
09 - In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, grated Parmesan, and parsley. Sprinkle evenly over the filled pumpkin.
10 - Return the pumpkin (without its lid) to the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, until the filling is bubbling and the pumpkin flesh is exceptionally tender when pierced. If desired, bake the pumpkin lid alongside for the final 15 minutes.
11 - Allow the pumpkin to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Scoop portions that include both cheesy pasta and some roasted pumpkin flesh for optimal presentation and taste.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready for the oven in about twenty five minutes so you are not standing in the kitchen all day
  • A beautiful centerpiece that feels festive but is totally achievable
  • Vegetarian and kid friendly with layers of flavor
  • Can be customized with add ins like mushrooms or leafy greens for a personal twist
02 -
  • Contains three types of cheese so every bite is packed with deep flavor
  • Pumpkin adds vitamins and festive color for a seasonal touch
  • Makes beautiful leftovers perfect for work lunches
  • A guaranteed conversation starter at potlucks and holiday gatherings
03 -
  • Always grate your own cheese for the sauce pre shredded does not melt as well
  • Do not skip blind baking the pumpkin or it may be too firm to scoop
  • Use a whisk and patience for the cheese sauce stirring helps keep it silky
  • A bit of nutmeg creates a signature warmth people will remember
  • Test the pumpkin with a knife before serving it should be tender but not mushy

Return