Ingredients
• 8 oz Halloween-shaped pasta (bats, pumpkins, ghosts) or regular elbow macaroni
• 3 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or mix with pepper jack for heat)
• ½ cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened – for color & creaminess!)
• ½ tsp mustard powder (or 1 tsp Dijon)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Optional toppings:
• Crushed black crackers (“dirt”)
• Olive “spider eyes” (olives with toothpicks)
• Bacon bits (“witches’ hair”)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute (don’t brown).
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Simmer 3–4 minutes until thickened.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, pumpkin puree, mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until melted and velvety.
- Remove from heat. Stir in cooked pasta until well coated.
- Serve hot in bowls and decorate with spooky toppings for Halloween fun!
✨ Great for kids’ parties, school events, or a themed family dinner!
💡 Make it extra orange: Use carrot-infused milk or a pinch of turmeric (use sparingly!).
PREP TIME & NUTRITION :
Prep Time : 10 mins , Cook Time : 15 mins , Total Time : 25 mins , Servings : 4 , Calories : 420 , Net Carbs: 36g , Fats: 24g , Protein: 18g