Healthy Mac and Cheese Recipe (with Butternut Squash)

Name: Healthy Mac and Cheese Recipe (with Butternut Squash)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 head broccoli (about 2-3 cups florets); 3 Tablespoons avocado oil, divided; salt/pepper (to taste); 16 ounces whole wheat elbows or shells (or lentil/chickpea pasta of choice); 1 pound butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups); 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth; 1 1/2 cup milk; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 2 teaspoons nutritional yeast (optional); 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cooked bacon (or protein of choice)

Instructions

Prep:15minCook:40min

This Healthy Squash Mac & Cheese has been a favorite in my family for YEARS! Made with real butternut squash, cheddar cheese (but can also be easily made vegan/dairy-free), roasted broccoli, and topped off with bacon bits or protein of choice, this butternut squash mac & cheese recipe makes for a dinner that everyone will love. Even my picky kids love it!

Updated at: Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:05:21 GMT