Not only is butternut squash great for your baby's first puree, but it also makes a crave-worthy dinner for the entire family! You’ll love this Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese for toddlers and kids (and even you)!

Nutritional Information

• High levels of antioxidants and vitamins A and C, which boosts the immune system and reduces inflammation.
• A good source of potassium which helps keep bones healthy and our heartbeat regular.
• Contains a protein that may be a potent anticancer agent.
• Provides calcium to help strengthen bones and folate to help with brain development.

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Age: 12+ months 

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta, any shape
• 3 cups butternut squash, cooked
• 1 cup milk, divided
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp paprika
• 3 tbsp butter
• 8 oz cheddar cheese, grated (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
• pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to the package directions. IMPORTANT: reserve 1 cup of pasta water. 
2. In a blender or food processor, add the cooked butternut squash, 1/2 cup of milk, garlic, onion, paprika, and salt, and puree for 1-2 minutes or until completely smooth. 
3. Drain pasta. In the same pot, over medium-low heat, add the butter and melt. Add in the butternut squash puree.  
4. Add in the pasta and stir. 
5. Add in the parmesan, half of the cheddar cheese, and the rest of the milk. Stir until the cheese is melted. Add in the rest of the cheese and stir until the cheese is melted. Add in some or all of the reserved water to thin out the sauce. 

Notes 

Age: great for 12+ months of age 

Notes on Butternut Squash: to cook butternut squash, you can steam fresh or frozen butternut squash for 10 minutes or roast cubes of butternut squash for 30 minutes or until tender. 

If Serving to a Baby under 1: you can omit the cheese or cut the amount in half. 

Storage: in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days