Irresistible Pumpkin Sage Mac and Cheese for Fall

There’s nothing quite like curling up with a bowl of Pumpkin Sage Mac and Cheese when the air turns crisp and autumn leaves start to fall. This creamy, flavorful pasta is the perfect mix of comfort food and seasonal flair, combining rich cheddar cheese, velvety pumpkin puree, and earthy fresh sage. The result? A comforting pumpkin pasta dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Whether you’re planning an autumn cozy dinner, looking for an easy weeknight meal, or need a crowd-pleasing side dish for the holidays, this recipe delivers. With a luscious creamy pumpkin sauce infused with sage, it’s both nourishing and indulgent, making it an effortless fall dinner that the whole family will love.

If you enjoy seasonal recipes, you may also like our fall pumpkin muffins or savory butternut sweet potato soup for another taste of autumn.

Save

Why Pumpkin Sage Mac and Cheese Is the Ultimate Comfort Food

Classic mac and cheese is already beloved, but adding pumpkin and sage takes it to another level. Pumpkin adds creaminess without making the dish heavy, while sage infuses it with a woodsy aroma that screams fall. Together, they transform a childhood favorite into a sophisticated, nourishing comfort food perfect for adults and kids alike.

Another reason this dish shines is its versatility. It can be served as a main course for an autumn-inspired pasta dish or as a holiday side alongside roasted meats and vegetables. And because it comes together quickly, it works beautifully as a quick 25-minute dinner.

For another cozy side dish that doubles as comfort food, check out our beef potato casserole.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Pumpkin Sage Mac and Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this sage-infused pasta comfort dish to life:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh sage leaves, finely chopped
• Optional garnish: extra Parmesan, breadcrumbs, or crispy sage leaves

This simple list of ingredients creates a rich yet balanced creamy pumpkin sauce for pasta.

Best Pasta Choices for Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice, but you can use almost any pasta shape. Short, ridged pasta like penne, rigatoni, or cavatappi works especially well because it holds the creamy sauce beautifully. For a healthier twist, you can also use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options.

If you’re looking for more pasta dinner inspiration, try our white lasagna or bruschetta pasta for unique flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin Sage Mac and Cheese

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Roux
   In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
3. Add Milk
   Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps remain. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Stir in Pumpkin and Cheese
   Add pumpkin puree, cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Infuse with Sage
   Stir in chopped sage leaves and simmer for another 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce
   Toss cooked pasta into the pumpkin sage cheese sauce until well coated.
7. Optional Topping
   For added texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs and extra Parmesan on top. Broil for 2–3 minutes until golden.

Serve immediately for the ultimate warm and cozy pasta experience.

Save

Tips for a Perfectly Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce

• Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest melt.
• Warm the milk before adding to the roux for fewer lumps.
• Add pumpkin gradually to control creaminess.
• Taste and adjust seasonings—pumpkin pairs well with nutmeg and cayenne if you want a flavor boost.

These tips ensure your creamy pumpkin sauce stays velvety and rich.

How Fresh Sage Elevates This Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Sage is one of those herbs that instantly reminds you of autumn. Its earthy, slightly peppery flavor cuts through the richness of the cheese and balances the natural sweetness of pumpkin. You can chop it finely and stir it into the sauce, or fry whole sage leaves in butter until crispy to use as a garnish. Either way, it’s the secret to turning this pasta into true sage-infused pasta comfort.

Variations: Make It Gluten-Free, Vegan, or Spicy

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour.
• Vegan: Swap dairy milk for almond or oat milk, and use vegan cheese. Add nutritional yeast for extra cheesiness.
• Spicy: Stir in red pepper flakes, cayenne, or chipotle powder for heat.

This flexibility makes it an easy weeknight meal that everyone can enjoy, no matter their dietary needs.

For another adaptable recipe, try our spicy chicken spaghetti casserole.

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese as a Holiday Side Dish

This dish is not only a cozy autumn dinner, but it also doubles as a fantastic holiday side dish. Its golden-orange hue and seasonal flavors fit perfectly alongside Thanksgiving turkey, Christmas roasts, or a festive fall potluck.

Pair it with hearty dishes like ranch garlic parmesan chicken skewers for a balanced holiday table.

Serving Ideas for Pumpkin Sage Mac and Cheese

• Top with crispy sage or fried onions for crunch.
• Serve in small ramekins for individual portions at a dinner party.
• Add roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or cauliflower for extra nutrition.

This transforms your dish from an effortless fall dinner into something special enough for entertaining.

Pairing Suggestions: What Goes Well with Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Pumpkin Sage Mac and Cheese pairs beautifully with:

• A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
• Roasted chicken or turkey
• Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls
• Seasonal soups like garlic potato soup

These sides enhance the richness of the pasta while keeping the meal balanced.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
• Avoid freezing, as the creamy texture may separate.

With this method, your warm and cozy pasta tastes just as good the next day.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Pumpkin Sage Mac and Cheese

• Overcooking pasta—it will soften further when tossed with sauce.
• Skipping the roux, which helps thicken the sauce properly.
• Adding cheese to boiling-hot sauce, which can cause clumping.
• Using pumpkin pie filling instead of plain puree.

Avoiding these pitfalls guarantees success every time.

Save

FAQs About Pumpkin Sage Mac and Cheese

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine before serving.

Can I use canned pumpkin?
Absolutely—just make sure it’s 100% pumpkin puree.

What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar adds tang, while Parmesan gives depth. Gruyère or fontina also work well.

Is this kid-friendly?
Yes! The pumpkin adds creaminess without overpowering the cheese flavor.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Pumpkin Sage Mac and Cheese is the ultimate fall comfort food—creamy, flavorful, and full of seasonal charm. Whether you’re making it as an autumn cozy dinner, a quick 25-minute dinner, or a festive holiday side, it’s guaranteed to satisfy. With its balance of pumpkin sweetness, cheesy richness, and sage’s earthy touch, it’s a recipe worth repeating all season long.

If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more autumn-inspired pasta dishes, comforting meals, and seasonal favorites.

Print