Pumpkin Mac and Cheese (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 6 ounces mezzi rigatoni or preferred pasta (about 3-4 cups)
02 - 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
03 - 3/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk or heavy cream
04 - 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
05 - 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Aromatics and Herbs

07 - 2 cloves garlic, grated or minced
08 - 2 tablespoons shallot, finely chopped
09 - 1 sprig fresh rosemary
10 - 2 sage leaves
11 - 1 bay leaf

→ Seasonings

12 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
13 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
14 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
15 - 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
16 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
17 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

# Instructions:

01 - Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/3 cup pasta water.
02 - Melt butter in medium saucepan. Add shallot, bay leaf, rosemary, and sage. Simmer until fragrant, then add garlic and sauté 1 minute.
03 - Stir in pumpkin puree, then coconut milk and all spices (thyme, paprika, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, pepper). Cook until heated through, simmering 2 minutes while stirring.
04 - Remove and discard herb sprigs and leaves. Add cheddar and parmesan, stirring until melted and smooth.
05 - Add cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to sauce. Fold gently until pasta is evenly coated.
06 - Garnish with freshly grated parmesan if desired.

# Notes:

01 - Can use heavy cream instead of coconut milk
02 - Great as a side dish or vegetarian meal
03 - One-pot recipe