Harvest Moon Macaroni Ala Rachael Ray Recipe

Inspired by Rachael Ray's 30-Minute Meals (10/25/08 episode!), this creamy Harvest Moon Macaroni is a fall flavor explosion! Butternut squash adds sweetness and richness to perfectly cooked pasta in a dreamy cheese sauce. This recipe is easily adaptable – use pre-roasted squash or even butternut squash baby food for a quicker prep! Impress your family with this comforting and delicious dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Calories 637.3 kcal
Protein 52g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Harvest Moon Macaroni Ala Rachael Ray

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Harvest Moon Macaroni Ala Rachael Ray

  • Macaroni
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • Yellow Onion
  • Garlic Cloves
  • Fresh Thyme
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Chicken Stock
  • Whole Milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • Frozen Butternut Squash
  • A few dashes hot sauce
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese
  • Fresh Parsley Leaves
  • Sweet Paprika

How to Make Harvest Moon Macaroni Ala Rachael Ray

  1. Cook 1 pound pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
  2. Preheat broiler.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté 1 medium onion, chopped, and 2 cloves garlic, minced, until softened (6-7 minutes). Stir in 1 teaspoon dried thyme.
  4. Push onions and garlic to one side of the pan. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in the empty space.
  5. Whisk in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, creating a roux.
  6. Gradually whisk in 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock and 1 cup milk. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Cook until thickened (3-4 minutes).
  7. Stir in 1 cup pureed roasted butternut squash (about 1/4 of a medium squash, roasted at 350°F for 1.5 hours) and a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
  8. Reduce heat to low. Once the sauce simmers, stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
  9. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, along with a little pasta water if needed to adjust consistency. Transfer to a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish.
  10. Top with 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
  11. Broil for 3 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and browned.
  12. Garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of paprika.
  13. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

21 g

Sugar

30g

Fat

66g

Carbs

24g