Smoky Pumpkin Mac and Cheese with Garlicky Breadcrumbs

Step 1

Melt the butter over medium-high heat in a sauté pan. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring occasionally. Add Panko, rosemary, salt and pepper. Continue sautéing, stirring occasionally, until the Panko reaches a toasted golden brown color. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2

Cook the pasta in a large stockpot of generously-salted boiling water until just barely al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside. Drain the pasta and return it to the stockpot.

Step 3

Add the smoked gouda, Parmesan, pumpkin purée, warmed milk, smoked paprika, spinach and ½ cup of the starchy pasta water to the pasta. Stir until the cheese is combined and has melted into a smooth and creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick or the cheese has not fully melted, add in an extra ¼ to ½ cup of the starchy pasta water as needed.

Step 4

Serve. Serve immediately, garnishing each portion with a generous sprinkling of garlicky breadcrumbs.