Prepare to revolutionize your mac and cheese experience with a mouthwatering twist that will make your taste buds dance! This Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese Bake isn't just another boring pasta dish – it's a creamy, nutritious, and absolutely irresistible comfort food that transforms the classic mac and cheese into a gourmet masterpiece. Imagine the rich, velvety sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes blending perfectly with gooey, melted cheese and perfectly cooked pasta – this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups macaroni
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well-blended.
- Add cooked macaroni and 1½ cups of shredded cheese to the sweet potato mixture. Stir gently to ensure even coating.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese and breadcrumbs over the top of the dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and cheese is bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the dish to set.
- Serve hot and enjoy your creamy sweet potato mac and cheese bake.
Tips
- Sweet Potato Pro Tip: Use roasted or steamed sweet potatoes for the richest, most developed flavor. Mash them thoroughly to create a smooth, creamy base.
- Cheese Selection: Don't be afraid to mix different cheeses! A blend of sharp cheddar and mild mozzarella can add depth to your dish.
- Breadcrumb Hack: For extra crunch, toast your breadcrumbs in a little butter before sprinkling on top for a golden, crispy texture.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Moisture Control: If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash more milk to ensure a creamy consistency.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the dish rest for exactly 5 minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and make serving easier.
- Nutrition Boost: The sweet potatoes add extra nutrients and a beautiful color to this classic comfort food, making it a slightly healthier option.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
