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+ servings
Halloween Pumpkin Ale Mac and Cheese

Halloween Pumpkin Ale Mac and Cheese That's Spooktacularly Good

This Halloween Pumpkin Ale Mac and Cheese is a festive twist on comfort food, blending pumpkin ale with creamy cheddar for a spooktacularly delicious dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Sauce
  • 1 cup Pumpkin Ale Swap with a non-beer variety for a different flavor.
  • 2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Use non-dairy cheese for a vegan twist.
  • 1/4 cup Flour Gluten-free flour can work too.
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream Half-and-half or milk can be lighter alternatives.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Black Bean Rotini Any pasta works but adds no Halloween flair.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Neutral oils can be substituted.
Optional Toppings
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Use cautiously to not overpower the dish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric A little adds depth.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the black bean rotini and cook until al dente, about 7–9 minutes. Drain and drizzle with olive oil.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of flour until lightly golden, about 2 minutes. Gradually pour in 2 cups of heavy cream, whisking to prevent lumps.
  3. Once thickened, reduce heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted. Add 1 cup of pumpkin ale, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric. Mix well.
  4. Toss the cooked pasta with olive oil, then pour the cheese sauce over just before serving. Serve in a large bowl for guests to pour over their pasta.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 20gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Maintain color contrast by serving pasta and sauce separately. High-quality cheese is essential for the best melting experience.

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