Cooking Instructions
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Step 1
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and place a 9×13 baking dish on a baking sheet, or arrange 6-8 individual ramekins on a baking sheet. Set aside.
Step 2
Bring a large pot of cold water to a boil. Season with Salt (to taste) and add the Penne Pasta (1 pound). Stir often and cook 2 minutes under suggested cooking time (it will finish in the oven). It should not be overly soft. Drain and set aside.
Step 3
To make the pumpkin cheese sauce, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add Butter (3 tablespoon) and melt. Add the All-Purpose Flour (3 tablespoon) and whisk together. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture smells nutty.
Step 4
Stream in the Whole Milk (4 cup) while whisking the entire time. Bring to a simmer and allow the milk to thicken. You will know the sauce is ready when the back of a wooden spoon is coated and you can leave a line with your finger.
Step 5
Once thickened, season with the Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon), Salt (1 teaspoon), Freshly Ground Black Pepper (1 teaspoon), Dried Thyme (1/2 teaspoon), Onion Powder (1/2 teaspoon), Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon), and Paprika (1/2 teaspoon).
Step 6
Stir in the 100% Pumpkin Purée (3/4 cup).
Step 7
Turn off the heat and add the Cheddar Cheese (2 cup) (reserve a bit for the topping), Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup) (reserve a bit for the topping), and Fontina Cheese (1/4 cup). Stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce is evenly incorporated together.
Step 8
Add the cooked penne pasta and stir to combine. Pour into the baking dish or portion out into the individual ramekins. Top with reserved cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese.
Step 9
To make the sage breadcrumb toppings, heat a small pot over low heat. Add Butter (2 tablespoon) melt. Add the Fresh Sage (2 tablespoon) and cook until crispy, about a minute. Remove from heat and allow to slightly cool.
Step 10
In a small bowl, combine the Panko Breadcrumbs (1/4 cup) and plain Breadcrumbs (1/4 cup). Add the crispy fresh sage and butter. Stir with a spoon and sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
Step 11
Bake in the center rack for about 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly. Serve right away.
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