Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

The Basic One-Touch Rice Cooker (CR-0601C) is proof that simple can still be incredibly versatile. While it's perfect for cooking fluffy rice, its one-touch operation also makes preparing comforting one-pot meals quick and effortless with minimal cleanup.

As the weather begins to cool, there's nothing better than a warm bowl of creamy, homemade mac & cheese. This Pumpkin Mac & Cheese combines rich cheddar, creamy pumpkin purée, and cozy fall spices for a seasonal twist on a family favorite, all made right in your rice cooker.

🔗 Watch the full recipe video: youtube.com/shorts/T1RkqS-l8Mk?feature=share  

⏱️ Time:

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

🎃 Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)

• 3 cups water

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 cup canned pumpkin purée

• 1 cup whole milk

• 2 tbsp butter

• ½ tsp ground nutmeg

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Optional Toppings:

• Toasted breadcrumbs

• Fresh parsley, chopped

🍽️ Instructions:

1. Add the elbow macaroni, water, and salt to the inner pot.

2. Close the lid and press the COOK button. Cook until the pasta is al dente, stirring once or twice during cooking if needed to prevent sticking.

3. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the pumpkin purée, whole milk, butter, ground nutmeg, smoked paprika, and black pepper until well combined.

4. Add the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. Switch the rice cooker from COOK to WARM and let the mac & cheese rest for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.

6. Serve warm and garnish with toasted breadcrumbs and fresh parsley, if desired.

Enjoy!