Once upon a time in a Trader Joe’s tasting panel, a Product Developer made Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese to prove just how magical Butternut Squash purée is. We loved it so much that it’s graced our freezers ever since!

This Mac & Cheese starts with traditional béchamel sauce before taking a delightfully autumnal turn. Subtly sweet Butternut Squash purée balances a rich, nutty, and tangy blend of Gouda, Cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, while a sprinkling of sage, nutmeg, and thyme adds seasonal aromatics. Regular macaroni is no match for holding a sauce this rich, so mezzi rigatoni does the heavy lifting with its ribbed texture and hollow shape. Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese makes for a creamy side dish, an elevated weekday lunch, and an indulgent way to eat your vegetables.