Protein Pumpkin Macaroni and Cheese Recipe (Gluten-Free)

This nourishing twist on classic mac & cheese features:

• Pumpkin puree 🌿 – Packed with vitamin A, beta-carotene, and antioxidants to support skin renewal and a youthful glow.
• Chickpea pasta 🍝 – A protein and fiber powerhouse that keeps you feeling full while providing zinc and magnesium for healthy, elastic skin.
• Turmeric & Greek yogurt 💛 – Natural anti-inflammatory ingredients that support gut health (hello, clear skin!) while adding a rich, creamy texture.

Whether you're looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a healthier holiday side dish, this protein-rich, creamy, and comforting mac & cheese delivers!

Ingredients

• 8 oz chickpea pasta
• 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ⅔ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling!)
• ½ cup bone broth* (or low-sodium chicken stock)
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ⅓ cup reserved pasta water
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp turmeric** (optional, for anti-inflammatory benefits)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add chickpea pasta and cook for 8 minutes (or as directed on the package).
• Drain, rinse with warm water, and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2️⃣ Make the Creamy Pumpkin Cheese Sauce

• In the same pot, melt butter over low heat.
• Add garlic, onion, chili powder, paprika, and turmeric.
• Sauté for 3-4 minutes until onions are soft and translucent.

3️⃣ Add the Creamy Goodness

• Stir in bone broth, Greek yogurt, and pumpkin puree.
• Whisk until the mixture is smooth and velvety.
• Add reserved pasta water and shredded cheese, stirring until completely melted and combined.

4️⃣ Combine & Thicken

• Gently fold in the cooked pasta (chickpea pasta is delicate—handle with love! ❤️).
• Let the mac & cheese thicken for 4-5 minutes on low heat.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Make It Extra Indulgent!

🎄 Holiday-Worthy Baked Version:

• Transfer mac & cheese to a baking dish.
• Top with extra cheese and gluten-free bread crumbs (almond flour works great!).
• Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
• Garnish with fresh parsley.

🥦 Boost the Nutrition: Stir in steamed broccoli or spinach for an extra serving of greens.

🌱 Vegetarian Option: Swap bone broth for vegetable broth.

🌶️ Add a Kick: Top with red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey!

Why Your Skin Will Love This Recipe

This protein-rich, antioxidant-packed dish fights inflammation, boosts collagen production, and nourishes your body inside and out—all while delivering cozy, creamy comfort. ✨

Now go ahead and treat yourself to a bowl of this wholesome, skin-loving mac & cheese!