Every fall, Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese returns to the freezer aisle, and fans couldn’t be happier. Known for flying off the shelves and inspiring shoppers to grab multiple boxes at a time, this fan-favorite is back—and it’s better than ever!
Why We Love This
Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese combines creamy butternut squash purée with a comforting cheese blend, including gouda and parmesan, for the ultimate fall comfort food. It strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet, offering a seasonal twist to the classic mac and cheese everyone loves. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you need a quick, warm meal that tastes homemade, it’s no surprise that shoppers hoard up to 12 boxes of this freezer gem!
Nutritional Facts
- Calories per serving: 250
- Total Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 11g
Ingredients
Mezzi Rigatoni Pasta (Semolina, Durum Wheat Flour, Water, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Butternut Squash, Bechamel Sauce (Milk [Milk, Skim Milk, Vitamin A Palmitate, Vitamin D3], Unbleached Enriched Flour [Wheat Flour, Malted Barley Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid], Butter [Cream, Salt], White Pepper), Gouda Cheese (Pasteurized Milk, Cheese Cultures, Microbial Enzyme, Beta-Carotene [Color], Cellulose Powder), Cheddar Cheese (Pasteurized Milk, Cheese Culture, Salt, Microbial Enzyme, Annatto [Color], Cellulose Powder), Parmesan Cheese (Pasteurized Part Skim Milk, Cheese Culture, Salt, Microbial Enzyme, Cellulose Powder), Potassium Hydroxide, Salt, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Mustard (Distilled Vinegar, Water, Mustard Seed, Sea Salt, Spices, Turmeric), Nutmeg, Sage, Black Pepper, Thyme, Cayenne Pepper.
Preparation Instructions
Making this Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese is incredibly easy:
- Microwave method: Remove the tray from the box, cut a slit in the film, and microwave on high for 3-4 minutes. Stir and microwave for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Oven method: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Remove the film from the tray and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Versatility of Use
While this mac & cheese is fantastic on its own, it’s also incredibly versatile:
- Add sautéed spinach or kale for a healthy boost.
- Toss in crispy bacon bits or sausage for a heartier meal.
- Use it as a side dish for roasted chicken or turkey for a fall-inspired dinner.
- Pair with a simple side salad to round out the meal.
What Customers Say
Customers rave about the perfect balance of flavors, with the sweetness of the butternut squash complementing the rich, gooey cheese. Many admit to “hoarding” multiple boxes to ensure they have enough to last through the fall season. One shopper commented, “I buy at least 10 every time it hits the shelves! It’s my go-to comfort food during fall.”
Final Say
Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese has earned its place as a fall staple for good reason. With its creamy texture, rich cheese blend, and comforting butternut squash flavor, it’s a must-buy for fans of seasonal comfort foods. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or jazzing it up with your favorite add-ins, this freezer favorite is worth stocking up on. Hurry and grab it before it sells out—you’ll want plenty in your freezer!
