In contrast to more traditional mac and cheese recipes, this one consists of mostly of wholefood ingredients and doesn't include any butter or heavy amounts of cheese. It's therefore high in nutrients and fiber. Pumpkin contains high amounts of beta-carotene (an antioxidant), vitamin A, C, B-vitamins, copper and folate. Read more about the health benefits of pumpkin here. Nutritional yeast (especially if it's fortified) also provides some vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B2, B3, B6, B12 and iron.