Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the savory richness of tomatoes with the sweet, earthy notes of pumpkin. Imagine your kitchen filled with the warm aroma of garlic and herbs mingling in the air while a bubbling, cheesy pasta bake emerges from the oven like a golden treasure waiting to be discovered. savory pumpkin soup recipe delicious pumpkin breakfast option. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy mushroom chicken lasagna recipe.
This recipe isn’t just for dinner; it’s perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. I remember the first time I made this dish for a group of friends; their eyes lit up as they took their first bites. colorful roasted vegetable medley The combination of flavors was so enchanting that it sparked an impromptu sing-along to our favorite tunes, proving that good food really does bring people together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- Its unique flavor profile balances sweetness and acidity perfectly, tantalizing your taste buds
- With its vibrant colors and cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to impress at any dinner table
- Versatile enough for year-round enjoyment, you can easily adapt it to suit seasonal ingredients
I once served this dish at a fall potluck, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pasta: Choose your favorite variety like penne or fusilli; they hold sauce well and add great texture.
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Canned Pumpkin: Use pure pumpkin puree for its creamy texture and natural sweetness; avoid pumpkin pie filling.
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Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole or diced tomatoes; they provide rich flavor and vibrant color.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential here; their aroma elevates the entire dish.
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Onion: A medium onion adds depth; sauté until translucent for the best flavor.
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Cheese: Mozzarella is ideal for melting, while Parmesan adds a savory finish; feel free to mix!
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Herbs and Spices: Use Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil and thyme for added fragrance and flavor.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances flavors during cooking; choose high-quality extra virgin oil if possible.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat Your Oven : Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even baking later on.
Sauté Onions and Garlic : Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and golden brown.
Add Pumpkin and Tomatoes : Stir in canned pumpkin and tomatoes into the skillet. Cook until heated through, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Season the Sauce : Sprinkle in your chosen herbs, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 5-10 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Cook Pasta al Dente : In a separate pot, boil salted water. Add pasta and cook just until al dente—about 2 minutes less than package instructions recommend.
Combine Everything : Drain pasta and mix it into the pumpkin tomato sauce until evenly coated. Then transfer everything into a greased baking dish.
Add Cheese Topping : Generously sprinkle mozzarella on top, followed by a dusting of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Bake Until Golden : Place your baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese bubbles and turns golden brown.
Now you have created a mouthwatering Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce! Enjoy each bite filled with warmth reminiscent of cozy family gatherings or festive celebrations! For more inspiration, check out this creamy sun-dried tomato pasta recipe.
You Must Know
- This delightful pasta bake with pumpkin tomato sauce is creamy, comforting, and great for meal prep
- The blend of flavors creates a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen, making it perfect for family dinners
- Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in veggies!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking your pasta al dente. While it cooks, sauté garlic and onions until fragrant. Then combine the pumpkin and tomatoes before mixing everything together for the perfect bake.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap pumpkin for butternut squash or add spinach for more greens. Experiment with spices like nutmeg or chili flakes to turn up the flavor!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make this dish extra creamy, add some ricotta cheese before baking
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; you want it firm enough to hold up in the bake
- For a crispy top, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan before baking
Cooking this pasta bake with pumpkin tomato sauce reminds me of a chilly autumn evening when my friends gathered around, devouring every bite while sharing stories and laughter. It was a hit!
FAQ
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pumpkin works beautifully; just roast and puree it first.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Substitute cheese with nutritional yeast and use plant-based milk for creaminess.
What can I serve with pasta bake?
A simple side salad complements this dish perfectly and adds freshness to your meal. perfect side dish for pasta.
Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce is a cozy, comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. This recipe features tender pasta enveloped in a creamy, flavorful sauce made from sweet pumpkin and savory tomatoes, topped with melted cheese. It’s not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser at gatherings or family dinners, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- Stir in the pumpkin puree and diced tomatoes; season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- In a separate pot, cook the penne pasta until al dente; drain.
- Combine the pasta with the sauce in the skillet.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
