If you are searching for a comforting meal that combines the cozy flavors of fall with the heartiness of pasta, this Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce Recipe will quickly become a favorite. The luscious pumpkin puree melds beautifully with the tangy crushed tomatoes and aromatic herbs, creating a rich sauce that clings to every bite of perfectly cooked penne. Topped with melty mozzarella and a golden crust of Parmesan, this bake is not only deeply satisfying but also vibrant and inviting. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this recipe delivers warmth, flavor, and a touch of seasonal magic all in one dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but essential ingredients makes this dish easy to prepare while ensuring each component brings its unique touch to the plate. From the creamy pumpkin to fresh herbs and cheeses, every ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color.
- Penne pasta (12 ounces): Holds the sauce beautifully with its tube shape for a perfect bite.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Provides a fragrant base for sautéing and adds richness.
- Yellow onion, diced (1 small): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Infuses a bold, aromatic flavor essential for savory dishes.
- Pumpkin puree (1 cup): Creates a velvety, earthy foundation for the sauce.
- Crushed tomatoes (15 ounces): Offers a bright acidity that balances the pumpkin’s creaminess.
- Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Introduces an herby, slightly peppery note.
- Dried basil (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a sweet, warm fragrance to deepen the sauce.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the pumpkin’s natural sweetness with a subtle spiced warmth.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Gives just a hint of heat without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for rounding out and elevating all flavors.
- Vegetable broth or water (1/2 cup): Used to thin the sauce for the perfect consistency.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded (1 cup): Melts beautifully and adds creamy, gooey texture.
- Parmesan cheese, grated (1/4 cup): Sprinkles a nutty, savory crust on top when baked.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Offers a pop of color and fresh brightness as a garnish.
How to Make Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Cook the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms, cook your penne pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente—meaning it still has a slight bite. This texture is key because the pasta will continue to cook in the oven. Once done, drain it and set aside to join the delicious sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and let it cook for 4 to 5 minutes until it becomes tender and translucent. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen and form the flavorful base of the sauce. Then, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds to unleash its fragrant punch without browning or bitterness.
Step 3: Build the Pumpkin Tomato Sauce
Add the pumpkin puree and crushed tomatoes to the skillet along with dried oregano, basil, ground nutmeg, and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Season generously with salt and pepper. Pour in the vegetable broth to loosen the sauce slightly, helping it coat the pasta evenly. Let this mixture simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a rich, creamy sauce that will be the star of your bake.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Transfer the cooked pasta to a large mixing bowl and pour the luscious pumpkin tomato sauce over it. Stir everything until the sauce fully envelops the penne, ensuring every piece is deliciously coated with that vibrant blend of flavors and spices.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then pour the pasta and sauce mixture inside. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. This final step creates a gooey, cheesy topping that beckons you to dig in.
How to Serve Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top adds a beautiful burst of green color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the entire dish. You can also add a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few cracked black peppercorns for a finishing touch. These small garnishes transform your bake into a dish that looks as fabulous as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or a medley of root veggies make for a wholesome accompaniment. Garlic bread is another classic choice that complements the cheesy, savory qualities perfectly, soaking up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta bake in individual ramekins. Each guest gets their own bubbly, cheesy portion that feels like a cozy personal treat. Alternatively, layering the pasta and sauce separately in a clear glass baking dish allows the colors and textures to shine through, making for an impressive presentation at your next dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pasta bake keeps beautifully in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more as it rests, making your next meal even tastier. When ready to eat, simply reheat gently to keep the cheeses from drying out.
Freezing
This Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce Recipe freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Portion it into freezer-safe containers before baking or after it has cooled completely, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating thoroughly.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes. Cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent the top from burning while preserving the bubbly cheese goodness. For a quicker option, microwave individual servings, but watch carefully to avoid drying out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, roast it until tender, then puree it to achieve a smooth texture similar to canned pumpkin. This adds a wonderfully fresh flavor but does take more prep time.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes! Simply substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses with your favorite plant-based, dairy-free alternatives. The sauce itself is naturally vegan and full of flavor without any animal products.
How spicy is the red pepper flakes addition?
The red pepper flakes provide only a mild heat that complements the sweetness of the pumpkin and tomatoes. If you prefer no spice, omit them entirely—it’s just as delicious without.
Can I add protein to this pasta bake?
Definitely! Cooked sausage, ground turkey, or even sautéed mushrooms can be stirred into the sauce before baking for added protein and texture, making it a heartier meal.
What is the best type of pasta to use for this bake?
Penne is perfect because its hollow shape captures the sauce inside, but feel free to use rigatoni, ziti, or even fusilli. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.
Final Thoughts
This Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that embraces the flavors of the season while being easy enough for any night of the week. It’s cozy, cheesy, and bursting with culinary warmth that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Trust me, once you make it, it will become a go-to recipe that brings smiles and full bellies every time. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and dive into this deliciously creamy, savory, and satisfying pasta bake—you won’t regret it!
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Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This comforting Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce blends creamy pumpkin puree with savory tomato sauce and Italian herbs, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this vegetarian casserole is hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare, offering a delicious twist on classic baked pasta.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the pasta later.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking during baking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Prepare Sauce: Stir in pumpkin puree, crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, ground nutmeg, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Pour in vegetable broth to thin the sauce slightly. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend fully.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Transfer the cooked pasta into a large bowl, then pour the prepared pumpkin tomato sauce over it. Stir thoroughly to coat all the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Assemble Bake: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray. Pour the pasta and sauce mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving warm.
Notes
- For extra protein, add cooked sausage or ground turkey mixed into the sauce before baking.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.
- Swap mozzarella with dairy-free cheese to create a vegan-friendly version.
