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Pumpkin Pasta Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 71 reviews

A comforting and creamy Pumpkin Pasta Bake combining tender penne with a rich pumpkin and ricotta sauce, fresh spinach, and a cheesy top layer baked to golden perfection. This autumn-inspired casserole is perfect for cozy dinners and brings a unique twist to traditional pasta dishes.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz penne pasta

Cheese and Dairy

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided into 1/2 cup for mixing and 1/2 cup for topping)
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Produce and Vegetables

  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Seasonings

  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for baking the pasta dish.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Boil the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.
  3. Prepare the Sauce Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
  4. Combine Pasta and Spinach: Stir the cooked pasta and fresh spinach into the pumpkin cheese mixture until everything is evenly coated and mixed together.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute half of the ricotta with cream cheese.
  • Use fresh nutmeg if available for more pronounced spice notes.
  • You can add cooked sausage or mushrooms for a non-vegetarian variation.
  • Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to complete the meal.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven to maintain the baked texture.

Keywords: pumpkin pasta bake, baked pasta, pumpkin recipe, ricotta pasta, autumn recipes, vegetarian pasta bake

Find it online: https://victoriablair.com/pumpkin-pasta-bake-recipe/