This Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce is a cozy dish that’s filled with noodles, pumpkin, and a splash of tomato goodness. It’s creamy, warm, and perfect for family dinners!
You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up! I love the mix of flavors, and it always makes everyone smile. Plus, leftovers are great for lunch, if there are any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rigatoni is great for this bake since its shape holds onto the sauce. You could also use penne or fusilli if you have those on hand. Just opt for a sturdier pasta to withstand the bake!
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is super easy and convenient. If you have fresh pumpkin, you can roast and blend it yourself. Just be sure it’s smooth and not too watery!
Diced Tomatoes: If you’re in a pinch, crushed tomatoes work as an alternative. Alternatively, fresh tomatoes can also be used; just chop them into small pieces.
Spinach or Kale: Both greens add nutrition and color! You can swap in other leafy greens like Swiss chard or even frozen spinach (just make sure to thaw and drain it first).
Cheeses: Mozzarella is a staple for that gooey texture, but you could use cheddar or a cheese blend too. For a vegan option, try dairy-free cheese shreds.
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce is Just Right?
Getting the sauce to the perfect consistency and flavor is key for this bake. Here’s how to master it:
- Cook your onions low and slow until they’re translucent for a sweeter taste.
- When adding pumpkin and diced tomatoes, stir gently to blend the flavors. Let it simmer, so everything melds nicely.
- Don’t rush adding in spinach or kale; let them wilt which unveils their flavor and makes them tender.
- Adjust seasoning! Taste the sauce and tweak with extra salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference. Always taste as you go!
By following these tips, you’ll be sure to get a flavorful sauce that elevates the whole dish!
Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Bake:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (rigatoni or similar tubular pasta)
- 2 cups pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes halved)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Pasta Bake will take about 15 minutes for preparation and 25 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll need around 40 minutes to bring this comforting dish to the table. A quick and satisfying dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a baking dish so your pasta doesn’t stick. This will make serving a breeze!
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Saute the Aromatics:
In the meantime, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Create Your Sauce:
Now, stir in the diced tomatoes and pumpkin puree. Add the dried oregano, basil, and optional red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Let this mixture simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally so everything blends beautifully.
5. Add the Greens:
Next, add the chopped spinach or kale to the sauce. Stir everything together and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the greens wilt. Your sauce should be colorful and inviting!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Now, mix the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring that every piece of pasta is luxuriously coated. It should look rich and delicious!
7. Layer in the Baking Dish:
Transfer half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Then, layer the rest of the pasta mixture followed by the remaining cheese, making sure everything is covered. Cheese lovers rejoice!
8. Bake and Enjoy:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown cheesy top. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly to set before serving.
9. Final Touches:
If you like, garnish your delicious pasta bake with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs. This adds a lovely touch and aroma.
10. Serve and Savor:
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve warm and enjoy your comforting Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce. It’s a delightful blend of creamy pumpkin, tender pasta, and crisp greens, all topped with melty cheese!
This recipe yields about 4-6 servings, making it perfect for entertaining or enjoying as leftovers!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni works great, you can use any tubular pasta like penne or fusilli. Just ensure the pasta is sturdy enough to hold the sauce well during baking!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but if you want to make it vegan, simply substitute dairy cheese with your favorite vegan cheese. You can also skip the grated Parmesan or use a nutritional yeast blend for added flavor.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Allow the pasta bake to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This Pasta Bake pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!
