“Savor the creamy goodness of this comforting Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce!”
Falling into the embrace of a warm, cheesy pasta bake is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. This delightful recipe is a fusion of autumnal pumpkin, savory tomato, and loads of nutrients, making it the ultimate family favorite. If you are looking for a comforting yet healthy dish to spice up your dinner repertoire, this Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce is the perfect choice!
Table of Contents
Why Should You Make Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce Right Now?
“This mouthwatering dish is a perfect blend of comfort and nutrition, making it a must-try.”
There’s no better time to whip up this delicious Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce than now! Embracing the rich flavors of pumpkin in the fall brings warmth to your dining experience, while the blend of spinach and mushrooms adds a fresh touch. This dish is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for gatherings. Packed with healthy ingredients, it’s a true crowd-pleaser and an exceptional family dinner idea. Don’t forget to pair it with a refreshing salad, like my Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad!
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Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce
Savor the creamy goodness of this comforting Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce, a delightful fusion of autumnal pumpkin and savory tomato with loads of nutrients.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 oz Pasta (Penne or Rotini)
- 1 cup Pumpkin Purée
- 1 cup Tomato Sauce
- 1 cup Mushrooms, diced
- 1 cup Spinach, chopped
- 1 cup Cheese (Mozzarella or Cheddar), shredded
- 1/2 cup Walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- 1 tsp Dried Sage
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Olive Oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced mushrooms until tender and slightly golden.
- Add the pumpkin purée, tomato sauce, chopped spinach, red pepper flakes, sage, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until heated through.
- Mix in the cooked pasta and half of the cheese until evenly coated.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with chopped walnuts and the remaining cheese, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
This dish is versatile and can be customized with various ingredients. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
What Makes This Pasta Bake Unique?
“Pumpkin adds a creamy texture and a sweet depth that enhances traditional pasta bakes.”
Innovative Ingredients
Instead of the usual meat or heavy sauces, this Pasta Bake uses pumpkin purée, bringing a deliciously creamy texture without the extra calories that typically come with traditional pasta bakes. The combination of pumpkin and tomato provides a unique sweet-savory blend that’s perfect for comfort meals.
Flavor Balance
The mushrooms and spinach lend their earthy notes, balancing beautifully with the sweetness of pumpkin and acidity of tomato sauce. The addition of red pepper flakes gives it a mild kick, making it a dish you won’t soon forget.
Perfect for Seasonal Ingredients
Not only does this recipe highlight pumpkin, but it also complements seasonal favorites like spinach, enhancing its nutrition profile. Looking for more information on the health benefits of seasonal ingredients?
What Ingredients Do You Need for This Tasty Dish?
“Gather these simple ingredients to create a delightful pasta bake that everyone will love!”
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pasta (Penne or Rotini) | 8 oz |
| Pumpkin Purée | 1 cup |
| Tomato Sauce | 1 cup |
| Mushrooms, diced | 1 cup |
| Spinach, chopped | 1 cup |
| Cheese (Mozzarella or Cheddar), shredded | 1 cup |
| Walnuts, chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Red Pepper Flakes | 1/4 tsp |
| Dried Sage | 1 tsp |
| Salt and Pepper | to taste |
| Olive Oil | For sautéing |
Now let’s highlight important ingredients! First off, pumpkin purée isn’t just a seasonal star; it’s brimming with vitamins A and C, which are essential for immunity. Then, we’ve got spinach, a leafy green powerhouse filled with iron and antioxidants. To elevate the nutritional value even more, opt for whole grain pasta, it’s higher in fiber compared to regular pasta. Check out my Brsoccoli Cheddar Soup to see how vegetables can be the star.
How Do You Make This Delicious Pasta Bake Step-by-Step?
“Making this Pasta Bake is as easy as 1-2-3, which makes it great for everyone!”
Step 1: Cook Your Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture, ensuring it will hold up during baking. Drain and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced mushrooms until they become tender and slightly golden, releasing their wonderful earthy aroma.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
Add the pumpkin purée, tomato sauce, chopped spinach, red pepper flakes, sage, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well until everything is heated through. Next, mix in the cooked pasta and half of the cheese until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, topping it with chopped walnuts and the remaining cheese, and let it bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s wonderfully golden and bubbly.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 45 minutes |
Enjoy your masterpiece! As it bakes, your kitchen fills with a heavenly aroma, drawing everyone to the dinner table.
What Are Some Variations and Serving Ideas for This Pasta Bake?
“Feeling adventurous? Let’s explore some fun ways to customize this pasta bake!”
Diet Swap
Looking for vegan options? Swap out the cheese for nutritional yeast to get a cheesy flavor without dairy, and use whole grain or chickpea pasta for an even more nutritious spin!
Flavor Variation
Thinking bold? Add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth or toss in some diced bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor. You can also incorporate Italian herbs like oregano for a Mediterranean twist. Don’t forget to try my Creamy Leek and Mince Potato Muffins for some flavor inspiration!
Serving Idea
Serve this dish with a simple side salad like arugula dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors of the pasta. A sprinkling of fresh herbs on top will not only make it look pretty but also add a burst of flavor!
| Suggested Pairings | Tips |
|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | Perfect for sopping up the sauce. |
| Side Salad | Enhance your meal with a refreshing crunch. |
| White Wine | Makes for a classic pairing. |
What Are My Final Thoughts on This Pasta Bake?
This Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce is everything you crave for a comforting meal, creamy, warming, and full of flavor! I promise that it will become a family favorite in no time. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and make it your own! And if you have leftovers, they store beautifully. Just let them cool, cover, and refrigerate, reheating when you’re ready to enjoy again. Don’t forget to share your kitchen creations on Pinterest by saving this recipe here!
FAQ
Can I use different pasta shapes for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can use any pasta shape you like—whether it’s penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type you choose.
Is pumpkin puree necessary for this recipe?
While pumpkin puree adds creaminess and a unique flavor, you can substitute it with butternut squash puree or a thick tomato sauce if you prefer. However, pumpkin does bring a lovely sweetness that compliments the dish!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pasta bake a day in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adjusting the time as needed to ensure it’s heated through.
How can I make this recipe more spicy?
If you want to add some heat to your Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce, try adding more red pepper flakes or incorporating diced jalapeños into the sauce. You can also use spicy cheese for an added kick!
Can I freeze this pasta bake?
Definitely! To freeze, let it cool completely after baking, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
1 Comment
[…] Once everything is combined, serve your creamy gnocchi warm, perhaps garnishing with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Enjoy a warm bowl of comfort as a weeknight dinner or special occasion treat! If you’re curious about veggie meals, you might also appreciate Pasta Bake with Pumpkin & Tomato Sauce. […]