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Cheesy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin-Tomato Sauce

Cheesy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin-Tomato Sauce


  • Author: Nina Klatten
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This Cheesy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin-Tomato Sauce blends cozy autumn flavors with cheesy comfort. The creamy pumpkin pairs beautifully with tangy tomatoes, wrapped in a bubbling, golden cheese topping that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or family gathering.


Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta

1 tbsp olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth

1/2 tsp dried oregano

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

Fresh parsley for garnish


Instructions

1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another 1 minute.

3. Add pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes (with juice), broth, oregano, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened slightly. Stir in cream and remove from heat.

4. Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with the pumpkin-tomato sauce and mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until fully coated.

5. Pour the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese (if using). Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Notes

Use fresh pumpkin puree if you prefer—just roast and blend until smooth.

Add a protein like shredded chicken or white beans for a more filling dish.

To reheat, add a splash of broth or cream to keep it from drying out.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 430
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: cheesy pasta bake, pumpkin tomato pasta, fall pasta recipes