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Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce

Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce
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This comforting Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with tangy tomatoes in a creamy, luscious sauce. Baked with tender pasta and topped with golden melted cheese, it is a cozy and satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings. Quick to prepare and versatile for numerous variations, this dish offers warmth, nutrition, and ease in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz dry pasta (penne, rigatoni or similar)
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
  • 1 1/2 cups grated cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
  • 2 tbsp fresh herbs (basil or parsley), chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta until just shy of al dente, as it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
  2. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant. Stir in pumpkin puree and crushed tomatoes, blending them well.
  3. Add cream and seasoning: Pour in heavy cream or your chosen alternative, stirring to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs of your choice. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 10 minutes to deepen flavors and thicken the sauce.
  4. Combine pasta and sauce: Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the mixture. Mix thoroughly so every piece is coated with pumpkin tomato sauce.
  5. Assemble and bake: Transfer the pasta and sauce blend into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle generously with grated cheese over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  6. Rest before serving: Let the bake sit for a few minutes after removing from the oven to set slightly, making it easier to serve and enjoy.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook pasta initially; it will continue cooking in the oven, so keep it slightly firm.
  • Use fresh herbs and add them at the end to preserve flavor.
  • If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually to achieve a creamy consistency.
  • Season gradually with salt since cheese and canned tomatoes can add saltiness.
  • Mozzarella melts beautifully, while a sprinkle of Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta bake, pumpkin tomato sauce, baked pasta, comfort food, vegetarian dinner, quick pasta bake, creamy pumpkin sauce

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/pasta-bake-with-pumpkin-tomato-sauce/