Name: Creamy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Dry Pasta (tubular pasta like mezzi rigatoni, ziti, or farfalle); 3 cups Vegetable Broth (chicken broth works if not vegetarian); 1 15-oz can Pumpkin Puree (the star ingredient); 2 Tbsp Butter (or olive oil as a plant-based alternative); 2 Tbsp Olive Oil (for sautéing); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated); 1 1/2 cups Fontina Cheese (grated, divided); 3-4 handfuls Fresh Spinach (or kale/swiss chard); 8 oz Cremini Mushrooms (sliced); 1 Onion (finely chopped); 4 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 tsp Dried Oregano; 2 Tbsp Sage (finely chopped); 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (adjust to spice preference); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (kosher salt balances flavors); 1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg (complements pumpkin flavor); 1/2 cup Walnuts (finely chopped)

The aroma wafting through my kitchen feels like a warm hug, just in time for a cozy evening. Today, I’m thrilled to share my delightful recipe for a Creamy Cheesy Pumpkin Pasta Bake with Spinach and Mushrooms. This vibrant dish is a fantastic way to sneak in those nutritious veggies while satisfying your comfort food cravings. With a rich, creamy sauce and a crunchy walnut topping, it’s sure to make both vegetarians and meat-lovers swoon at the dinner table. Plus, it’s designed for quick prep, which means you can concentrate on what really matters—enjoying good food and good company! Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with this pumpkin-infused delight? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Pasta Bake So Irresistible?

Comforting, Creamy Goodness: The unique combination of pumpkin and cheese creates a rich, creamy sauce that wraps around each piece of pasta, making every bite a delight.

Nutritious Sneakiness: Packed with spinach and mushrooms, this dish incorporates wholesome veggies in a delicious way, perfect for your family or friends who may be averse to greens.

Effortless Preparation: Enjoy a quick prep time, allowing you to whip up this meal easily, leaving you more time to unwind and relish the comforting flavors.

Versatile Serving Options: Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. If you’re looking for more comforting recipes, try out my Tomato Beef Pasta or Beef Enchilada Pasta for a delicious dining experience!

A Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this pasta bake appeals to everyone, even the most devoted meat-lovers!

Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce Ingredients

For the Pasta Base
• Dry Pasta – 1 lb. of your favorite tubular pasta provides heartiness; great substitutes include mezzi rigatoni, ziti, or farfalle.
• Vegetable Broth – 3 cups for moisture; chicken broth works if you’re not vegetarian.

For the Creamy Sauce
• Pumpkin Puree – 1 (15-oz.) can is the star ingredient, delivering creaminess and nutrition.
• Butter – 2 Tbsp. adds richness; olive oil is a plant-based alternative.
• Olive Oil – 2 Tbsp. for sautéing; avocado oil is a versatile substitute.
• Parmesan Cheese – 1/2 cup, grated introduces umami; nutritional yeast is great for a vegan twist.
• Fontina Cheese – 1 1/2 cups, grated, divided, gives that melty texture we’re all craving.

For the Flavor Boosters
• Fresh Spinach – 3 to 4 handfuls adds nutrition and a vibrant pop; feel free to use kale or Swiss chard instead.
• Cremini Mushrooms – 8 oz., sliced, brings umami and texture; button or shiitake mushrooms can be used as alternatives.
• Onion – 1, finely chopped, serves as a sweet aromatic base.
• Garlic – 4 cloves, minced, for an aromatic kick.
• Dried Oregano – 1 tsp. enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
• Sage – 2 Tbsp., finely chopped, imparts a delightful aromatic flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes – 1/2 tsp. offers a gentle heat; adjust to your spice preference.
• Black Pepper – 1/2 tsp. adds warmth, while kosher salt balances all the flavors.
• Ground Nutmeg – 1/4 tsp. complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.

For the Crunchy Topping
• Walnuts – 1/2 cup, finely chopped, not only offer crunch but also nutty flavor; pecans or almonds are perfect substitutes.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that when your cheesy pumpkin pasta bake is ready, it cooks evenly and achieves that golden, bubbly finish we all love. While the oven heats, gather your baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the dry pasta according to package instructions until it’s just 2 minutes shy of al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, letting it cool slightly. The pasta will finish cooking in the oven, soaking up all the flavors from the pumpkin tomato sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Topping
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the finely chopped walnuts and sage, toasting them until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn; you want them golden and aromatic. Once ready, transfer the mixture to a bowl and set aside for later use.

Step 4: Cook the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the sliced cremini mushrooms and finely chopped onion, sautéing for 7-8 minutes until they soften and become translucent. Stir occasionally, allowing the mushrooms to release their moisture and develop a lovely golden color, enhancing the flavor of the cheesy pumpkin pasta bake.

Step 5: Add Tomato Paste
Once the mushrooms and onions are cooked, incorporate the tomato paste, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes into the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently for 2-3 minutes until the paste caramelizes slightly and deepens in flavor. Your kitchen will soon be filled with a mouthwatering aroma as the ingredients meld together.

Step 6: Add Spinach and Seasoning
Stir in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt down for about 2-3 minutes. Then add in the dried oregano, kosher salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. This mixture of seasonings will elevate your pumpkin tomato sauce, enhancing the overall flavor of your creamy pasta bake, making it a comforting delight.

Step 7: Add Broth and Pumpkin
Next, pour in the vegetable broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Once combined, stir in the pumpkin puree and half of the grated Fontina cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step brings together the rich flavors necessary for a scrumptious pumpkin tomato sauce.

Step 8: Combine with Pasta
Gently fold the cooked pasta into the creamy pumpkin tomato sauce until evenly coated. Make sure every piece of pasta is enveloped in the delicious sauce, ensuring that your creamy pasta bake turns out flavorful. This is the moment to taste and adjust seasoning, if needed—a delightful preview of what’s to come!

Step 9: Transfer to Dish
Pour the pasta and sauce mixture into your greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining Fontina cheese on top, followed by the toasted walnut-sage mixture. The topping not only adds flavor but also a beautiful texture contrast to your cheesy pumpkin pasta bake.

Step 10: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes, then uncover and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. Keep an eye on it to achieve that perfect visual cue of doneness, making your pasta bake irresistible!

What to Serve with Cheesy Pumpkin Pasta Bake

Looking to create a complete and cozy meal that compliments this creamy delight?

Fresh Green Salad: Crisp mixed greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette add brightness, balancing the rich, cheesy pasta bake.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, this beloved side offers a satisfying texture contrast, perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies will enhance the earthiness of the pasta while providing a colorful and nutritious component to your meal.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned with balsamic glaze, these offer a savory crunch that complements the creamy pumpkin flavors wonderfully.
Apple Cider: A refreshing glass of chilled cider enhances the warm spices in the pasta, creating an inviting fall-inspired feast.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish off your meal with soft, gooey cookies that provide a sweet, nostalgic contrast to the savory dish.

Mix and match these pairings for a delightful dining experience that everyone will cherish!

Expert Tips for Perfect Pasta Bake

Cook the Pasta Right: Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente before mixing with the sauce to ensure a great texture in your pasta bake.

Toast the Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts is key for maximum flavor; watch them closely to avoid burning and to achieve that perfect nutty aroma.

Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Properly seasoning each layer enhances the overall flavor profile of your pasta bake with pumpkin tomato sauce.

Layer the Cheese: For a gooey and delightful topping, retain some of the cheese for the last layer—this guarantees an indulgent, melty finish!

Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust your seasoning as you cook; this simple step can elevate your dish to restaurant-quality deliciousness.

Storage Tips: Let leftovers cool before storing in an airtight container—this helps maintain freshness and flavor for your next meal!

Variations for Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce

Feel free to customize this delightful dish with these fun variations that add even more flavor and nutrition!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to enjoy a similar texture while accommodating dietary needs. This swap ensures everyone can dig in without worry.
Cheese Medley: Combine different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a unique twist. Mixing cheeses creates layers of flavor that make each bite exciting!
Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate butternut squash or zucchini for added texture. These vegetables beautifully complement the pumpkin and enhance the dish’s cozy feel.
Vegan Delight: Replace dairy ingredients with coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a creamy, dairy-free experience. Not only is this a delicious alternative, but it also offers a whole new flavor profile!
Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist. Perfect for those who crave a little heat in their comfort food.
Nutty Topping: Experiment with different nuts such as pecans or almonds for your topping. Each nut brings its unique flavor, adding both crunch and nutrition.
Herb Infusion: Boost the flavor with fresh herbs like thyme or basil. They bring a burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and helps brighten the dish.

For more comforting recipes, check out my Creamy Tomato Beef Pasta or indulge in the flavors of Marry Chicken Pasta. Enjoy experimenting!

How to Store and Freeze Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The creamy sauce will keep the pasta moist and delicious upon reheating.

Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a comforting meal anytime.

Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes or in the microwave until thoroughly heated. Enjoy the flavors of your pasta bake even after a few days!

Make Ahead Options

This Cheesy Pumpkin Pasta Bake with Mushrooms and Spinach is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance by following the recipe instructions, but stopping just before the baking step. To maintain its creaminess and flavor, refrigerate it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting pasta bake, simply preheat the oven to 375°F and bake it straight from the fridge for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. This way, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready with minimal effort!

Creamy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
I recommend using tubular pasta such as mezzi rigatoni, ziti, or farfalle, as they perfectly hold the creamy pumpkin tomato sauce. Avoid overcooking the pasta before mixing it with the sauce to maintain the desired texture!

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This dish reheats beautifully, so your creamy pasta bake with pumpkin tomato sauce will still be delicious during the week!

Can I freeze the pasta bake?
Absolutely! Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and then bake in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.

What if I have allergies, can this dish be modified?
You can easily make this recipe allergy-friendly! For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free, substitute the cheese with nutritional yeast and use olive oil instead of butter. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they align with your dietary needs.

What are some troubleshooting tips for my pasta bake?
If your pasta bake comes out dry, it may need more sauce—next time, try adding a bit more vegetable broth or pumpkin puree to achieve that creamy consistency. If the top browns too quickly, cover it with foil during the initial baking stage and uncover it for the last few minutes to achieve the perfect golden finish.

How do I know when the pasta bake is done?
Look for a bubbly and golden top! When you uncover your pasta bake for the last 10-15 minutes of baking, that beautiful, melted cheese is your visual cue that it’s ready to come out of the oven and into your eager hands.