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Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake Recipe

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3.9 from 85 reviews

A comforting and hearty pasta bake that combines roasted pumpkin puree, creamy ricotta cheese, and fresh spinach, topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan. Perfect for cozy autumn evenings or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Primary Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Cheese and Flavorings

  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the pasta dish.
  2. Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside for layering.
  3. Mix Pumpkin Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, egg, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  4. Add Spinach and Cheese: Fold the fresh spinach and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese into the pumpkin-ricotta mixture to distribute evenly.
  5. Layer Pasta and Filling: Grease a baking dish lightly. Spread half of the cooked pasta at the bottom, then evenly spread the pumpkin mixture over it. Top with the remaining pasta to create layers.
  6. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top layer of pasta for a cheesy crust.
  7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Cool and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving to allow the bake to set.

Notes

  • Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or make-ahead meals stored in the refrigerator.
  • Add fresh herbs like sage or thyme to enhance autumn flavors.
  • Serve with a light green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten free if desired.

Find it online: https://deliciousyum.com/pumpkin-ricotta-pasta-bake-recipe/