Cheesy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin-Tomato Sauce

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A creamy, cozy pasta bake with just the right amount of seasonal flair, this Cheesy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin-Tomato Sauce hits every comforting note. It brings together velvety pumpkin puree, rich tomato sauce, and loads of melty cheese for a dish that feels indulgent without being heavy. Perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or a low-effort weekend meal prep.

Pumpkin in pasta might raise eyebrows at first, but trust the process. The earthiness of the pumpkin softens the acidity of the tomato, creating a mellow, deeply flavorful base for this baked pasta. And once you layer that with bubbling cheese and golden-baked edges, you’ll see why it’s become a repeat recipe in our kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin-Tomato Sauce

This is the kind of meal that requires minimal effort but offers maximum reward. It’s vegetarian, budget-friendly, and adaptable—great with different types of pasta or cheese blends. The pumpkin-tomato combo adds subtle sweetness and a creamy texture without relying on heavy cream. If you like lasagna, you’ll love this easier, faster bake.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Short, sturdy pastas work best here. Think penne, rigatoni, or rotini—pasta with ridges or holes that can grab onto the sauce. You want something that holds up during the bake without getting mushy. If you’re gluten-free, swap in a rice or chickpea pasta. You can also sneak in whole wheat pasta for a heartier base.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin-Tomato Sauce

For a creamy, cheesy pasta bake that tastes like autumn in a dish, you’ll want a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh elements. Each ingredient plays a key role in building that smooth, tangy, cheesy flavor profile.

• Pasta
• Pumpkin puree
• Tomato sauce
• Onion
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Heavy cream

How To Make the Cheesy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin-Tomato Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil your pasta in salted water until just under al dente. It will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the tomato sauce and pumpkin puree, mixing until smooth.

Step 3: Season and Simmer

Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

Combine the cooked pasta and sauce in a large baking dish. Mix in half the mozzarella and Parmesan, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake uncovered at 375°F for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve and Store This Cheesy Pasta Bake

This recipe serves about 6 people generously, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or small gatherings. Serve it straight from the baking dish with a side salad or bread to round things out.

To store, simply cover the dish and refrigerate for up to 4 days. It also freezes well—just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions for a quick bite.

What to Serve With Cheesy Pasta Bake?

Garlic Bread

A warm, crusty slice is perfect for scooping up extra sauce.

Simple Arugula Salad

A peppery bite with lemon dressing adds brightness to balance the richness.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their charred flavor works well with creamy pasta.

Sauteed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms bring a savory depth that complements the pumpkin.

Balsamic Roasted Carrots

Sweet and tangy roasted carrots add a colorful contrast.

Parmesan Green Beans

Crisp-tender green beans with cheese are always a hit.

Creamy Tomato Soup

If you want a soup and pasta night, keep it in the tomato family.

Apple Cider or Mulled Wine

To drink, go for warm and spiced.

Want More Pasta Bake Ideas?

If you loved this cheesy pasta bake, you might want to explore these other comforting dinners:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta
• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go for extra cheese? Try adding sausage or spinach? I’d love to hear your twist on it.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and cozy dinner ideas on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next craveable meal.

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