Introduction
Get ready for a cozy hug in a bowl! Our Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with amazing flavors that will warm you from the inside out. The sweet pumpkin perfectly balances the tangy tomatoes, creating a sauce you’ll want to spoon over everything!
The best part? This dish looks impressive but is incredibly simple to make. You can whip it up on a weeknight without any stress. With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy families or anyone craving something hearty and satisfying.
So, why wait? Grab your apron and let’s dive into this wonderful recipe. You’re going to love how easy and delicious this pasta bake is. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a new favorite in your kitchen!
Cooking Time & Prep Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Small tip: You can chop your vegetables while the pasta boils to save time!
Ingredients
This recipe makes 6 generous servings.
- For the Pasta:
- 300g (about 10.5 oz) short pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt for pasta water
- For the Pumpkin Tomato Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 400g (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 400g (15 oz) can pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
- 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional, for cheesy flavor without dairy)
- For the Topping:
- ½ cup (50g) shredded mozzarella cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
- ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
