Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake: A Cozy Delight

Name: Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz rigatoni or penne pasta; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided); ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: September 21, 2025

by Aria

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This cheesy pumpkin ricotta pasta bake is surprisingly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
With its delightful blend of flavors, it’s sure to impress friends and family alike
The vibrant colors and inviting aroma make it visually appealing on any table
Enjoy it as a hearty main or a comforting side dish for any occasion

I still remember the first time I made this cheesy delight for my family. The look on their faces as they took that first bite was priceless!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: I recommend using rigatoni or penne; their shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully.
Pumpkin Puree: Use canned puree for convenience or roast fresh pumpkin for added flavor.
Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it makes everything feel luxurious.
Shredded Mozzarella: Choose a good quality mozzarella for that delightful gooeyness we all crave.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives the best flavor; it adds a salty kick to balance the sweetness of pumpkin.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts down nicely and adds great color and nutrition to your dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will offer depth; sauté them until fragrant before mixing into the bake.
Italian Seasoning: A sprinkle brings everything together with aromatic herbs like basil and oregano.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it enhances flavors while keeping things healthy.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake

How to Make Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake

Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a large baking dish and coat it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking—nobody wants a sad pasta bake clinging to the sides!

Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. It should have just enough bite since it will bake further in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Garlic & Spinach

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about one minute, then toss in fresh spinach until wilted—this is when your kitchen will start smelling heavenly.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, sautéed spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until all ingredients are well incorporated—don’t be overly aggressive; we want some structure here!

Assemble & Bake

Transfer this glorious mixture into your prepared baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for that perfect golden crust. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Serve & Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. Slice into generous portions and watch as everyone dives in! You might want to keep an eye on those portions because seconds are practically guaranteed!

This cheesy pumpkin ricotta pasta bake is comfort food at its finest! Perfectly creamy and loaded with flavors that scream autumn without the hassle of complicated cooking techniques—it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

You Must Know

Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake is more than just comfort food; it’s a warm hug on a plate
The creamy texture and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for cozy dinners or potlucks
This dish brings smiles, laughter, and full bellies around the table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta until al dente, then prepare the pumpkin sauce while it cooks. Layer with ricotta and cheese for that perfect bake.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap pumpkin for butternut squash or add spinach for extra nutrition. Adjust seasonings to suit your taste preferences and creativity.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For an even creamier texture, mix some mozzarella into the ricotta layer before baking
Ensure your pasta is not overly cooked; it should still have a bite
Adding fresh herbs like sage enhances the dish’s flavor profile significantly

Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of my friends gathering around my kitchen, devouring every last bite while laughing over silly stories.

FAQ

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just roast and puree fresh pumpkin for a homemade touch.

What cheese works best in this Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake?

Mozzarella and parmesan blend beautifully together, adding creaminess and flavor.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes! Freeze before baking to enjoy later; just add extra time when cooking from frozen.