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Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake

Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake: Cozy Comfort Food Delight

Enjoy the Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake, a comforting dish that's perfect for cozy family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta Choose a sturdy shape that holds the creamy sauce well.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree Cultivates that earthy sweetness.
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese Provides velvety creaminess.
  • 2 cups spinach leaves Adds nutrition and color.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped Enhances the overall sweetness.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Injects savory warmth.
  • 0.5 teaspoon nutmeg Adds warmth to the dish.
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt Enhances flavors.
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper Introduces mild heat.
  • 0.25 cup vegetable or chicken broth Adjusts sauce consistency.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing onions and garlic.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully.
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese For a golden crust.
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional) Offers a refreshing finish.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather your ingredients.
  2. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Sauté onion in olive oil for 5 minutes, then add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Combine pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  5. Pour in broth to adjust sauce consistency and stir until creamy.
  6. Fold in spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Mix in the cooked pasta, ensuring it's well coated.
  8. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading evenly.
  9. Sprinkle cheeses evenly over the pasta.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is golden brown.
  11. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
  12. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Assemble ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave.

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