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As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s an undeniable charm in embracing the flavors of fall. Among the season's bounty, pumpkin stands out—not just as a festive decoration but as a culinary star. The Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Bake combines the comforting essence of baked pasta with the rich, earthy notes of pumpkin, making it an ideal dish for cozy dinners and family gatherings. This recipe is not only a treat for pumpkin lovers but also a delightful option for home cooks looking to introduce a seasonal twist to their meals.

Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Bake

Embrace the flavors of fall with a comforting Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Bake that takes advantage of the season's bounty. This recipe combines the rich taste of pumpkin with creamy pasta, creating a warm dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also allows for customization with your favorite veggies and spices. Discover the delightful combination of textures and flavors that will make this dish a seasonal favorite in your home.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or fusilli works well)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (15 oz) pureed pumpkin

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup vegetable broth

1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

        Make the Sauce: Stir in the pureed pumpkin, heavy cream, vegetable broth, nutmeg, thyme, salt, and black pepper into the skillet. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the creamy pumpkin sauce. Add ¾ cup of the Parmesan cheese to the mixture and stir until well combined.

            Prepare the Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish (about 9x13 inches). Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, followed by the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, and then evenly distribute the breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy finish.

              Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings