Creamy Herbed Pumpkin and Spinach Pasta Bake

This Creamy Herbed Pumpkin and Spinach Pasta Bake is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy pumpkin, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrition. Baking the pasta allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a comforting meal your family will love.

The key to this recipe is using high-quality herbs and spices, which elevate the dish and balance the creaminess of the pumpkin. Additionally, this pasta bake is a great way to incorporate seasonal ingredients, making it a wonderful choice for fall and winter gatherings.

Creamy Herbed Pumpkin and Spinach Pasta Bake

Serves: 6 Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes 30 minutes

Nutrition facts: 400 calories 15g fat

Rating: 5.0/5

( 1 voted )

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Ingredients

INGREDIENTS

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pure pumpkin, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, garlic, thyme, oregano, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
4. Fold in the cooked pasta and fresh spinach until evenly coated with the pumpkin mixture.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top, and then add the breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Tip: For a bit of crunch, mix some toasted pine nuts into the pasta before baking.

For the best texture, cook your pasta until it’s just al dente before baking, as it will continue to cook in the oven. You can substitute the spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile. If you’re looking for extra protein, feel free to add cooked chicken or chickpeas.

Storage is easy! Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.