What ingredients do I need to make a spicy pumpkin pasta bake?

To make a spicy pumpkin pasta bake, you’ll need cooked short pasta like penne or rigatoni, pumpkin puree, shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar), a sauce base often made with garlic and tomatoes or cream, and spices like smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and oregano. Optional ingredients include meat crumbles or plant-based alternatives and toppings like breadcrumbs for a crispy crust. These ingredients combine to create a creamy, flavorful dish with a spicy kick.

Can I prepare spicy pumpkin pasta bake in advance and reheat it later?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and pumpkin sauce separately, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Assemble the dish just before baking. Leftover baked pasta can be stored for 3-4 days in the fridge and reheated in the oven to restore its crispy top or in the microwave for convenience.

How do I make spicy pumpkin pasta bake vegan?

To make the dish vegan, replace dairy cheese with plant-based vegan cheese that melts well. Use plant-based meat crumbles or omit meat entirely. Double-check that your pasta and other ingredients don’t contain eggs or dairy. This keeps the creamy texture and rich flavor, although the taste and appearance may differ slightly from the traditional version.

What are some tips for getting a crispy, golden top on my spicy pumpkin pasta bake?

For a crunchy top, sprinkle a layer of breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil or melted vegan butter on top before baking. Alternatively, add an extra layer of shredded cheese right before placing it in the oven. Baking at a moderate temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) until bubbling and golden brown helps develop that crispy crust everyone loves.

What side dishes go well with spicy pumpkin pasta bake?

This pasta bake is rich and filling enough on its own but pairs well with light, fresh sides like a crisp green salad, steamed or roasted vegetables, and crusty bread for dipping. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or garlic bread complements the spicy, creamy flavors nicely without overpowering the dish.

Spicy Pumpkin Pasta Bake Recipe For Cozy Family Dinners

Name: Spicy Pumpkin Pasta Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups minced meatball or plant-based crumbles This adds protein and heartiness to the dish, making it satisfying for a main meal.; 2 cups chopped mini sweet peppers These provide a sweet crunch and vitamins, balancing the spice with their fresh flavor.; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil Used for sautéing, it helps enhance the flavors of garlic and peppers without adding extra calories.; 4 minced garlic cloves They bring a pungent aroma and depth, forming the base of the savory sauce.; 24 oz. jar pasta sauce This creates the rich foundation, tying all the elements together for a cohesive taste.; 1 tablespoon dried oregano Adds an earthy herb note that elevates the Italian-inspired flavors.; 1 teaspoon dried basil Infuses a fresh, aromatic touch that complements the other seasonings.; 1 teaspoon garlic powder Boosts the garlic flavor throughout, ensuring every bite is well-seasoned.; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Gives a smoky, slightly sweet heat that makes the dish stand out.; 1 to 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes Adjustable for spice level, they add the fiery kick that defines this spicy pumpkin pasta bake.; 3 tablespoons or ½ cup dry white cooking wine Helps deglaze the pan and adds a subtle acidity for better sauce texture.; 16 oz. package rigatoni pasta (or mezzi rigatoni as an alternative) The base of the dish, providing a sturdy shape that holds the sauce well; opt for gluten-free if needed.; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil For tossing the pasta, it prevents sticking and adds a light gloss.; 14 oz. can pumpkin puree (not pie filling) The star ingredient, offering creaminess and a fall vibe with natural sweetness and nutrients.; 2 cups shredded mozzarella or sharp cheddar cheese Melts into a gooey layer, creating the comforting, cheesy pull that’s irresistible.; 1 teaspoon sea salt Enhances all flavors, ensuring the dish isn’t bland.; 1 teaspoon black pepper Adds a mild heat and depth to balance the sweetness.; 1 teaspoon dried parsley Brings a fresh, herbal finish to the filling.; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon Infuses warm, spicy notes that pair beautifully with pumpkin.; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg Provides a nutty undertone that rounds out the flavors.; 2 cups shredded mozzarella or sharp cheddar cheese (for topping) Creates a bubbly, golden crust on top for extra appeal.

Description

🎃 Spicy Pumpkin Pasta Bake delivers a cozy and flavorful meal combining creamy pumpkin, melted cheese, and savory spices.
🌶️ This dish is perfect for fall, offering warming heat with a rich, comforting texture that’s easy to prepare for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups minced meatball or plant-based crumbles This adds protein and heartiness to the dish, making it satisfying for a main meal.

2 cups chopped mini sweet peppers These provide a sweet crunch and vitamins, balancing the spice with their fresh flavor.

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil Used for sautéing, it helps enhance the flavors of garlic and peppers without adding extra calories.

4 minced garlic cloves They bring a pungent aroma and depth, forming the base of the savory sauce.

24 oz. jar pasta sauce This creates the rich foundation, tying all the elements together for a cohesive taste.

1 tablespoon dried oregano Adds an earthy herb note that elevates the Italian-inspired flavors.

1 teaspoon dried basil Infuses a fresh, aromatic touch that complements the other seasonings.

1 teaspoon garlic powder Boosts the garlic flavor throughout, ensuring every bite is well-seasoned.

1 teaspoon smoked paprika Gives a smoky, slightly sweet heat that makes the dish stand out.

1 to 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes Adjustable for spice level, they add the fiery kick that defines this spicy pumpkin pasta bake.

3 tablespoons or ½ cup dry white cooking wine Helps deglaze the pan and adds a subtle acidity for better sauce texture.

16 oz. package rigatoni pasta (or mezzi rigatoni as an alternative) The base of the dish, providing a sturdy shape that holds the sauce well; opt for gluten-free if needed.

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil For tossing the pasta, it prevents sticking and adds a light gloss.

14 oz. can pumpkin puree (not pie filling) The star ingredient, offering creaminess and a fall vibe with natural sweetness and nutrients.

2 cups shredded mozzarella or sharp cheddar cheese Melts into a gooey layer, creating the comforting, cheesy pull that’s irresistible.

1 teaspoon sea salt Enhances all flavors, ensuring the dish isn’t bland.

1 teaspoon black pepper Adds a mild heat and depth to balance the sweetness.

1 teaspoon dried parsley Brings a fresh, herbal finish to the filling.

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon Infuses warm, spicy notes that pair beautifully with pumpkin.

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg Provides a nutty undertone that rounds out the flavors.

2 cups shredded mozzarella or sharp cheddar cheese (for topping) Creates a bubbly, golden crust on top for extra appeal.

Instructions

1-First Step: Cook the Pasta Begin by boiling a large pot of water and adding the 16 oz. package of rigatoni pasta. Cook it al dente for 6-8 minutes, which means it’s firm but not hard. Reserve 2-3 tablespoons of the pasta water before draining, as it helps make the filling creamy later.

2-Second Step: Prepare the Meat Sauce Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, stir in the 2 cups of chopped mini sweet peppers along with the seasonings: 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 to 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes. For a vegan twist, use plant-based crumbles here.

3-Third Step: Build the Sauce Base Pour in the 24 oz. jar of pasta sauce and 3 tablespoons or ½ cup of dry white cooking wine. Add the 2 cups of minced meatball or plant-based crumbles and let everything simmer for 3-4 minutes. This step infuses the flavors and creates a rich base, adjustable for spice by tweaking the red pepper flakes.

4-Fourth Step: Mix the Pasta with Sauce Once the sauce is ready, combine it with the cooked pasta in the pot. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. If you’re making a gluten-free version, ensure your pasta is the right type to maintain the texture.

5-Fifth Step: Make the Pumpkin and Cheese Filling In a separate bowl, mix the 14 oz. can of pumpkin puree with 2 cups of shredded mozzarella or sharp cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon sea salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg. Add the reserved pasta water if needed to get a smooth consistency. This filling is where the magic happens, blending sweet and spicy elements.

6-Sixth Step: Assemble and Bake Spread the pasta and sauce mixture into a baking dish. Gently fold in the pumpkin cheese filling, then top with another 2 cups of shredded mozzarella or sharp cheddar cheese. Cover loosely with foil and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an extra 10-15 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden. For similar ideas, check out our guide to creamy beef and bowtie pasta recipes for more inspiration.

7-Final Step: Serve and Enjoy Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. It pairs well with a simple salad or crusty bread, making it a complete meal. This spicy pumpkin pasta bake serves about 6 people and takes around 50 minutes total, perfect for family dinners.

Notes

🍲 Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days; reheat in oven or microwave.
🧀 For extra crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or more cheese before baking.
⏲️ Make-ahead: cook pasta and cool; store pasta, filling, and sauce separately for up to 3-5 days before assembling and baking.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving

Keywords: spicy pumpkin pasta bake, cozy pasta bake, flavorful pumpkin dish, creamy pasta bake