Cheesy Pumpkin Pasta Bake (Print-Friendly Version)

Creamy pumpkin pasta with melted mozzarella, Parmesan, and a golden breadcrumb topping.

# Ingredients Required:

→ Pasta

01 - 340 grams pasta shells or rotini

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

02 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 cups (460 grams) pumpkin puree
05 - 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (optional)
06 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

→ Liquids

07 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
08 - 240 milliliters heavy cream
09 - 120 milliliters vegetable broth

→ Spices & Seasonings

10 - 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
11 - 1 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

→ Cheeses & Toppings

13 - 1 cup (100 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
14 - 1 cup (100 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
15 - 1/2 cup (50 grams) panko breadcrumbs
16 - 2 tablespoons (30 grams) butter, melted

# Detailed Directions:

01 - Set the oven temperature to 190°C (375°F) to prepare for baking.
02 - Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
03 - Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet; add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
04 - Incorporate minced garlic into the skillet and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
05 - Lower heat and stir in pumpkin puree, heavy cream, vegetable broth, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Combine thoroughly.
06 - Cook the sauce for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
07 - Remove skillet from heat and fold in half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and fully integrated.
08 - Mix cooked pasta with the pumpkin cheese sauce ensuring even coating.
09 - Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 23x33 cm baking dish.
10 - In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Sprinkle this evenly atop the pasta.
11 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the topping is golden brown and cheese bubbles.
12 - Allow to cool briefly, then garnish with fresh parsley and optional chopped sage before serving warm.

# Helpful Advice:

01 - For a smoother texture, blend the pumpkin sauce before adding cheese using an immersion blender.
02 - Adjust nutmeg quantity to taste.
03 - Optional vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms can be added to the sauce for variation.

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