Name: Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 8 oz. rigatoni or short pasta; 2 cups fresh baby spinach; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided); ½ cup parmesan cheese; ½ cup heavy cream (or half and half or milk); 1 egg, beaten; 1 cup pumpkin purée; ⅓ cup vegetable broth; 1 shallot, diced very small or minced; 2–3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon sea salt; Pinch of nutmeg

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 69 reviews

There is something truly magical about gathering around a warm, bubbling casserole when the air feels crisp and the leaves are turning. This Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake Recipe is my absolute go-to when I crave comfort food that hugs you from the inside out. Creamy pumpkin puree blended with fresh ricotta and melty mozzarella brings the perfect balance of richness and subtle sweetness, while fresh spinach and a hint of oregano infuse it with freshness and depth. It’s a dish that feels like a cozy sweater for your taste buds—perfect for fall family dinners or anytime you want a simple yet unforgettable meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl holds a creamy, light orange batter with a thick texture. In the center of the batter, there is a small pile of spices and finely chopped onions, adding colors of green, white, and purple. A wooden spatula with a light beige silicone head is resting inside the bowl, partially covered by the batter. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To create this heartwarming bake, you only need a handful of simple ingredients that each play a starring role in delivering the perfect harmony of creaminess, texture, and flavor. Each element is essential, contributing to the rich, cheesy base or adding just the right bite of freshness and seasoning.

8 oz. rigatoni or short pasta: Provides a sturdy base to hold all the creamy goodness inside each bite.
2 cups fresh baby spinach: Adds a vibrant color and a mild, earthy flavor to balance the richness.
1 egg, beaten: Works as a binder to help the bake come together perfectly.
1 cup pumpkin purée: The star ingredient that lends moistness, sweetness, and a gorgeous autumnal hue.
1 cup ricotta cheese: Delivers a creamy texture and mild tang that blends beautifully with the pumpkin.
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella: Melts into gooey, stretchy cheese layers that make every forkful irresistible.
½ cup parmesan cheese: Adds a punch of salty, nutty flavor to deepen the dish.
½ cup heavy cream, half and half, or milk: Smooths out the mixture and keeps it luscious without overpowering.
⅓ cup vegetable broth: Enhances the overall savory note and prevents dryness.
1 shallot, diced small or minced: Brings delicate sweetness and aromatic complexity.
2–3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds warmth and a subtle hint of spice that wakes up the flavors.
1 tsp oregano: Lends a fragrant, earthy herbaceous note that ties everything together.
1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning: Brings classic Mediterranean herbs for well-rounded seasoning.
¼ tsp crushed red pepper: Just a touch for a gentle kick without overpowering the pumpkin’s sweetness.
½ tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle bite and depth.
½ tsp sea salt: Enhances all flavors without being salty.
Pinch of nutmeg: Offers a warm, cozy undertone that’s perfect with pumpkin and cheese.

How to Make Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepping the Pasta and Sauce

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F, setting the stage for a golden, bubbly finish. Cook the rigatoni or your chosen pasta according to the package directions—this ensures every noodle is perfectly al dente and ready to soak up that creamy sauce. While the pasta cooks, whisk together the ricotta, beaten egg, mozzarella, parmesan, vegetable broth, heavy cream, and pumpkin purée in a medium bowl. When you blend these ingredients, you’re creating the luscious base that melds creaminess with that unmistakable pumpkin flavor. Don’t forget to stir in finely diced shallot, minced garlic, and your spices— oregano, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, black pepper, sea salt, and just a pinch of nutmeg. This mixture is what will make your bake stand out.

Step 2: Combining Spinach and Pasta

Drain your cooked pasta and immediately toss it with fresh baby spinach. The residual heat will gently wilt the greens, creating a lovely earthy layer in your dish. This step ensures the spinach remains tender and vibrant, mingling with the pasta before being enveloped in the creamy pumpkin ricotta sauce.

Step 3: Baking to Perfection

Mix the spinach and pasta into the pumpkin ricotta mixture until everything is evenly coated in creamy delight. Pour this mixture into a greased casserole dish—around 9×9 inches works brilliantly—so it can bake evenly. After baking for about 15 minutes, the mixture will begin to bubble with excitement under your watchful eye. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheese melts into a golden, gooey blanket. Let your bake cool for a few minutes before digging in—it’ll make serving less messy and allow the flavors to settle into their perfect harmony.

How to Serve Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake Recipe

A white plate holds a layered pasta dish and a fresh side salad. The pasta has two layers: the bottom layer shows rigatoni pasta mixed with a creamy orange sauce, and the top layer is melted light yellow cheese with green herb specks scattered on top. Beside the pasta, bright green lettuce leaves lay as the salad base, topped with quartered red cherry tomatoes, thin slices of purple onion, and chunks of cucumber. A fork rests on the plate near the pasta, and the plate sits on a white marbled surface with a beige cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finishing your bake with a few fragrant garnishes elevates the experience. Fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra parmesan adds brightness and sharpness against the rich cheesy backdrop. For a little bit of crunch, try toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds—these contrast beautifully with the softness of the pasta bake, offering a satisfying texture twist.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own, but pairing it with fresh, crisp side salads can help balance the richness. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze add refreshing and tangy notes that contrast perfectly. For those wanting a bit more comfort, garlic bread or a warm focaccia rounds out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving this bake in individual ramekins—perfect for portion control and impressive presentation when guests come over. Adding a swirl of pesto on top after baking brightens the flavors and adds vibrant color. You could also transform this into a lasagna style by layering the pumpkin ricotta sauce and pasta sheets, then baking for a more elegant dinner party entrée.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake Recipe keeps remarkably well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors deepen and meld nicely, making for delicious next-day lunches or dinners that feel just as comforting as fresh out of the oven.

Freezing

You can freeze this pasta bake before baking to save time on busy nights. Use a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and it should last up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual, adjusting time to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and cheese is melty, usually about 15-20 minutes. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option, but the oven method keeps the texture more satisfying. If the bake looks a little dry, add a splash of cream or broth before reheating to maintain that creamy, luscious texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is fantastic because it holds the sauce well, you can swap in penne, ziti, or even shells. Just make sure to use a short pasta that captures the cheesy sauce beautifully.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, you could substitute ricotta with a plant-based alternative and use vegan cheese options. Keep in mind the texture and creaminess might vary, but the pumpkin flavor will still be wonderfully showcased.

Can I add meat to the Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake Recipe?

Yes, adding cooked Italian sausage or ground turkey can give it a meaty boost that pairs nicely with the cheese and pumpkin. I love it both ways, but this recipe stands strong as a hearty vegetarian meal.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe includes a small amount of crushed red pepper for subtle heat, but it’s very mild overall. You can always adjust the spice level to suit your palate by adding more crushed red pepper or leaving it out completely.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Definitely! This is one of those dishes that tastes even better when made ahead. You can assemble everything a day before, refrigerate, and simply bake it fresh before serving for a stress-free dinner.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend this Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake Recipe enough for anyone craving a dish that’s both easy and irresistibly comforting. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with warmth and your belly with satisfaction every single time. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, this cheesy, creamy pumpkin pasta bake is bound to become a beloved staple. Give it a try and watch it work its magic at your table!

Cheesy Pumpkin Ricotta Pasta Bake Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need