Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Bake: best vegetarian recipe

Jump to Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food this season with my Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Bake—a dish that’s as delicious as it is cozy. This Pumpkin Pasta Recipe is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the rich, earthy flavors of fall. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner to warm up those chilly nights or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, this Pumpkin and Pasta Bake has you covered.

This Pumpkin Pasta Bake takes the best of autumn’s harvest and transforms it into a luscious, Creamy Vegetarian Pasta Bake that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. The recipe starts with a flavorful pumpkin sauce, made even richer with the addition of full-fat coconut milk, and then it’s combined with perfectly cooked rigatoni. If you love casseroles you are going to love this casserole dish with zucchini slices and creamy pumpkin sauce. 

Cheesy pumpkin pasta bake

Imagine a Vegetarian Zucchini Casserole meets Vegetarian Rigatoni Tray Bake—only with an irresistible pumpkin twist. It’s a great main dish, but also makes a perfect side dish. 

As you layer this Pumpkin Bake with tender slices of zucchini, leeks, and a blend of aromatic spices, the magic really begins. The final touch in this vegan squash casserole? A generous sprinkle of vegan or vegetarian mozzarella cheese, which melts beautifully in the oven, creating a Cheesy Baked Pumpkin Pasta that’s golden and bubbly on top. Top the zucchini gratin with panko bread crumbs and get ready for the ultimate zucchini lovers cabled casserole full of lots of flavor.

Pumpkin pasta! The king of pumpkin recipes 

What makes this Baked Pumpkin Pasta truly special is its versatility. It’s a Fall Baked Pasta that can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or even a handful of crunchy breadcrumbs for added texture. Featuring amazing pumpkin flavor, delicious sauce, and amazing fall flavors, this pumpkin pasta dish is a delicious recipe the whole family will love. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this Vegetable Pasta Bake is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

So, gather around the table with your loved ones and enjoy the cozy, satisfying flavors of this Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Bake. It’s the perfect dish to celebrate the season and savor the comforting taste of fall. Whether you’re already a zucchini fan, or you’re trying a easy zucchini casserole with creamy pumpkin sauce for the first time, this great recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

In this creamy pumpkin pasta bake recipe we’re covering 

Why you’re going to love this Vegetarian zucchini casserole recipe 

You’re going to love this Pumpkin Pasta Bake because it’s the perfect blend of comfort and flavor. The creamy pumpkin sauce, infused with savory herbs and a hint of sweet coconut milk, creates a rich and satisfying dish that’s both cozy and indulgent. The combination of tender pasta, flavorful veggies like zucchini and leeks, and the crispy breadcrumb topping makes every bite a delightful experience. 

Plus, this creamy pumpkin pasta recipe is incredibly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient and delicious option for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Whether you’re a pumpkin lover or just looking for a hearty, plant-based meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

What’s great about this amazing pumpkin pasta bake recipe:

• Everything, yes, I said it, everything
• Delicious and creamy
• Easy to make: you don’t need any special cooking skills to make this casserole dish.
• Meal prep friendly: make for dinner tonight and freeze the rest for a delicious easy meal next week.
• Vegan or vegetarian: use vegan cheese or plenty of cheese of your choice to make this cheesy pumpkin pasta bake!
• Gluten-free option: substitute the breadcrumbs with finely ground almonds or omit entirely to make the comforting meals completely gluten-free.
• A crowdpleaser recipe: there’s pasta dishes and then there’s this cheesy pumpkin pasta bake! It’s the king or queen of savory pumpkin recipes!
• Ideal fall comfort food pasta: get ready for creamy cozy fall season flavors!
• Great for weeknights and weekends

This incredible pumpkin pasta bake has everything you could want in a pasta dish. Imagine cheesy flavors, creamy pumpkin sauce enveloping baked pasta, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. It’s the stuff pasta lovers dream of and incredibly easy to make. 

With just a few simple ingredients, this pumpkin pasta recipe is packed with flavor. Combining pumpkin sauce, zucchini, garlic, and leeks, it’s a pasta bake like you’ve never experienced before. If you’re craving a cozy comfort food, this is the recipe for you. 

The pumpkin pasta sauce is rich and creamy, enhanced with sun-dried tomatoes and the sweet flavor of pumpkin. Think of deliciously creamy, garlicky, and cheesy flavors all coming together in one easy dish. It doesn’t get much better than this.

Pumpkin bake ingredients 

You need a few main ingredients to make the pumpkin pasta recipe. 

Vegan pumpkin pasta sauce recipe Ingredients:

• 1 cup (160 g) Sun-Dried Tomatoes (packed in oil): These add a rich, tangy flavor and a bit of chewiness to the sauce. The oil they are packed in is also used to sauté the onions, adding extra flavor.
• 1 Onion (about 150 g), chopped: Onions provide a sweet and savory base for the sauce, adding depth to the overall flavor.
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced: Garlic gives the sauce a fragrant and slightly spicy kick, enhancing the overall taste. Alternatively, you can substitute with garlic powder. The flavor won’t be quite as pungent but it will still make a delicious baked casserole.
• 1 1/2 cups (360 g) Pumpkin Puree: This is the key  ingredient, providing a creamy texture and a mild sweetness that pairs well with the herbs and spices.
• 1 cup (240 g) Tomato Puree: Adds a rich tomato flavor, balancing the sweetness of the pumpkin with a bit of acidity.
• 4 cups (960 ml) Vegetable Broth: Used to thin out the sauce and add more savory depth to the dish. It helps to bring all the flavors together.

Seasoning ingredients

• 1 tsp (1 g) Dried Basil: A classic herb that adds a sweet, slightly peppery flavor to the sauce.
• 1 tsp (1 g) Dried Oregano: This herb provides a robust, earthy flavor that complements the pumpkin and tomato base.
• 1 tsp (1 g) Dried Thyme: Thyme has a subtle, minty taste that adds a layer of complexity to the sauce.
• 1/3 tsp (1 g) Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• 1/3 tsp (1 g) Ground Black Pepper: Adds a bit of warmth and spice to balance the sweetness of the pumpkin.
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) Full-Fat Coconut Milk (or other full-fat plant milk): This adds creaminess and a slight coconut flavor, making the sauce rich and smooth. Alternatively, you can use unsweetened almond milk or even half heavy cream and half vegetable stock together with the pumpkin purée. 

Cheesy baked pumpkin pasta ingredients: easy Pasta Bake Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225 g) Pasta (penne, shells, screws, or your preferred type): The pasta is the base of the dish, providing a hearty and filling texture that pairs well with the creamy sauce. Use any type of pasta you prefer. Make it a pumpkin ravioli sauce, opt for your favorite fresh pasta, or use chickpea pasta for a gluten-free option. Any pasta should work in a perfect way with the pumpkin noodles.
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) Olive Oil: Used to sauté the vegetables, adding richness and helping to carry the flavors of the herbs and spices.
• 1 Zucchini (about 150 g), sliced: Adds a tender texture and mild flavor, complementing the other ingredients in the bake. You can use any type of fresh zucchini you prefer. Green zucchini or yellow squash will both work equally well in this zucchini tomato casserole with creamy pumpkin sauce.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Adds more garlic flavor to the dish, ensuring the pasta bake is packed with savory goodness.
• 1 Leek (about 90 g), sliced: Leeks provide a mild onion-like flavor, adding depth without overpowering the dish.

Seasoning ingredients:

• 1 tsp (1 g) Dried Thyme: Consistency in herbs ensures the sauce and the sautéed vegetables have a unified flavor profile.
• 1 tsp (2 g) Pumpkin Spice Mix: Adds a unique twist by incorporating warm spices that complement the pumpkin and create a cozy, fall-inspired dish.
• 1 cup (100 g) Grated Mozzarella Cheese (vegan or vegetarian): This adds a gooey, melty texture to the pasta bake, making it even more indulgent.
• 1/4 tsp (1 g) Salt: Seasoning to taste, ensuring the vegetables are flavorful. Use any type of salt you prefer, like kosher salt or sea salt. 
• 1/4 tsp (1 g) Ground Black Pepper: Adds a little spice and warmth to the vegetables.
• 1 handful (25 g) Breadcrumbs: Sprinkled on top to create a crispy, golden-brown crust when baked. I like to use panko breadcrumbs, but you can also use homemade breadcrumbs or gluten free breadcrumbs.

These ingredients come together to create a dish that is not only comforting and delicious but also balanced in flavor and texture. The pumpkin sauce is creamy and rich, while the vegetables and breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch and freshness to every bite.

Vegetable pasta bake tips and tricks 

Ideas and Tips for Making the Perfect Pumpkin Pasta Bake

1. Homemade Squash Purée with Sage: For a personal touch, try using your own homemade puréed winter squash, such as butternut or acorn squash. Adding a bit of fresh sage will bring out a hint of sweetness that beautifully complements the savory elements of the dish.

2. Thick and Creamy Sauce Variation: If you prefer a thicker sauce, enhance the creaminess by adding more vegetable stock and a light sprinkle of nutmeg. Swap out the oregano for sage, and stir in about a cup of plant-based yogurt or fat-free plain Greek yogurt. This will give your sauce a rich, velvety texture.

3. Seasoning Twist: Elevate the flavor profile of your pumpkin pasta bake by incorporating a dash of nutmeg and some freshly grated lemon zest. The nutmeg adds warmth, while the lemon zest introduces a bright, refreshing contrast to the dish.

4. Reheating Tips: To keep your pumpkin pasta bake moist and creamy when reheating, add a small splash of plant-based milk or skim milk before microwaving. This helps to revive the sauce’s richness and prevents the pasta from drying out.

The Pasta Sauce

This creamy pumpkin pasta sauce is simply amazing. Made with just a few ingredients, it’s bursting with flavor. The sun-dried tomatoes provide depth and richness, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the pumpkin and creating a flavor experience that’s out of this world.

Pro Tip: You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. It also freezes well, so you can keep it on hand for those busy days when you need a quick meal.

Vegan or Vegetarian

This pumpkin pasta bake can be customized to fit your dietary preferences. The sauce itself is vegan, but the final dish’s classification depends on the cheese you use. For a vegan version, opt for vegan grated mozzarella cheese, which melts just like the real thing. For a vegetarian bake, simply use vegetarian grated mozzarella cheese. Both options are delicious and nearly indistinguishable.

Gluten-Free Option

For a gluten-free version of this pasta bake, substitute regular pasta with lentil pasta or your favorite gluten-free pasta. Replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour, and you’re all set to enjoy this delicious pumpkin pasta bake. Bon appétit!

Creamy pumpkin pasta bake recipe 

Easy pumpkin bake: best creamy pumpkin pasta bake recipe

This Easy Pumpkin Bake is the ultimate creamy, comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in. Combining rich pumpkin sauce, tender pasta, and a medley of sautéed vegetables, this recipe is bursting with flavor and texture. It’s an effortless meal that’s sure to impress, whether you’re feeding the family or entertaining guests. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the taste of fall in every bite!

Baked Pumpkin Pasta Ingredients

Pumpkin Sauce

• 1 cup (150 g) sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil
• 1 onion (about 150 g), chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups (360 g) pumpkin puree
• 1 cup (240 g) tomato puree
• 4 cups (960 ml) vegetable broth
• 1 tsp (1 g) dried basil
• 1 tsp (1 g) dried oregano
• 1 tsp (1 g) dried thyme
• 1/3 tsp (2 g) salt
• 1/3 tsp (1 g) ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) full-fat coconut milk (or other full-fat plant milk)

Pasta Bake

• 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, shells, screws, or your preferred type)
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
• 1 zucchini (about 150 g), sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 leek (about 90 g), sliced
• 1 tsp (1 g) dried thyme
• 1 tsp (2 g) pumpkin spice mix
• 1 cup (100 g) grated mozzarella cheese (vegan or vegetarian)
• 1/4 tsp (1.5 g) salt
• 1/4 tsp (1 g) ground black pepper
• 1 handful (30 g) breadcrumbs

How to make Pumpkin and pasta bake recipe 

How to make Pumpkin pasta sauce 

For the Pumpkin Sauce:

    1.    Cook the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the sun-dried tomatoes along with a bit of their oil and the chopped onion. Stir occasionally and cook for a few minutes until the onion starts to soften.

    2.    Add Garlic and Herbs: Add the minced garlic, dried basil, dried thyme, and dried oregano to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

    3.    Incorporate the Purees: Stir in the pumpkin puree and tomato puree, mixing well to combine.

    4.    Simmer the Sauce: Add the salt, pepper, vegetable broth, and coconut milk to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit of water to reach your desired consistency.

    5.    Blend the Sauce: Remove the sauce from the heat. Using a handheld immersion blender, puree the sauce directly in the pot until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the sauce to a regular blender and puree until smooth, then return it to the pot.

For the Pasta Bake:

    1.    Cook the Pasta: Follow the instructions on the pasta package to cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    2.    Sauté the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini and leeks, cooking for 3-5 minutes while stirring occasionally until they begin to soften. Season with thyme, pumpkin spice mix, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for a few more minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

    3.    Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    4.    Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the pumpkin sauce and grated mozzarella cheese. Gently toss until the pasta is evenly coated. Add the sautéed zucchini and leeks and mix well.

    5.    Assemble and Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture to an oven-safe baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.

    6.    Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.

    7.    Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious pumpkin pasta bake!

Fall baked pasta variations 

Here are some delicious vegetarian fall baked pasta variations and add-ins that you can incorporate into your dish:

1. Roasted Butternut Squash:

– Add-In: Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender. Fold the roasted squash into the pasta before baking. 

– Flavor: Sweet and nutty, adding a wonderful autumnal flavor and a soft, creamy texture.

2. Caramelized Onions:

– Add-In: Slowly cook sliced onions in olive oil until they are golden and caramelized, then mix them into the pasta.

– Flavor: Rich, sweet, and savory, adding depth and a touch of sweetness to the dish.

3. Spinach or Kale:

– Add-In: Sauté fresh spinach or kale in olive oil with garlic until wilted, then fold into the pasta mixture before baking.

– Flavor: Adds a bit of earthiness and a pop of green, along with extra nutrients.

4. Mushrooms:

– Add-In: Sauté sliced cremini or portobello mushrooms in olive oil until they are golden brown, then mix them into the pasta.

– Flavor: Adds a meaty texture and umami richness, making the dish heartier.

5. Sun-Dried Tomatoes:

– Add-In: Chop sun-dried tomatoes and stir them into the pasta before baking. You can use the ones packed in oil for extra richness.

– Flavor: Tangy and sweet, they add a burst of concentrated tomato flavor that complements the creamy sauce.

6. Goat Cheese or Ricotta:

– Add-In: Dot the pasta with dollops of goat cheese or ricotta before baking, or mix it directly into the sauce for extra creaminess.

– Flavor: Adds a tangy, creamy element that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin sauce.

More delicious recipe variations

7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

– Add-In: Roast halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until crispy, then fold them into the pasta.

– Flavor: Slightly bitter with a crispy exterior, they add a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.

8. Walnuts or Pecans:

– Add-In: Toast walnuts or pecans and sprinkle them over the top of the pasta before baking, or mix them in for added texture.

– Flavor: Nutty and crunchy, they add a pleasant textural contrast and a rich flavor.

9. Apples or Pears:

– Add-In: Add thinly sliced apples or pears for a sweet and slightly tart contrast to the savory pasta.

– Flavor: Adds a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the warm spices in the dish.

10. Sage or Rosemary:

– Add-In: Freshly chopped sage or rosemary can be added to the sauce or sprinkled on top for a fragrant, earthy aroma.

– Flavor: Sage brings a warm, peppery flavor while rosemary offers a piney, woody taste that enhances the fall feel of the dish.

11. Smoked Paprika:

– Add-In: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the sauce or sprinkle it on top before baking for a smoky, slightly spicy kick.

– Flavor: Adds depth and a smoky flavor that enhances the overall richness of the savory dishes.

12. Artichoke Hearts:

– Add-In: Mix in canned or jarred artichoke hearts for a slightly tangy and earthy addition to the pasta bake.

– Flavor: Mildly nutty and tangy, they add an interesting texture and flavor dimension.

These variations and add-ins can help you customize your vegetarian fall baked pasta to suit your tastes or make it feel new each time you prepare it!

What I’ve been cooking lately

• Easy potato mushroom casserole (vegan bake gratin)
• Spicy chinese noodles recipe: Easy Vegan Noodle Bowls
• Easy Homemade Mango Habanero Salsa (authentic recipe)
• Easy Pumpkin Curry recipe: best roast pumpkin curry
• Best Vegan Banh Mi (Crispy tofu bánh mì Chay recipe)

Baked pumpkin pasta recipe FAQs

Pumpkin pasta bake variations and more FAQ

More dinner recipes you might enjoy

• Best vegetable Indian curry
• Brinjal Curry recipe (vegan)
• Delicious Green Thai curry recipe
• Easy vegan chickpea curry
• Coconut chickpea lemon curry