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Pumpkin Marinara Baked Ziti

Name: Pumpkin Marinara Baked Ziti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 15 oz canned pumpkin puree; 24 oz marinara sauce; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or dried); 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on September 2, 2025

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Pumpkin Marinara Baked Ziti is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of creamy pumpkin and zesty marinara in a cheesy embrace. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes, filling the air with warm, savory goodness that could make any pumpkin hater reconsider their stance. savory Italian sausage ragu.

This recipe isn’t just a culinary creation; it’s a nostalgic reminder of cozy family dinners where everyone gathered around the table, digging into plates overflowing with cheesy pasta goodness. turkey meatball sliders Perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy movie night, this dish promises to deliver an experience as rich as its flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Pumpkin Marinara Baked Ziti is easy to prepare, allowing you to whip it up in no time
The unique blend of flavors creates an irresistible taste that even non-pumpkin fans will adore
Vibrant orange hues and gooey cheese make it visually appealing for any occasion
Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, it’s sure to impress your guests

I still remember the first time I served this baked ziti at a family gathering; the silence was golden until someone exclaimed how amazing it tasted!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ziti Pasta: Use about 12 ounces of ziti for the perfect pasta-to-sauce ratio. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Sausages with Zucchini recipe.
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Make sure to choose pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for optimal flavor.
Marinara Sauce: A 24-ounce jar works best; opt for your favorite brand or homemade sauce.
Ricotta Cheese: You’ll need 15 ounces; this adds creaminess and balances the flavors beautifully.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: About 2 cups will create that gooey, melted topping we all crave.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for the best flavor and sprinkle generously on top. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs recipe.
Fresh Basil: Chopped basil adds freshness; feel free to substitute with dried if you’re in a pinch.
Garlic Powder: A teaspoon enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget these staples! Adjust according to taste for balance.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Add 12 ounces of ziti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Prepare the Sauce Mixture: In a large bowl, combine canned pumpkin puree with marinara sauce. Stir in ricotta cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and half of the chopped basil until well blended.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked ziti into the sauce mixture until every piece is nicely coated. The vibrant orange color will make you want to dive right in!

Assemble the Dish : Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread half of your pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of your mozzarella cheese on top before layering with the remaining pasta followed by more mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake It Up!: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Garnish and Serve : Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes before garnishing with remaining fresh basil. Serve warm alongside crusty bread or a simple salad.

This Pumpkin Marinara Baked Ziti isn’t just food; it’s a love letter to autumn evenings spent with loved ones over good conversations and hearty meals. cranberry orange quick bread sweet potato fritters Enjoy!

You Must Know

This delightful Pumpkin Marinara Baked Ziti combines comforting pasta and savory pumpkin for a unique twist
The creamy texture and aromatic spices create a dish that warms both heart and home, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or family dinners

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta while your pumpkin marinara simmers. Layer pasta, sauce, and cheese in a baking dish to ensure even cooking and flavor mingling.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap traditional cheese for goat cheese or add sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed throughout for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a creamier sauce, blend part of the pumpkin marinara before mixing with pasta
Always taste-test your sauce before layering; adjusting seasoning can make a big difference
When baking, cover with foil to prevent over-browning, then uncover towards the end

Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of my friends raving about the unique flavors at our last potluck. They couldn’t believe how delicious pumpkin could be in pasta!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, using fresh pumpkin adds a lovely texture and flavor but requires more prep time.

What type of cheese works best?

Mozzarella is classic, but ricotta or parmesan can elevate your baked ziti experience.

How can I make it vegan?

Substitute cheese with plant-based alternatives and use nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.