Baked Roasted Pumpkin Penne Pasta With Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe
This mouthwatering Baked Roasted Pumpkin Penne Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce is a delightful twist on classic Italian pasta, incorporating rich pumpkin flavors and a zesty, aromatic tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner, itβs a delicious way to combine the heartiness of pumpkin with the comfort of pasta. Ideal for vegetarians and those who enjoy a mildly spiced, cheesy, and aromatic dish, this recipe takes a bit of time but guarantees an irresistible meal.
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Roasted Pumpkin:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Durum Wheat Penne Pasta | 300 grams |
| Kaddu (Parangikai/Pumpkin), cut into chunks | 300 grams |
| Garlic, smashed | 8 cloves |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
For the Tomato Basil Sauce:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes | 5 large |
| Basil Leaves | 5 leaves |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Garlic, chopped or Parsley | 4 cloves or 2 tablespoons |
| Whole Black Peppercorns, crushed | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 teaspoon (for garnishing) |
| Salt | To taste |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin
Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C). Spread the chopped pumpkin chunks on a baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. Add the smashed garlic cloves and season with a pinch of salt. Roast the pumpkin in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and golden brown, stirring occasionally for even roasting.
Step 2: Cook the Penne Pasta
While the pumpkin is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Tomato Basil Sauce
In a large pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the chopped garlic or parsley and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the tomatoes, crushing them lightly with a spoon, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, until they break down into a thick sauce. Add the crushed black peppercorns, sugar, and salt to taste. Stir in the fresh basil leaves and let the sauce simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Once the roasted pumpkin is done, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a large bowl. Add the cooked penne pasta to the bowl, then pour the tomato basil sauce over the pasta and pumpkin mixture. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top and stir again until everything is well-coated.
Transfer the entire mixture to a greased baking dish. If you like your cheese extra gooey, you can add a little extra mozzarella on top. Bake the pasta in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is slightly golden.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the dish is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. For a final touch, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for a burst of richness, if desired. Serve this warm, comforting dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Protein | ~15 grams |
| Carbohydrates | ~45 grams |
| Fat | ~12 grams |
| Saturated Fat | ~6 grams |
| Fiber | ~5 grams |
| Sugars | ~8 grams |
| Sodium | ~400 mg |
| Calcium | ~200 mg |
Tips for the Best Baked Roasted Pumpkin Penne Pasta
- Add Spice: If you prefer a bit of spice, you can add a pinch of red chili flakes to the tomato basil sauce.
- Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the mozzarella cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
- Pumpkin Variations: For extra flavor, roast the pumpkin with a sprinkle of cumin or smoked paprika.
- Cheese lovers: You can top the dish with a combination of cheeses like Parmesan, Ricotta, or even cheddar for a more indulgent version.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
This hearty and flavorful Baked Roasted Pumpkin Penne Pasta with Tomato Basil Sauce is a perfect fusion of classic Italian and Indian-inspired flavors. Itβs ideal for a filling dinner that will satisfy everyone at the table, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just enjoying a quiet night in.
