Autumn Pasta Bake is a comforting and hearty pasta dish perfect for autumn. With the rich flavors of pumpkin and the creaminess of mascarpone, this fall casserole is sure to warm your soul. Imagine a cozy evening with family, enjoying this cheesy and nutritious baked pasta, filled with seasonal vegetables and topped with golden cheese. Let’s get started on this delightful recipe that celebrates the best of the season!

Why You’ll Love This Autumn Pasta Bake

This Autumn Pasta Bake is the epitome of comfort food, and here’s why you’ll adore it:

Rich and creamy texture from mascarpone and mozzarella.
Hearty ground turkey adds protein, making it a wholesome meal.

Seasonal ingredients like pumpkin and tomatoes enhance flavor.
Perfect for cozy family dinners or fall gatherings.
Easy to prepare and can be made in one pot.
Great for meal prep; store leftovers for quick lunches.
Vegetarian options available for those who prefer plant-based meals.
Can be customized with your favorite fall vegetables.

This dish embodies a cozy fall pasta bake experience that you won’t forget!

Ingredients for Autumn Pasta Bake

Gather these items:

1 lb ground turkey
1 package (17.6 oz) pappardelle pasta
2 pints Heavenly Villagio Marzano® tomatoes (divided)
2 cups cubed pumpkin (divided)
8 oz mascarpone cheese (room temp)
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 small red bell pepper, diced
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp smoked paprika
⅛ tsp nutmeg
¼ tsp cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking
Fresh parsley and sage for garnish

How to Make Autumn Pasta Bake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F.
Step 2: Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté onion, red pepper, and garlic in olive oil until softened.
Step 4: Add ground turkey, cook until browned, and season with spices.
Step 5: Stir in tomatoes, pumpkin, and tomato paste. Cook until softened.

Step 6: Mix in mascarpone, mozzarella, and parmesan to create a creamy sauce.
Step 7: Combine pasta with sauce, transfer to a baking dish, and top with remaining ingredients.
Step 8: Bake for 20-25 minutes. Broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispy topping.

Step 9: Garnish and serve.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Autumn Pasta Bake

Keep these in mind:

Adjust seasonings to your taste for a personalized touch.
Use leftover turkey for a quicker option post-holiday.
Can substitute other pasta types if desired, such as penne or rigatoni.
Consider adding spinach or kale for a nutritional boost.

Best Ways to Serve Autumn Pasta Bake

This hearty fall pasta bake recipe is delightful on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

Pair with a fresh green salad to complement the richness.

Serve with crusty garlic bread for dipping.
Top with fresh herbs, like parsley and sage, for added flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Autumn Pasta Bake

To store leftovers, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This easy autumn pasta bake for dinner can also be frozen for longer storage!

Frequently Asked Questions About Autumn Pasta Bake

What’s the secret to perfect Autumn Pasta Bake?

The secret lies in using fresh, quality ingredients like seasonal vegetables and cheeses. This enhances the flavors, making your comforting autumn pasta bake truly stand out.

Can I make Autumn Pasta Bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance, assemble it, and store it in the fridge. Simply bake it right before serving for a freshly cooked meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Autumn Pasta Bake?

Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente before baking. Also, ensure you have enough sauce to keep the pasta moist while baking.

Variations of Autumn Pasta Bake You Can Try

Feel free to customize your autumn pasta bake with these delicious variations:

Swap ground turkey for vegetarian options like lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian autumn pasta bake.
Add different vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a colorful mix.
Incorporate different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for more flavor.

Try a spicy twist by adding red pepper flakes or jalapeños.

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If you’re looking for more comforting meals, you might enjoy our Creamy Spinach Mushroom Shrimp or Greek Chili Chicken Alfredo. For a delightful dessert, try our Blueberry Blondies.