Baked Ziti with Pumpkin Alfredo Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that encapsulates the cozy warmth of the autumn season while gathering family together, look no further than our Baked Ziti with Pumpkin Alfredo. This heartwarming recipe is not only rich in flavor but also beautifully ties together the creamy textures and seasonal essence of pumpkin. It’s a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for family dinners, festive occasions, and sharing comfort around the table.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 2 cups pumpkin puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens.
5. Stir in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until well combined and creamy.
6. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Combine the cooked ziti pasta with the pumpkin Alfredo sauce until fully coated.
8. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
10. Allow the baked ziti to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Helpful Tips

For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with a little butter on top of the cheese before baking. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce. This recipe is also versatile; feel free to add cooked chicken or sautéed vegetables for extra protein and flavor.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have ziti, you can use any other tubular pasta, like penne or rigatoni. For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond milk and use a dairy-free cheese.

Pairings

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlicky sautéed greens, a simple arugula salad, or a warm, crusty bread. For drinks, consider a crisp apple cider or a light white wine to complement the creamy, savory flavors of the Baked Ziti with Pumpkin Alfredo.

We hope this cozy and delightful recipe brings warmth and joy to your family gatherings this autumn. Don’t forget to share your creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag @Zynahz on Instagram. We would love to hear your feedback on our website www.zynahz.com. Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes and follow us on social media for daily inspiration. Happy cooking!