Save to Pinterest Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti is pure cozy season comfort food with a velvety pumpkin sauce and molten cheese that creates the dreamiest golden topping as it bakes. Each forkful brings creamy burrata, nutty Parmesan, and the nostalgic warmth of autumn right to your table. This dish easily impresses at gatherings or transforms any night into a special occasion meal.
I first made this when I wanted something festive for a Sunday dinner and it became an instant favorite. Now anytime I find good pumpkin or burrata I am quick to put this on the menu.
Ingredients
- Ziti pasta: You want tubular pasta with ridges so the rich sauce clings to every bite Choose a bronze-cut brand if possible for best texture
- Olive oil: Choose extra virgin for depth and fruity aroma
- Yellow onion: Essential for sweetness and savory balance Look for firm onions with no green shoots
- Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic gives punch Avoid pre-chopped for best flavor
- Pumpkin purée: Use pure unsweetened pumpkin The brighter the color the deeper the flavor
- Vegetable broth: This thins and flavors the sauce Low-sodium is best to control saltiness
- Heavy cream: Adds lush texture Seek out real cream not half and half
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best for melting and taste Choose a wedge with a rich nutty smell
- Ground nutmeg: Warm and aromatic Buy whole nutmeg to grate fresh
- Dried sage: Classic with pumpkin Make sure it smells vibrant not musty
- Chili flakes: Optional but adds gentle warmth Use sparingly for a subtle kick
- Salt and black pepper: Adjust to taste Go for flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Burrata cheese: This makes the dish truly special Look for plump balls packed in cream with no tears
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts for that perfect stretchy quality Always check freshness and shred your own if possible
- Fresh basil: Delivers a bright finish Only use leaves that are glossy and intensely green
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius or 400 degrees Fahrenheit Use a dab of olive oil or butter to grease a large baking dish about 9 by 13 inches This step ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking
- Cook and Drain the Pasta:
- Bring a very large pot of salted water to a strong boil Add the ziti and stir immediately so the pieces do not stick together Cook the pasta until just shy of al dente which is about two minutes less than the package says It will finish in the oven Drain well but do not rinse Set aside so it stays slightly warm
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat Add finely chopped onion and stir regularly for five minutes until the pieces are soft and glassy Do not rush this as the flavor base depends on slow cooking Add the minced garlic and cook for another full minute until the scent fills your kitchen but do not let it brown
- Build the Pumpkin Sauce:
- Still over medium heat add pumpkin purée to the skillet Stir and let it sizzle lightly Pour in vegetable broth and heavy cream and stir until the sauce is completely smooth Bring to a gentle simmer Keep stirring so nothing caps at the bottom
- Season the Sauce:
- Sprinkle in freshly grated Parmesan followed by ground nutmeg dried sage chili flakes salt and black pepper Taste and adjust as you go Keep simmering for three to four minutes so the flavors deepen and the sauce thickens Remove the pan from heat
- Combine Pasta with Sauce and Cheese:
- Place the drained pasta in a large mixing bowl Pour all the warm pumpkin sauce over it Add half the shredded mozzarella Toss carefully using a spatula ensuring every piece of ziti gets coated
- Layer the Pasta and Burrata:
- Spoon half of the dressed pasta into your greased baking dish Tear one ball of burrata open with your fingers and dot it in big creamy chunks across the surface Scatter half of the remaining mozzarella on top
- Finish with Remaining Layers:
- Add the rest of the pasta to the dish Tear the second burrata ball and scatter generously Top with the last of the mozzarella and Parmesan making sure every surface gets at least a touch
- Bake Until Golden and Bubbling:
- Slide the dish uncovered into your hot oven Bake for twenty five to thirty minutes until the cheese bubbles and turns golden brown on the edges If you like an even deeper color broil for the last minute Stay close so it does not burn Remove and let cool for five minutes so it sets up just enough to serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Shower the top with chopped fresh basil for a pop of color and aroma Cut generous squares and serve while still hot and luscious
Save to Pinterest I always look forward to the way burrata oozes into the hot pasta when you dig in The first time I served this my family actually applauded at the table It is strongly tied to our chill fall days and movie nights
Storage Tips
Once fully cooled cover tightly and refrigerate for up to four days Use a glass or ceramic container if possible to prevent the pasta from drying out To reheat cover loosely with foil and bake at 180 degrees Celsius or 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through or microwave single servings gently If freezing slice into portions and wrap in foil then place in an airtight bag Defrost overnight before reheating for best texture
Ingredient Substitutions
Butternut squash purée works equally well if you cannot get pumpkin Vegan heavy cream plus vegan mozzarella and nutty nutritional yeast allows you to make a completely dairy free version Gluten free ziti is a simple swap for those avoiding wheat
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a vinegary green salad scattered with pomegranate seeds and toasted pecans Garlic bread is always welcome on the side For a cozy holiday menu start your meal with a simple roasted beet salad and finish with apple or pear sorbet
Cultural and Historical Context
Ziti bakes like this are Italian American classics especially in colder climates where families gather for hearty casseroles Pumpkin brings a newer autumnal twist inspired by the Italian tradition of using winter squash in pasta Italian cooks often combine mellow cheeses like burrata with roasted vegetables and creamy sauces
Save to Pinterest Embrace the warmth of autumn with this luxurious Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti. Each bite brings cozy, creamy satisfaction that is perfect for your next special meal.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What makes the pumpkin sauce creamy?
The sauce combines pumpkin purée, heavy cream, and Parmesan for a rich, velvety texture that coats the ziti beautifully.
- → Can another cheese replace burrata?
Mozzarella or ricotta can be substituted, though burrata offers a uniquely creamy finish.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure the Parmesan is suitable for vegetarians.
- → How do I add extra flavor?
Try adding sautéed mushrooms or wilted spinach to the sauce, or sprinkle with chili flakes for heat.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best texture.
- → What’s the best way to serve it?
Let it cool slightly after baking and garnish with fresh basil. Pair with salad and a chilled white wine.