Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe

I absolutely love how this Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe comes together with its creamy, comforting pumpkin sauce and that luscious burrata melting on top. It’s one of those dishes that instantly feels cozy, perfect for crisp fall evenings or whenever you’re craving something flavorful yet soothing. When I first tried it, I was surprised by how the pumpkin adds a subtle sweet earthiness that pairs so beautifully with the tang of parmesan and the creamy cheese.

You’ll find that this Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe is perfect to make ahead for a dinner party or a weeknight meal that feels extra special without too much fuss. The combination of ingredients is simple, but the result is a real showstopper. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some pumpkin into a savory dish in case you’re not all about the traditional pies and lattes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients blend beautifully to create a creamy, subtly spiced pasta bake. I recommend using good-quality burrata and fresh parmesan for the best flavor and texture — they really make a difference here.

• Ziti pasta: Its tubular shape holds onto the sauce perfectly, making every bite rich.
• Kosher salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
• Olive oil: Use extra virgin for a nice fruity undertone in the sauté.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic adds that classic savory punch.
• Shallot: Adds sweetness and mild onion flavor without overpowering.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Gives a gentle heat that complements the pumpkin’s sweetness.
• Pumpkin puree: Not pumpkin pie filling — make sure it’s pure pumpkin for that authentic savory taste.
• Half and half or heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy; heavy cream will create an even richer texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds umami depth and a salty tang that cuts through the creaminess.
• Burrata cheese: The star ingredient — fresh, creamy, and melts beautifully on top.

Variations

I love how flexible this Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe is, so I often tweak it based on what’s in my fridge or the season. You should feel free to personalize it too — it’s all about making it your own cozy meal.

• Add vegetables: I sometimes toss in sautéed mushrooms or spinach to add layers of texture and nutrition.
• Swap cheeses: If you don’t have burrata, fresh mozzarella works fine, though burrata adds that extra creaminess I adore.
• Make it spicy: For a bolder kick, increase the crushed red pepper or add a pinch of smoked paprika.
• Dairy-free alternative: Try using coconut cream instead of half and half and a vegan cheese substitute to suit dietary needs.

How to Make Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water — like, really salty, almost as salty as the sea. Cooking the ziti according to the package instructions until just al dente is crucial because it’ll continue cooking in the oven. Be sure to reserve about 1 cup of that starchy pasta water before draining — that little trick keeps your sauce silky and helps everything bind together.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and diced shallot along with a generous pinch of salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir often and cook gently — about 5 minutes until the shallots are soft and translucent but not browned. This step develops a fragrant and flavorful base that really carries the pumpkin sauce.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Pumpkin Sauce

Now stir in the pumpkin puree, half and half, and about half a cup of the reserved pasta water. Whisk everything together until the sauce is smooth and creamy — add a bit more of the pasta water if it feels too thick. Then, whisk in the parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce creating a luscious texture that clings to every piece of pasta.

Step 4: Combine, Top, and Bake

Add the drained ziti into the pumpkin sauce and toss it gently but thoroughly. Then pull apart the burrata cheese and nestle it evenly over the top — this is what makes the dish irresistibly creamy and decadent. Sprinkle a little extra parmesan on top, pop it in the preheated oven, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden on top.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe

How to Serve Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this baked ziti with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and a few crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat and color. Sometimes I like to add fresh chopped parsley or sage leaves — they add a bright herbal note that balances the creamy pumpkin.

Side Dishes

Serving this with a crisp green salad, like arugula dressed with lemon and olive oil, cuts through the richness perfectly. Roasted Brussels sprouts or garlic bread are also favorites of mine to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I like to portion the Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe into individual small cast iron skillets. It looks so elegant and ensures everyone gets their bubbly cheesy top. Adding edible flowers or microgreens as a final touch always impresses guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and they last up to 3 days. When I reheat, I recommend adding a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce from drying out.

Freezing

This baked ziti freezes surprisingly well! I freeze portions in freezer-safe containers, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in the oven. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights.

Reheating

I like reheating in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to keep moisture in. It usually takes 15-20 minutes, and the leftovers come out almost as good as fresh — creamy and bubbly. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the cheese separate.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe has become one of my go-to comfort dishes that still feels a little special and seasonal. I love how it blends familiar pasta with the unexpected twist of pumpkin and luxurious burrata — it always impresses friends and family alike. I really encourage you to give it a try, especially as the cooler months roll in; it’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug right at the table. I’m confident once you try it, it’ll become a favorite in your recipe rotation too.

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