If you are craving a cozy, creamy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe brilliantly combines the silky richness of burrata cheese with the subtle sweetness and earthiness of pumpkin puree, all baked into perfectly al dente ziti pasta. Each bite is a delightful balance of flavors and textures, from the gentle heat of red pepper flakes to the savory depth of parmesan, making this dish an unforgettable autumn-inspired meal that’s perfect for family dinners or impressing friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pot filled with baked pasta showing a creamy orange sauce coating short tube-shaped pasta. The top layer is covered with melted white cheese, browned slightly in spots, sprinkled with grated cheese and red chili flakes, with a few green herb leaves placed on top. A fork is inserted into the pasta near the bottom right, creating a small gap showing pasta and sauce beneath. The pot is on a white marbled surface with some green leaves nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are beautifully simple yet essential to making the Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe a standout dish. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s contributing creaminess, a touch of spice, or that vibrant, comforting color.

Ziti pasta: The perfect sturdy pasta shape that holds sauce beautifully and won’t get mushy in the oven.
Kosher salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
Olive oil: Helps to sauté aromatics and adds a lovely fruitiness.
Garlic cloves, finely minced: Brings a fragrant depth and warmth to the sauce.
Shallot, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and complexity that onions can’t quite match.
Crushed red pepper flakes: Just the right amount of gentle heat to awaken the palate.
Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient, providing creamy texture and a hint of seasonal sweetness.
Half and half or heavy cream: Makes the sauce irresistibly rich and luscious.
Reserved starchy pasta water: A secret to perfect sauce consistency and silky smooth pasta coating.
Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, umami goodness with a lovely nutty finish.
Burrata cheese: Creamy, milky, and indulgent—it’s the crowning glory of this baked ziti.

How to Make Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Cook the Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to get it ready for baking. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook your ziti pasta just until al dente, following the package instructions carefully. Don’t forget to reserve one cup of the starchy pasta water before draining—the pasta water will work magic in your sauce, helping bind everything together.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat up the olive oil in a large, oven-safe 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic, diced shallot, a generous pinch of salt and pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to awaken your senses. Stir frequently as the mix softens and becomes fragrant—about five minutes. This base is what gives the sauce its vibrant depth.

Step 3: Create the Pumpkin Sauce

Now, stir in the pumpkin puree along with the half and half and half a cup of your reserved pasta water. Whisk the mixture vigorously until everything melds into a luxuriously smooth sauce. If it feels too thick, add a splash more pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Finish by whisking in your parmesan cheese, which will gently thicken the sauce and bring a savory tang.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with your pumpkin sauce. Toss everything together so every piece of ziti is gloriously coated in the creamy pumpkin blend. Now, carefully tear apart the burrata cheese and scatter it over the top. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle a little extra parmesan for that irresistible cheesy crust once baked.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop the entire skillet into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You want the cheese to melt into a bubbly, golden perfection and the sauce to be utterly warmed through. When ready, sprinkle on extra parmesan and crushed red pepper flakes for a beautiful finish and an extra kick of flavor before serving.

How to Serve Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe

A white pot filled with smooth, thick, creamy, orange sauce covering the bottom and sides. On top, there is a layer of pale yellow cooked pasta tubes scattered unevenly. A wooden spoon is dipped into the sauce near the bottom right, with some sauce clinging to it. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple garnish can elevate your Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe to a restaurant-level dish. Fresh herbs like chopped sage or thyme work wonderfully to add an earthy brightness. A drizzle of good quality olive oil over the top just before serving adds a glossy, inviting sheen and extra richness. If you love a little texture contrast, toasted pumpkin seeds sprinkled on top make a crunchy surprise.

Side Dishes

This baked ziti pairs perfectly with light, crisp salads to balance its richness. Consider a zesty arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy fennel and apple slaw. Roasted or sautéed green vegetables, such as garlic spinach or broccolini, also complement the comforting pasta beautifully without weighing down the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in mini cast-iron skillets straight from the oven—perfect for a cozy dinner party. You can also layer the ziti and pumpkin sauce in a glass casserole dish for beautiful, visible layers that showcase the creamy orange sauce and melty cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might be hard to come by!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

This baked ziti freezes exceptionally well. Once cooled completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor retention.

Reheating

To reheat, place the ziti in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and warm it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, about 15 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions covered loosely with a damp paper towel to preserve moisture—just be sure to add a splash of water or cream if it seems dry.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While ziti is traditional and holds the sauce well, penne, rigatoni, or even tubular shells would work beautifully. Just aim for a sturdy pasta that can stand up to baking.

Is it possible to make the pumpkin sauce vegan?

You can swap the half and half or cream for a plant-based alternative like oat or cashew cream, and replace parmesan with a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast. The burrata could be omitted or substituted with a vegan cheese to keep it dairy-free.

How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?

The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth without overwhelming the other flavors. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking, adding less for a mild dish or more for an exciting kick.

Can I prepare this recipe without an oven-safe skillet?

Yes! Simply cook the sauce and pasta in separate pans, combine everything in a baking dish, and add the burrata on top before baking. Just ensure the dish is oven-safe for the final step.

What’s the best way to shred or break apart burrata for this recipe?

Burrata is incredibly soft and creamy inside, so gently pulling it apart with your hands works best. This preserves the luscious texture and allows the cheese to melt beautifully into the baked ziti.

Final Thoughts

Sharing the Pumpkin Burrata Baked Ziti Recipe is like inviting you into my kitchen for a comforting, soul-satisfying meal that never fails to impress. It strikes the perfect balance between cozy and elegant, with a creamy pumpkin sauce and soft, gooey burrata that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become one of your favorite go-to dishes whenever you want something special yet effortless. So grab those ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a beautiful, delicious meal that feels just like home.