Gratinated Pasta with Pumpkin: An Autumn Delight and Healthy Option

Why It’s Irresistible

This recipe takes pasta to the next level: pumpkin adds sweetness and an irresistible orange hue, while ground meat and Gouda cheese add substance and a melty touch. «It’s autumnal, creamy, and healthy,» says De Luigi. Rich in vitamins A, C, and E, pumpkin not only tastes great—it boosts your immunity. In just 40 minutes, you have a dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients (4 servings)

• 1 package of De Luigi® Rotini

• Sufficient water

• Salt to taste

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped

• 3 tablespoons onion, finely chopped

• 2 cups ground meat

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 pumpkins, halved and hollowed

• Gouda cheese to taste, grated

• Parsley to taste, for garnish

• Sliced bread to taste, to serve

How to Prepare

1. Cook the pasta: Boil water with salt, add the De Luigi® Rotini, and cook for 9 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the sauce: In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic, onion, and ground meat for 5 minutes until the meat changes color. Add heavy cream, Parmesan, pumpkin puree, salt, and pepper; cook for 3 minutes. Remove from heat.

3. Mix: Combine the pasta with the sauce in a bowl until well incorporated.

4. Gratinate: Fill the pumpkin halves with the mixture, top with Gouda cheese, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts and browns. Garnish with parsley.

5. Serve: Present in the pumpkin halves with bread on the side.

Customize Your Dish

• Meatless: Omit the ground meat and increase the pumpkin puree to 1.5 cups for a vegetarian twist.

• Extra crispy: Add breadcrumbs on top of the cheese before baking.

• Spicy touch: A pinch of chili powder in the sauce for a subtle kick.

Practical Tips

• Alternative presentation: Use a baking dish if you prefer something more classic—just as delicious.

• Perfect pumpkin: Roast the halves for 10 minutes before filling them to intensify the flavor.

• Al dente key: Don’t overcook the pasta; it will maintain better texture when gratinated.