Squash Baked Pasta
This organic squash baked ziti pasta is a cozy, healthy twist on a classic Italian comfort dish. Made with a creamy squash purée base, it’s layered with tender pasta, rich tomato flavors, and plenty of fresh mozzarella that melts to golden perfection. Finished with fragrant fresh basil, this dish is wholesome, nourishing, and perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. A must-try for anyone looking for a healthy baked pasta recipe that’s both indulgent and nutrient-packed.
Servings 8
Ingredients
Squash Purée
- 2 whole Honey Nut Squash Organic
- 1/4 Cup Heavy Whipping Cream Organic
Baked Pasta
- 17.6 oz Pasta (I use gemelli) Organic
- 3 tbsp Tomato Paste Organic
- 2 tbsp Red Pepper Organic
- 2 tbsp Italian Seasoning Organic
- 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme Organic
- 3 Cloves Freshly Minced Garlic Organic
- 1 Cup Pasta Water Filtered
- 2 Cups Crushed Tomatoes Organic
- 1/4 Cup Heavy Whipping Cream Organic
- 10 Whole Chicken Thighs Organic
- 1 Block Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Organic
- 1 Ball Hand Rolled Mozzarella Cheese Organic
Topping
- 2 Tbsp Fresh Basil Organic
- 1/4 Cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Organic
Instructions
Purée
- Cut and peel 2 whole honey nut squash. Boil until soft, about 15 minutes.
- Add a Splash of Heavy Whipping Cream.
- Blend with an immersion blender until Smooth.
Cook Pasta
- Boil pasta in salted water with a drizzle of olive oil until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then strain.
Make the Sauce
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, add olive oil, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in tomato paste and let it bloom for 1–2 minutes.
- Lower heat, add reserved pasta water, and whisk until combined.
- Stir in squash purée, crushed tomatoes, and heavy cream until smooth.
Combine Pasta and Chicken
- Add pasta and chicken thighs into the sauce. Stir until evenly coated.
Assemble
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and pieces of fresh, hand-rolled mozzarella.
Bake
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, until cheese is melted and golden brown.
Serve
- Garnish with fresh basil and parmesan, enjoy!
Video
@itislaurenmarie My favorite fall pasta!! Full Recipe on my website under organic recipes! Laurenmariehealth.com #fallrecipes #squashrecipe #easydinnerideas #pastarecipes #healthydinner
♬ original sound – Country Sayings