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As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm, comforting dish to bring the family together. The Effortless Cheesy Pumpkin & Chicken Bake is a delightful amalgamation of seasonal flavors, combining the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the savory richness of chicken. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a celebration of fall's finest ingredients.

Effortless Cheesy Pumpkin & Chicken Bake

Embrace the cozy flavors of fall with this Effortless Cheesy Pumpkin & Chicken Bake, a perfect easy weeknight dinner that celebrates the season. Combining creamy pumpkin and savory chicken, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly comforting. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that the whole family will love. Try it tonight and savor the warmth of autumn on your plate. Save this recipe for later!

Ingredients
  

2 cups diced cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)

1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree

1 cup cream of chicken soup

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or penne)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Mix the base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.

      Combine ingredients: Add the diced chicken and cooked pasta to the mixture. Gently fold everything together until the chicken and pasta are fully coated with the cheesy pumpkin mixture.

        Prepare baking dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour the cheesy pumpkin and chicken mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

          Add toppings: If you're using breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the dish. Add an extra handful of shredded cheddar cheese over the breadcrumbs for an extra cheesy finish.

            Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is lightly golden.

              Garnish & serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 6 servings