Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for 2 minutes less than the package instructions. This will ensure the pasta finishes cooking in the oven without becoming mushy.
2. Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add Onion and Garlic: Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Bell Pepper and Zucchini: Stir in the diced bell pepper and zucchini, cooking until they soften, about 5 minutes. These vegetables add texture and flavor to the pasta bake.

Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Tomato Sauce

1. Add Pumpkin and Tomatoes: Stir in the pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes with their juices, and tomato sauce, mixing until well combined.
2. Add Broth and Tomato Paste: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the tomato paste. Stir well to incorporate.
3. Season the Sauce: Add oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Mix Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Stir until the pasta is fully coated with the pumpkin-tomato sauce.
2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Add Cheese Topping

1. Top with Mozzarella and Parmesan: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the pasta mixture.
2. Add Ricotta Dollops (Optional): If using ricotta, add small dollops on top of the cheese layer for a creamy texture.

Step 6: Bake the Pasta

1. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove Foil and Broil: Remove the foil, then broil the pasta for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch (if desired).
2. Serve Hot: Scoop into bowls and enjoy this comforting pasta bake with a side salad or garlic bread.