Pumpkin Pasta

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 420
• Protein: 12 grams per serving
• Carbohydrates: 50 grams per serving
• Fat: 20 grams per serving
• Fiber: 3 grams per serving
• Sugar: 3 grams per serving
• Sodium: 350 mg per serving

Why Make This Pumpkin Pasta

Pumpkin pasta is the perfect dish for cozy evenings and autumn gatherings. The creamy pumpkin sauce delivers a rich, comforting experience, making it an instant favorite. Its smooth texture, delightful aroma, and subtly sweet flavor create a perfect harmony that anyone can enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, using simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a weeknight meal, this pumpkin pasta will leave everyone asking for seconds.

How to Make Pumpkin Pasta

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious pumpkin pasta that’s sure to impress. It’s straightforward enough for even beginner cooks, yet flavorful enough to satisfy seasoned chefs. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta of choice
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

• Step 1: Preparation

  Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Once done, drain it well and set aside.

• Step 2: Sautéing Garlic

  In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make your mouth water!

• Step 3: Mixing Pumpkin and Cream

  Stir in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring continuously until everything is well combined and heated through.

• Step 4: Finishing

  Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. Remove from heat and gently fold in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pasta

Serve this creamy pumpkin pasta in warm bowls, and don’t hesitate to sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper on top for added flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce! It’s a fantastic main course for family dinners or an elegant option for entertaining guests.

How to Store Pumpkin Pasta

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to rejuvenate the sauce. Avoid freezing, as the creamy texture may separate when thawed.

Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Pasta

• Choose the Right Pasta: Short shapes like penne or fusilli hold the creamy sauce better than long spaghetti.
• Pumpkin Alternatives: If you don’t have pumpkin puree, butternut squash puree works just as well and offers a similar flavor.
• Seasonings: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper for a little warmth and complexity in flavor.
• Make It Veggie-Friendly: Swap out the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, incorporate cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas into the dish.

Delicious Variations

• Spicy Pumpkin Pasta: Add red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic for a kick of heat.
• Herbed Pumpkin Pasta: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a fresh and vibrant taste.
• Cheesy Pumpkin Pasta: Increase the cheese content by blending different types like goat cheese or ricotta for extra creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
  Yes! Roasted and blended fresh pumpkin will give you a wonderful flavor and texture, but be sure to adjust the water content accordingly.

• What pasta is best for this recipe?
  While you can use any pasta, shorter shapes like fusilli, rotini, or penne work best as they hold the sauce well.

• How can I make this dish lighter?
  You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use a low-fat cream alternative for a lighter option while still keeping it creamy.

• Can I add protein to the pumpkin pasta?
  Absolutely! Cooked chicken, ground turkey, or even chickpeas are great options to boost the protein content of your meal.

• What can I serve with pumpkin pasta?
  Consider pairing it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to create a complete meal.

Conclusion

This delightful pumpkin pasta is not just satisfying; it’s also a celebration of the unique flavors of the season. Its creamy, comforting texture provides a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy weeknight or serving it at a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients and get cooking—you won’t regret it!

Creamy Pumpkin Pasta

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• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A deliciously creamy pumpkin pasta that’s perfect for cozy evenings and autumn gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz pasta of choice
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Once done, drain it well and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring continuously.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss together. Remove from heat and fold in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Serve warm garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

Serve with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper. Pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 40mg