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Creamy Pumpkin Pasta

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A velvety and comforting pasta dish made with creamy pumpkin purée, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for fall evenings, quick weeknight dinners, or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

  • Pasta: 300g (10 oz) – Fettuccine, penne, or fusilli work best to hold the sauce.
  • Pumpkin purée: 1 cup – The creamy, earthy heart of the dish.
  • Garlic cloves: 2, minced – Adds a mellow warmth and aroma.
  • Onion: 1 small, finely chopped – Forms the savory base.
  • Heavy cream: ½ cup – Creates a silky, indulgent texture.
  • Vegetable broth: ½ cup – Loosens the sauce while adding flavor.
  • Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated – Adds salty richness and umami.
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons – For sautéing and richness.
  • Nutmeg: A pinch – Brings warmth and depth.
  • Salt: To taste – Balances and sharpens all flavors.
  • Black pepper: To taste – Adds subtle heat and earthiness.
  • Fresh sage or parsley: Optional, for garnish and freshness.

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Equipment: Set a large pot of salted water to boil for the pasta. Place a skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In the skillet, warm olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
  3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Cook pasta according to package instructions until just shy of al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  4. Assemble the Dish: To the skillet, add pumpkin purée, cream, broth, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and simmer gently.
  5. Cook to Perfection: Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
  6. Finishing Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle with more cheese and herbs if using.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm in shallow bowls with an optional drizzle of olive oil or crispy sage leaves on top.

Notes

  • Don’t use sweetened pumpkin pie filling — only plain pumpkin purée.
  • Add spinach, kale, or mushrooms for more texture and nutrition.
  • Finish with chili flakes or lemon zest for a flavor twist.
  • Top with toasted seeds or breadcrumbs for crunch.