Creamy Pumpkin Pasta

Name: Creamy Pumpkin Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta of your choice; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tsp dried sage; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy Comfort Foods

I absolutely love making creamy pumpkin pasta during the fall months. The combination of velvety pumpkin and savory spices creates a dish that is not only comforting but also feels festive. Every bite is a delightful celebration of autumn flavors that warms my soul. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends, this pasta is sure to impress. Plus, it comes together in just a little over 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when I crave something indulgent yet easy.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:41:35.632Z

When I first experimented with creamy pumpkin pasta, I knew I was onto something special. I introduced spices like nutmeg and sage, which paired perfectly with the rich pumpkin puree, creating a unique depth of flavor. The sauce comes together quickly, ensuring the pasta remains al dente. I found that freshly grated Parmesan added an extra layer of creaminess that tied everything together.

One key tip I discovered was to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps to adjust the sauce's consistency, making it even silkier without losing that rich pumpkin essence. It’s a delightful dish that captures the spirit of the season!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce with a hint of fall spices
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Versatile: great for both family meals and special occasions

The Secret to a Velvety Sauce

The key to achieving a rich, creamy pumpkin sauce lies in the heavy cream and pumpkin puree. The cream adds smoothness, while the pumpkin provides that signature fall flavor. Make sure to use high-quality pumpkin puree, as it can significantly affect the taste of the dish. If you want to lighten it up a bit, substituting half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt can give you a similar creaminess with added tang.

When making the sauce, always sauté the garlic in olive oil until fragrant but not browned, which typically takes about 30 seconds. This step enhances the garlic's flavor and prevents bitterness. Once you add the pumpkin puree and cream, stirring constantly will help create a glossy texture that ensures even distribution of flavors throughout the pasta.

Perfecting Your Pasta

Cooking the pasta to ‘al dente’ is crucial for the best outcome. This means cooking it until it is firm to the bite, which usually takes one to two minutes less than the package instructions. This slight undercooking allows the pasta to absorb the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. If you accidentally overcook it, adding some of the reserved pasta water when mixing can help revive it slightly by creating a smoother texture.

Don’t forget to generously salt the boiling water prior to adding your pasta. This enhances the flavor of the pasta itself and contributes to the overall taste of the dish. A rule of thumb is to add about a tablespoon of salt for every 4 quarts of water—this is particularly important when working with a creamy sauce that can mute the flavors if the pasta is under-seasoned.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious creamy pumpkin pasta:

Ingredients

12 oz pasta of your choice
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp dried sage
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy pumpkin pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.

Make the Sauce

In the same pot, add a little olive oil and sauté minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, nutmeg, and sage. Mix well and let simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until reaching desired consistency. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Plate the creamy pumpkin pasta, garnishing with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Serving the dish hot will maximize the creamy texture and flavor.

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread.

Storage Options

If you're looking to make this creamy pumpkin pasta in advance, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may find the sauce thickens; simply add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up as you warm it over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta. However, it's best to freeze the sauce separately to maintain the sauce's texture. Freeze it in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out excess air to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently, adding fresh pasta if desired.

Flavor Variations

To elevate the flavors of your creamy pumpkin pasta, try adding other spices such as cinnamon or smoked paprika, which complement the pumpkin's sweetness beautifully. These spices can be added during the simmer step of the sauce to infuse the dish with warmth and complexity. Additionally, tossing in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach can bring freshness and extra texture.

For a protein boost, consider mixing in some cooked chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon. These additions not only enhance the dish's heartiness but also contribute savory notes that contrast nicely with the creamy pumpkin. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as the added ingredients may alter the overall flavor balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

→ What type of pasta works best?

I recommend using fettuccine or penne, but any pasta shape you prefer will work well.

→ Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just roast or steam the fresh pumpkin until tender, then puree it before adding to the sauce.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.