Name: Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces rigatoni pasta; 3 tablespoons butter; 1/2 yellow onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon ground sage; 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

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If you’re looking for a comforting meal that captures the essence of fall, then you’ve found it with this Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta! This dish is a true favorite in my home because it’s not just delicious; it’s also super quick to whip up. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy a bowl of creamy goodness that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The combination of pumpkin and parmesan creates a rich sauce that wraps around the pasta beautifully, making every bite a warm hug for your taste buds.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this recipe will impress everyone at the table. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, which makes it even more appealing. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy evenings.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and rich flavor.
Versatile: Great as a main dish or as a side to proteins like chicken or Italian sausage.
Seasonal Flavor: This recipe captures the cozy flavors of fall with pumpkin and spices.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and simply heat it when ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are not only simple but also wholesome. Most of them are pantry staples, making this recipe both convenient and delicious!

For the Pasta

8 ounces rigatoni pasta (or your favorite short cut pasta)

For the Sauce

3 tablespoons butter
1/2 yellow onion, diced
pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground sage
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated (plus extra for serving)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some variations to make it your own:

Add some greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
Spice it up: For more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Go dairy-free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a dairy-free option.
Mix in veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms or roasted butternut squash to elevate the dish further.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked pasta will soak up all that luscious sauce without becoming mushy.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in your diced onion and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they become translucent and soft. Then, toss in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Sautéing these aromatics brings out their natural sweetness, creating a flavorful base for our sauce.

Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Sauce

Next, add the pumpkin puree to your skillet and stir well to combine with the onions. Allow it to sauté for about one minute before pouring in the heavy whipping cream. Whisk everything together until smooth! Now mix in salt, pepper, sage, nutmeg, and brown sugar—this blend is what makes our sauce so comforting. Let it simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes before stirring in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted.

Step 4: Combine With Pasta

Once your pasta is cooked, drain it well and add it directly into the sauce. Toss everything together gently until each piece is beautifully coated with that creamy pumpkin goodness.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Now comes the best part—serving! Plate up your creamy parmesan pumpkin pasta and finish with an extra sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese and a crack of black pepper on top. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta

Making this dish is a breeze, but a few expert tips can take your creamy pumpkin pasta to the next level!

Use fresh ingredients – Opt for fresh garlic and onions instead of pre-minced varieties. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor and aroma, giving your dish that homemade touch.
Adjust the spice level – If you love heat, don’t be shy with the red pepper flakes! Adjusting the amount can customize your dish to suit your taste preferences.
Save pasta water – Reserve a bit of the starchy pasta water before draining. Adding a splash to your sauce can help it cling better to the pasta and create a silkier texture.
Experiment with cheese – While parmesan is delicious, feel free to mix in other cheeses like pecorino romano or gouda for a different flavor profile. Each cheese brings its own unique twist!
Make it vegetarian-friendly – For a hearty vegetarian version, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to your sauce. These ingredients not only boost nutrition but also add delightful textures.

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta

This creamy parmesan pumpkin pasta is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings. Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

Fresh herbs – Sprinkle some chopped parsley or sage on top right before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Cracked black pepper – A dash of freshly cracked black pepper adds an aromatic kick and enhances all the flavors in the dish.

Side Dishes

Garlic Bread – A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that creamy pumpkin sauce. It’s quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser!
Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta while adding a refreshing crunch.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or zucchini roasted to perfection can complement the creamy pasta beautifully and add more fiber to your meal.
Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus – These green sides provide a nutritious boost and vibrant color that contrasts nicely with the rich orange of the pumpkin sauce.

Enjoy creating this fall-inspired comfort food that warms both hearts and bellies!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dish throughout the week. It’s easy to store and reheat, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Portion out the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
Ensure to remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.
Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best taste and quality.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe that might help you out!

Can I use a different type of pasta for Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni works wonderfully, feel free to swap it out with any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Just keep an eye on the cooking time based on the pasta shape you choose.

What can I serve with Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta?

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or turkey, Italian sausage, or even roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. You can also add a side salad for extra freshness!

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative like cashew cream. For cheese, try using a dairy-free parmesan or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.

How long does it take to make Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta?

This recipe is super quick! From start to finish, you can have it ready in just 20 minutes – perfect for those busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta as much as I do! Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a standout dish that captures the essence of fall. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it solo, I’m sure it will bring warmth and joy to your table. Happy cooking!

Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta

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Author: Amelia
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Category: Main
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian

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Description

If you’re in search of a delightful and comforting meal that embodies the spirit of fall, look no further than this Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta. This dish brings together the rich flavors of pumpkin and the savory goodness of parmesan cheese, creating a creamy sauce that envelops your favorite pasta. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this easy-to-make recipe, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With simple ingredients that you likely already have at home, this cozy dish is sure to impress anyone at your table. So grab your apron and get ready to savor every creamy bite!

Ingredients

Scale

8 ounces rigatoni pasta
3 tablespoons butter
1/2 yellow onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground sage
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente.
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Sauté diced onion for about 5-7 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir in pumpkin puree and sauté for another minute before adding heavy cream. Whisk until smooth.
Mix in salt, pepper, sage, nutmeg, and brown sugar; simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
Stir in parmesan cheese until melted. Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until well coated.
Serve warm with extra parmesan and cracked black pepper on top.