Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, the culinary landscape transforms, inviting a plethora of fall-inspired flavors into our kitchens. One delightful recipe that encapsulates the essence of autumn is Creamy Pumpkin Delight Pasta Sauce. This rich and velvety sauce not only celebrates the beloved pumpkin but also offers a unique twist to traditional pasta dishes, making it a perfect choice for cozy dinners or festive gatherings.

Embrace the flavors of fall with creamy pumpkin delight pasta sauce, a perfect blend of pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and aromatic spices. This rich and velvety sauce adds a unique twist to your favorite pasta dishes, making it an ideal choice for cozy evenings or festive gatherings. Dive into this delicious recipe that celebrates autumn's essence, and discover how to create a comforting meal that warms both the body and spirit, perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

1 cup pure pumpkin puree (canned or freshly made)

1 cup heavy cream

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)

Fresh sage leaves, for garnish (optional)

12 ounces pasta of your choice (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti are excellent options)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until it reaches al dente texture. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. When the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring until fragrant.

Create the Sauce Base: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the pumpkin puree to the skillet. Stir constantly to combine it with the sautéed onions and garlic. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add Cream: Gradually pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously to create a smooth mixture. Slightly increase the heat to bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, making sure it doesn’t boil.

Season It Up: Sprinkle in the ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, red pepper flakes, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well until it melts and is fully incorporated into the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Combine with Pasta: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to ensure that all the pasta noodles are evenly coated with the creamy pumpkin mixture. If the sauce appears too thick, add more of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you achieve the perfect saucy texture.

Serve: Plate the creamy pumpkin pasta generously, garnishing with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of fresh sage leaves if desired. Enjoy your delicious fall-inspired meal filled with warmth and flavor!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings