Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce (Printable version)
Smooth sauce blending pumpkin, cream, and fragrant spices for a comforting pasta experience.
# Ingredient List:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 cup (8.5 oz) pumpkin puree (homemade or canned)
02 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
03 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
→ Dairy
04 - 1 cup (8 fl oz) heavy cream
05 - 1/4 cup (0.88 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
→ Pantry
07 - 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
08 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
09 - 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
10 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
11 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
12 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Optional Garnish
13 - Fresh parsley, chopped
14 - Extra Parmesan cheese
# How to Make It:
01 - Prepare the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
02 - Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
03 - Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, approximately 1 minute.
04 - Add pumpkin puree, dried sage, dried thyme, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and cook for 2 minutes to meld flavors.
05 - Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
06 - Stir grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until it fully melts and becomes smooth.
07 - Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss gently to coat. Use reserved pasta water sparingly to achieve desired sauce consistency.
08 - Dish out immediately and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if preferred.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- This sauce brings pumpkin to a whole new level, turning simple pasta into a comforting feast.
- It’s quick to make, perfect for busy evenings when you want something special without the fuss.
02 -
- Simplicity is key: don't overcook the sauce; keep it gently simmering to preserve the pumpkin's bright flavor.
- Using reserved pasta water is a game changer for the sauce texture—it helps it cling beautifully to the noodles.
03 -
- Toast your spices lightly in the skillet before adding wet ingredients to deepen their flavor.
- Using full-fat cream is what creates that classic silky sauce everyone raves about.