Creamy Pumpkin Pasta – Easy & Delicious Fall Recipe

This Creamy Pumpkin Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for fall or any cozy night in. Silky pumpkin sauce coats tender pasta, enriched with Parmesan and aromatic spices. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or a special autumn meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Silky, creamy pumpkin sauce with warm fall spices.
• Quick and easy, ready in under 30 minutes.
• Perfect for vegetarians and adaptable to vegan diets.
• Pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or garlic bread.
• A comforting, cozy, and crowd-pleasing dinner.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for vegan option
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan Parmesan)
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in pumpkin puree, heavy cream, Parmesan, nutmeg, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until sauce is creamy and heated through.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated with the pumpkin sauce.
5. Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegan version, use coconut milk and vegan Parmesan.
• Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted pumpkin seeds for extra texture.
• Sprinkle chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Leftovers can be reheated gently with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or milk.
• Freeze: Not recommended for freezing cooked pasta as texture may change. You can freeze pumpkin sauce separately for up to 2 months.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Pair with garlic bread or focaccia.
• Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds or extra Parmesan.
• Drizzle with a little truffle oil for a gourmet touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pumpkin?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly for this recipe.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely, use gluten-free pasta.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great additions.

How do I store leftovers?

Store pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge up to 3 days.

Ready to Try It?

This Creamy Pumpkin Pasta is the ultimate cozy, comforting dinner. Velvety pumpkin sauce, Parmesan, and warm spices make it a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for fall or any night. Pin it, save it, or make it tonight — it’s creamy, flavorful, and ready to enjoy.

You Might Also Like

• Pumpkin Pie Sugar Cookies – Sweet, soft cookies for fall.
• No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls – Creamy, bite-sized treats.
• Rotel Mexican Rice – Quick and flavorful side dish.
• One-Pot Vegetable Soup – Healthy, comforting, and easy to make.

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