Creamy Pumpkin Pasta

Name: Creamy Pumpkin Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne); 1 cup pumpkin purée; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried sage; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Classics

I absolutely love making creamy pumpkin pasta, especially in the fall when pumpkins are in season. The combination of creamy sauce and pumpkin purée creates a rich and comforting dish that warms my heart. I can’t get enough of the cozy flavors that this dish brings to the table. Plus, it's quick to prepare and absolutely satisfying. Whether I’m hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this pasta never fails to impress and is always a hit with everyone!

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:23:36.003Z

When I first decided to make creamy pumpkin pasta, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet flavorful it turned out. I love experimenting with seasonal ingredients, and pumpkin is a staple for fall dishes. I used a mixture of garlic, onion, and spices to enhance the natural sweetness of the pumpkin, which created a wonderful depth of flavor in the sauce.

Another tip I found helpful was adding a splash of pasta water to the sauce. This little hack ensures that the sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, making every bite creamy and decadent. My family couldn’t get enough and now it's a regular feature on our dinner table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that's incredibly satisfying
The bright flavors of fresh herbs elevate the dish
Perfect for a cozy dinner gathering or a quick weeknight meal

Creating the Perfect Creamy Sauce

The beauty of this creamy pumpkin sauce lies in its simplicity. By using heavy cream, you create a luscious texture that blankets the pasta beautifully. However, it's important to keep the heat on medium when simmering the sauce. This prevents the cream from curdling and allows the flavors to meld without boiling over. Stir occasionally to maintain an even consistency; you want it to smell aromatic and look smooth before adding the pasta.

Incorporating pumpkin purée not only brings a savory sweetness to the dish but also adds a vibrant color that makes your plate visually appealing. You can use canned pumpkin for convenience, but if you're adventurous, homemade purée can elevate the dish even further. Just roast your pumpkin until soft, blend it until smooth, and you'll achieve that fresh flavor that store-bought options sometimes lack.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Herbs

Though dried sage is a fantastic addition to this recipe, you can elevate the flavor by using fresh herbs if available. Fresh sage has a brighter taste and can enhance the overall profile of the dish. If you choose fresh sage, add it toward the end of the simmering process to preserve its vibrant flavor and aroma. Remember to chop it finely to ensure it disperses evenly throughout the sauce.

Another way to boost the flavors is to garnish the dish with fresh parsley. Not only does it add a pop of color, but its fresh, grassy notes can cut through the creaminess of the sauce, creating a well-rounded bite that keeps you coming back for more. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving can also brighten the flavors and bring balance to the richness of the sauce.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking!

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
1 cup pumpkin purée
1 cup heavy cream
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy pumpkin pasta!

Cook the Pasta

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

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Prepare the Sauce

Add the pumpkin purée, heavy cream, sage, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until desired creaminess is achieved.

Serve

Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan. Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious creamy pumpkin pasta!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary. You can also add cooked chicken or spinach for extra nutrition!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce may thicken as it sits, so when reheating, add a splash of broth or more heavy cream to loosen it up. Heat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching. This method ensures your pasta remains creamy and delicious without losing those cozy flavors.

For longer storage, consider freezing the sauce separately from the pasta. The pasta may become mushy when frozen, but the sauce can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove for a quick meal.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta in this recipe! While fettuccine and penne work beautifully, you can also substitute with whole-grain or gluten-free pasta for alternative dietary needs. Just remember to cook the pasta according to package instructions to achieve the perfect al dente texture that balances with the creamy sauce.

Additionally, if you're looking to elevate the nutritional profile, consider adding sautéed spinach or kale into the mix right before combining the pasta and sauce. These greens not only add color but introduce an earthy flavor and additional vitamins, making the dish even more satisfying without overwhelming the pumpkin essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can roast and purée fresh pumpkin, but make sure it's smooth and cooked through before adding to the sauce.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative and skip the Parmesan cheese.

→ How do I ensure my sauce is creamy?

Make sure to add pasta water gradually to reach the desired creaminess, and stir well to combine everything.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine and penne work particularly well, but feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer!