Pumpkin Feta Pasta

Pumpkin Feta Pasta is a rich, creamy, and savory dish that combines the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the tangy creaminess of feta cheese. It’s a cozy, comforting meal that’s perfect for the fall season and beyond. The blend of flavors creates a savory-sweet harmony that makes every bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s super easy to make and bursting with flavor! The creamy pumpkin sauce is made with just a few ingredients and pairs beautifully with the feta cheese. The dish is hearty enough to satisfy your cravings but light enough to be enjoyed on a weeknight. It’s a perfect blend of fall flavors that’s creamy, tangy, and full of depth.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)

• Salt, for pasta water

For the Sauce:

• 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin puree (or homemade pumpkin puree)

• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (plus extra for garnish)

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

• 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional, for thinning sauce)

For Garnish (optional):

• Fresh parsley or basil

• Crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat

• Extra crumbled feta

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.

2. Make the Sauce:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat.

2. Add the pumpkin puree, garlic powder, onion powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

3. Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. If the sauce gets too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water or chicken broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.

4. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it in the creamy pumpkin sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more pasta water to help coat the pasta evenly.

4. Serve:

1. Serve the pasta in bowls, topped with extra crumbled feta and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil.

2. Optionally, sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat and extra flavor.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. Prep time is about 5 minutes, cook time is about 15 minutes, so total time is around 20 minutes.

Variations

I like to:

• Add sautéed spinach or kale to the pasta for added greens.

• Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for some crunch.

• Make it spicy by adding chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha on top.

• Use goat cheese instead of feta for a tangier flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little pasta water or cream to loosen the sauce as needed.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, just make sure to cook and blend it until smooth before adding it to the sauce.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and substitute the feta with a dairy-free feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just cook the pasta and combine when ready to serve.

Can I freeze this dish?
You can freeze the sauce (without the pasta) for up to 1 month. When ready to use, thaw and reheat, then toss with freshly cooked pasta.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Feta Pasta is a cozy, comforting, and creamy dish that’s perfect for fall or any time you’re craving something rich and flavorful. With the tangy feta cheese and the creamy, spiced pumpkin sauce, this pasta is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. It’s easy to make, full of autumn flavors, and sure to please everyone at the table!

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