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Easy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe

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3.9 from 9 reviews

This Easy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce recipe combines creamy pumpkin puree with Parmesan and garlic butter for a comforting, flavorful fall-inspired dish. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that serves six.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 pound pasta

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 1/4 cups heavy cream (at room temperature)
  • 1 1/4 cups grated Parmesan
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree*
  • Fresh sage (chopped, optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Sauce Base: In a medium-sized skillet over medium-low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
  3. Simmer Heavy Cream: Reduce the heat to low, then pour in the heavy cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer while whisking occasionally. Allow it to thicken slightly, which should take a few minutes.
  4. Add Seasonings and Cheese: Stir in the kosher salt, ground black pepper, and grated Parmesan. Whisk gently until the Parmesan melts completely into the cream, creating a smooth sauce.
  5. Incorporate Pumpkin Puree: Add the pumpkin puree to the skillet and stir thoroughly until it is fully combined with the creamy Parmesan mixture.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet and toss well to coat every strand evenly with the pumpkin sauce.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the pasta with chopped fresh sage if desired. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy a cozy, flavorful fall meal.

Notes

  • Use canned pure pumpkin or homemade pumpkin puree for best results.
  • Fresh sage adds a lovely, earthy note but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
  • To prevent sauce separation, ensure the cream and butter are at room temperature before mixing.
  • Cook pasta just until al dente so it holds up well when tossed with the sauce.