Creamy Pumpkin Pasta

Name: Creamy Pumpkin Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g pasta of your choice; Salt for boiling water; 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried sage; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Seasonal Wonders

I absolutely love this Creamy Pumpkin Pasta! The rich, seasonal flavor of pumpkin combined with the cream creates a luxurious sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Each bite transports me to cozy autumn evenings. With its comforting nature, this dish not only satisfies my cravings but also impresses anyone who tries it. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, so it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll want it in your recipe rotation all year round!

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:39:36.502Z

As I was experimenting with fall flavors, I stumbled upon the idea of incorporating pumpkin into pasta. The combination was a delightful surprise! I used a blend of garlic, onion, and sage which perfectly complements the pumpkin, making it a savory yet slightly sweet dish. After a few tweaks, I found the perfect balance.

One of my favorite tips is to roast the pumpkin beforehand; it enhances the natural sweetness and adds depth to the sauce. This creamy pumpkin pasta quickly became a staple in my home, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A unique flavor profile that celebrates autumn
Creamy texture that envelops every noodle
Quick to prepare – ideal for busy weeknights

The Role of Pumpkin in the Sauce

Pumpkin puree is the star of this dish, offering a natural sweetness and a velvety texture that complements the cream wonderfully. If you're using fresh pumpkin, make sure to roast it until it's soft and caramelized; this enhances its flavor profile dramatically. Canned pumpkin is a perfect time-saver, but always check for pure pumpkin and avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that can alter the dish's intended flavor.

The creaminess of the heavy cream is essential, but for a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut cream. Just keep in mind that coconut cream might add a subtle coconut flavor that can be delightful but may change the dish's overall profile.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Sauce

When sautéing the onions, aim for a translucent appearance; if they start to brown, lower the heat slightly to prevent a burnt taste from overpowering the sauce. Adding the garlic too early can also lead to bitterness—one minute in the pan is enough for it to release its fragrance without burning.

If the sauce is too thick once you've combined the pumpkin and cream, use the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Remember to add it gradually; too much at once can lead to a watery sauce, diluting the rich flavors. The sauce should coat the pasta beautifully, with a glossy finish rather than pool beneath it.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your Creamy Pumpkin Pasta, consider stirring in sautéed spinach or kale for added nutrition and color. Toasted pumpkin seeds or walnuts can also provide a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creaminess. Don’t be afraid to sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or sage for a pop of freshness and flavor—a simple addition that can make a big difference!

This pasta dish pairs beautifully with a side salad topped with tangy vinaigrette or crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, but be aware that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

400g pasta of your choice
Salt for boiling water

For the Sauce

1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
1 cup heavy cream
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried sage
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Feel free to add additional herbs or spices to personalize the sauce!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and sage, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the pumpkin puree and heavy cream, mixing well. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Season with salt and pepper.

Toss the Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Allow everything to heat through for about 2 minutes.

Serve

Plate the pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy!

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating cooked bacon or sage leaves as a garnish. You can also experiment with adding nutmeg or red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

Ingredient Substitutions

While the classic version of this recipe calls for heavy cream, you might experiment with other creamy alternatives like cashew cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter take. Each of these options will lend a different flavor and texture to the sauce, so choose based on your dietary preferences.

If you’re aiming for a vegan variation, replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. This not only offers creaminess but also a hint of sweetness, which pairs well with the pumpkin. Just make sure to adjust your seasoning to balance the flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you plan to make this Creamy Pumpkin Pasta ahead of time, it's best to prepare the sauce separately and refrigerate it. This will preserve the texture of the pasta, as it can become mushy if mixed and stored together. Simply reheat the sauce while cooking fresh pasta for a quick meal.

To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool before placing it in an airtight container. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days, but if you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the sauce and cooking fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve. The sauce can be thawed in the refrigerator overnight or heated gently on the stovetop.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just roast the fresh pumpkin until tender and blend it into a puree.

→ Is it possible to make this vegan?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use your favorite pasta, ensuring it’s egg-free.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream.

→ Can I add protein to the dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even chickpeas would be great additions.