Name: Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces rigatoni pasta; 3 tablespoons butter; 1/2 yellow onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (or coconut cream for a vegan option); 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; pinch of red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon ground sage; 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon brown sugar

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If you’re looking for a cozy dish that wraps you up in warmth and comfort, then this Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta is just the ticket! This delightful recipe is not only super easy to whip up, but it also brings all the flavors of fall right to your table. Imagine twirling your fork through creamy pumpkin sauce, enveloping each piece of rigatoni in rich goodness.

What makes this pasta so special? It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying. Plus, it’s great for family gatherings or even a cozy dinner for two. You’ll find that everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for those rushed evenings.
Family-Friendly: The creamy pumpkin sauce is a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring a happy mealtime.
Make Ahead: Cook the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat—convenience at its best!
Deliciously Comforting: With its blend of creamy flavors and seasonal spices, this pasta will warm your heart.
Versatile Pairings: Serve it with grilled chicken or Italian sausage for an extra protein boost.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta, you’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pasta

8 ounces rigatoni pasta (or your favorite short cut pasta)
3 tablespoons butter
1/2 yellow onion (diced)
pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
3 garlic cloves (minced)

For the Sauce

1 cup pumpkin puree
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground sage
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1/2 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated plus extra for serving)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations:

Add some greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale during the last minute of cooking for a pop of color and nutrition.
Make it vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a dairy-free option.
Change the pasta shape: Try using penne or fusilli instead of rigatoni to mix things up!
Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper if you love a little heat.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of water to boil. Add in your rigatoni and cook according to package directions until al dente. This ensures the pasta holds its shape when combined with the creamy sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion along with red pepper flakes (if using). Cook them until they’re soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial because sautéing brings out the natural sweetness of onions—yum!

Step 3: Create the Pumpkin Sauce

Next, stir in minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Then add in pumpkin puree, stirring well to combine with the onions. Letting it cook together enhances those lovely flavors. Once mixed, pour in heavy whipping cream and whisk everything together until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, sage, nutmeg, and brown sugar—this combo adds depth and warmth!

Step 4: Combine & Serve

Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes before mixing in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Finally, toss the cooked rigatoni into the sauce until every piece is coated beautifully. Serve immediately while garnishing with extra parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper.

Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta

Creating a delicious creamy pumpkin pasta is a breeze with a few handy tips to enhance your cooking experience!

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-packaged will elevate the overall flavor and creaminess of your sauce, giving it that authentic touch.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes. This adds a delightful kick that balances the sweetness of the pumpkin.
Experiment with Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can bring an aromatic quality to the dish. They complement the flavors beautifully and add freshness.
Don’t Skimp on Simmering: Allowing the sauce to simmer for a few extra minutes helps deepen the flavors. This step is crucial in letting all the ingredients meld together harmoniously.
Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining your pasta, save a cup of pasta water. If your sauce is too thick, adding a splash can help achieve that perfect creamy consistency.

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta

Serving up this creamy parmesan pumpkin pasta can be as fun as making it! With just a little creativity, you can turn this comforting dish into a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Garnishes

Fresh Parsley or Basil: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or basil not only adds color but also a fresh burst of flavor that complements the richness of the pasta.
Toasted Pumpkin Seeds: For an added crunch and nutty flavor, sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds on top. They enhance both texture and presentation.

Side Dishes

Garlic Bread: Sliced baguette brushed with garlic butter and toasted until golden brown makes for a perfect accompaniment to soak up any leftover sauce.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta, balancing out the meal wonderfully.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or zucchini tossed in olive oil and roasted until caramelized add great flavor and nutrition alongside your pasta.
Creamy Polenta: For something truly indulgent, serve this dish with creamy polenta. The smooth texture pairs beautifully with the pumpkin sauce and brings warmth to your table.

Enjoy crafting this delightful meal that perfectly embodies fall flavors while impressing family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Let the pasta cool completely if you plan to freeze it.
Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, removing as much air as possible.
Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Heat until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions regarding this recipe!

Can I make Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version while still keeping that creamy texture.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta?

Consider adding sautéed spinach or kale for added nutrition and flavor. You can also sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds on top for crunch!

Is Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge and can be frozen, making it ideal for meal prep.

What can I serve with Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta?

This pasta pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, Italian sausage, or even a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that captures all the warmth of fall in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night in or sharing it with loved ones, it’s sure to bring smiles around the table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor each creamy mouthful!

Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Dinner
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian

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Description

Indulge in the flavors of fall with this Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta. This cozy dish combines the rich taste of pumpkin puree with a luscious creamy sauce and perfectly cooked rigatoni, making it a delightful option for busy weeknights or intimate gatherings. In just 20 minutes, you can twirl your fork through this comforting meal that’s bound to please both kids and adults. Enhanced with seasonal spices and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, each bite offers warmth and satisfaction. Easily customizable to suit your taste, this pasta is not only simple to prepare but also perfect for meal prep. Serve it with grilled chicken or a side salad for a complete dining experience.

Ingredients

Scale

8 ounces rigatoni pasta
3 tablespoons butter
1/2 yellow onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream (or coconut cream for a vegan option)
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground sage
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon brown sugar

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Instructions

Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the diced onion with optional red pepper flakes until soft.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the pumpkin puree and mix well, allowing flavors to meld. Then pour in the heavy cream and whisk until smooth.
Season with salt, black pepper, sage, nutmeg, and brown sugar. Let simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy.
Toss the cooked rigatoni into the sauce until evenly coated before serving.