A cozy, flavorful pasta dish featuring pumpkin and aromatic herbs, all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup and rich taste.
Ingredients
Olive Oil
2tablespoonsOlive Oil(A quality extra virgin olive oil is used to sauté the aromatics, forming the foundational flavor base of the sauce.)
Yellow Onion
1mediumYellow Onion(Provides a sweet, savory depth that balances the earthiness of the pumpkin.)
Garlic
4clovesGarlic(Delivers that essential pungent, aromatic kick that complements almost any savory dish, especially pasta.)
Dried Sage
1teaspoonDried Sage(The quintessential autumn herb. Its pine-like, slightly peppery flavor is a classic and perfect pairing for pumpkin.)
Nutmeg
½teaspoonNutmeg(A pinch of nutmeg enhances the sweetness of the pumpkin and adds a warm, spicy note that makes the dish feel exceptionally cozy.)
Red Pepper Flakes
¼teaspoonRed Pepper Flakes(This adds a subtle background heat that cuts through the richness of the cream and pumpkin, brightening up the overall flavor profile.)
Vegetable Broth
4cupsVegetable Broth(This is the primary cooking liquid for the pasta. It infuses the noodles with flavor from the inside out as they cook directly in the pot.)
Pumpkin Purée
1 can (15 ounces)canPumpkin Purée(The star of the show. Ensure you use 100% pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, which is pre-sweetened and spiced.)
Uncooked Pasta
1 pound (16 ounces)poundUncooked Pasta(A short, sturdy pasta shape like rigatoni, penne, or fusilli is ideal as the ridges and tubes are perfect for catching the creamy sauce.)
Heavy Cream
½ cupcupHeavy Cream(This is the key to the luxurious, velvety texture. It transforms the sauce from a simple purée into a decadent, creamy dream.)
Parmesan Cheese
½ cupcupParmesan Cheese(Adds a salty, nutty, umami flavor that deepens the sauce and helps to thicken it slightly. Freshly grated melts far better than pre-shredded.)
Salt
1 teaspoonteaspoonSalt(Essential for bringing all the flavors together and properly seasoning the pasta as it cooks.)
Black Pepper
½ teaspoonteaspoonBlack Pepper(Adds a final touch of mild spice and complexity.)
Fresh Parsley
¼ cupcupFresh Parsley(Provides a pop of fresh, green color and a clean flavor that brightens up the finished dish.)
Instructions
Sauté the onion, garlic, sage, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes in olive oil until fragrant and onion is translucent.
Pour in broth, deglaze, then whisk in pumpkin purée until smooth. Add pasta, salt, and pepper, then simmer until pasta is al dente, stirring frequently.
Reduce heat, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until melted and sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Let rest for 2-3 minutes, then serve garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.
Notes
Stir frequently during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.