This Easy Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! With rich pumpkin, cheesy Parmesan, and a touch of cream, it’s a comforting meal perfect for any night.
You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together—just mix, stir, and enjoy! I often top it with extra cheese because, let’s be honest, who can resist more cheese? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using rigatoni because it holds the sauce well, but any pasta shape works! If you’re gluten-free, use your favorite gluten-free pasta instead.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin is convenient and consistent in flavor. If you’re up for it, fresh pumpkin is a great alternative—just roast and blend it until smooth.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half works just as well. You could even use milk, but the sauce may not be as rich. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, look for dairy-free cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
How Do I Get My Sauce Extra Creamy Without Curdling?
To keep your sauce creamy, pay close attention to the heat level. Always cook on low to medium heat once you add the cream to avoid curdling. Stir gently as you add the cheese, which helps it melt smoothly.
- Start with low heat after adding heavy cream; don’t let it boil.
- Grate the cheese finely for easier melting and a smoother sauce.
- If the sauce thickens too much, gradually add reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
These steps will ensure your pumpkin sauce remains velvety and delicious! Enjoy your cooking adventure! 🍝
Easy Creamy Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (rigatoni or your favorite shape)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Flavor:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated preferred)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh sage leaves or thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Additional Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and about 20 minutes cooking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but fancy enough for company!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining it! This will help make your sauce creamy later.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
While your pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in a splash of olive oil and add the unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted, toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onion is soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until you can smell its wonderful aroma.
3. Create the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the star of the dish! Stir in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream (or half-and-half), and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix everything together and allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens!
4. Add the Cheese:
Reduce the heat and gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep mixing until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste your sauce and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. It should be rich and comforting!
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Keep tossing until everything is mixed beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your creamy pumpkin pasta to plates or bowls. Sprinkle with more grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh sage leaves or thyme if you’re feeling fancy. This is a cozy and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Now dig in and enjoy this delightful creamy pumpkin pasta! 🍝✨
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni is a great choice for its shape and ability to hold sauce, feel free to use any pasta you like, such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free options.
Can I Make This Pasta Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. You can also use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even cooked sausage can be added for extra protein. Just mix in your protein of choice when you combine the pasta and sauce!
