How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Your Family Will Love

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, I find myself craving all things cozy and comforting. One dish that never fails to warm my heart is creamy pumpkin pasta. This delightful recipe is not only a celebration of fall flavors but also an easy pasta recipe that your family will adore. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time, making it perfect for those busy weeknights. Let’s dive into this creamy, dreamy dish that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for 30-minute meals.
• Rich, creamy flavors that bring the essence of fall to your table.
• Perfect for quick family dinners that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile enough to pair with your favorite proteins or veggies.
• Great way to use up that leftover pumpkin puree!

Ingredients

To make this creamy pumpkin pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound rigatoni pasta
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups pumpkin puree
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your creamy pumpkin pasta:

1. Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic in butter over medium heat until soft and fragrant.
3. Whisk in the pumpkin puree, chicken broth, heavy cream, sour cream, and seasonings. Stir until well combined.
4. Let the pumpkin sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Stir the cooked pasta into the pumpkin sauce, simmering for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta.
6. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your creamy pumpkin pasta turns out perfectly:

• For a little extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth.
• Feel free to add cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier meal.
• Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking!
• This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread.

How to Serve

When it comes to serving this creamy pumpkin pasta, presentation is key! Here are some ideas:

• Serve in warm bowls and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley for a pop of color.
• Pair with a glass of white wine for a lovely dinner experience.
• For a festive touch, consider adding roasted pumpkin seeds on top for crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy pumpkin pasta is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• If you want to make it ahead of time, prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine them just before serving.

As the weather cools down, I can’t think of a better way to enjoy the flavors of fall than with this creamy pumpkin pasta. It’s a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table, making it one of my favorite fall recipes pasta. Whether you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas or simply want to indulge in a creamy garlic pasta, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! And if you’re in the mood for more delicious pasta dishes, check out my High Protein Beef Pasta or Beef Stroganoff for more inspiration!