How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Perfect for Fall

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a cozy meal to warm your heart and home. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite creamy pumpkin pasta recipe that’s perfect for fall! This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it one of my go-to easy pasta recipes for quick family dinners. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, creamy flavors that scream fall.
• Perfect for 30-minute meals on busy weeknights.
• Uses pumpkin puree, making it a great way to Cook With Pumpkin.
• Kid-friendly and sure to please picky eaters.
• Can be easily customized with your favorite proteins or veggies.

Ingredients

To make this delightful creamy pumpkin pasta, you will 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 dive into the steps to create this creamy delight:

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.
6. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips 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 want to make this dish even heartier, feel free to add cooked chicken or sausage.
• Don’t have rigatoni? Any pasta shape will work, but I love how the ridges of rigatoni hold onto the creamy sauce.
• Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed; every pumpkin puree can vary in flavor.
• This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover pumpkin puree from your fall baking!

How to Serve

This creamy pumpkin pasta is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Serve it with a side salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a glass of white wine for a lovely evening treat. If you’re looking for more ideas, check out my Beef Stroganoff or Beef with Broccoli for additional delicious options!

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy pumpkin pasta is great for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. It also freezes well, so you can enjoy this comforting dish even on the busiest nights. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking! This creamy pumpkin pasta is sure to become a staple in your home, perfect for those chilly fall evenings. Enjoy every bite and share the love with your family!