Print

Pumpkin Pasta Sauce

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Pumpkin pasta sauce is a rich, creamy, and savory sauce made with pumpkin puree, garlic, herbs, and a touch of cream. It’s a cozy and elegant twist on classic pasta dishes, perfect for fall and easy enough for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp dried sage or thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 12 oz pasta of choice (such as fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni)
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the pumpkin puree, broth, dried sage or thyme, and nutmeg. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Cook for another 3–5 minutes until the sauce is creamy and heated through. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
  7. Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated with the sauce.
  8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Use plant-based cream and cheese for a vegan version.Add mushrooms, spinach, or kale for extra texture and nutrients.Use coconut milk for a sweet and creamy variation.Freeze the sauce without pasta for longer storage.Don’t use pumpkin pie filling—it’s sweetened and spiced.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/pumpkin-pasta-sauce/