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As the leaves begin to turn and the air fills with the crisp scent of fall, the culinary world embraces the vibrant flavors of the season. Among them, pumpkin stands out not only for its striking orange hue but also for its remarkable versatility in the kitchen. From pies to soups, and now to pastas, pumpkin can add a comforting touch to countless dishes. This article introduces you to a delightful recipe for Harvest Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce, a dish that captures the essence of autumn and transforms your weeknight dinners or festive gatherings into something special.

Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce

As autumn arrives, warm up your weeknight dinners with a delightful Harvest Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce. This cozy recipe brings together the sweet richness of pumpkin, creamy textures, and aromatic spices like sage and nutmeg, creating a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare, this sauce is versatile enough for both casual meals and festive gatherings. Discover how to make this autumn favorite and transform your table with seasonal flavors!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)

1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 teaspoon dried sage

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat

12 ounces pasta of choice (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)

Fresh parsley or sage for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

    Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

      Create the Sauce Base: Reduce the heat to low and add the pumpkin puree to the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream, dried sage, ground nutmeg, and cayenne pepper (if using). Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through and well combined.

        Add Cheese: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy pumpkin sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

            Serve: Plate the creamy pumpkin pasta, and garnish with fresh parsley or sage and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delightful autumn-inspired dish!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | Serves 4