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Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo: A Comforting Fall Favorite

Few things are as satisfying as a creamy pasta dish, especially when it’s infused with the flavors of the season. Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo is a delicious twist on the traditional alfredo sauce, blending rich, velvety creaminess with the natural sweetness and earthiness of pumpkin. Perfectly balanced with aromatic sage, nutty parmesan, and a hint of warm nutmeg, this dish is a celebration of autumn’s best flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers comfort, sophistication, and plenty of flavor in every bite.

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Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo: A Comforting Fall Favorite

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🍂🎃 Indulge in the flavors of fall with Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo! 💛✨ Velvety pumpkin blends with parmesan and spices to create a rich, comforting pasta dish. 🍝 Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive treat, this recipe is pure autumn magic! 😋🍁

#CreamyPumpkinAlfredo 🎃 #FallFlavors 🍂 #PastaPerfection 🍝 #CozyComfortFood 🧡 #SimpleAndDelicious ✨ #AutumnEats 🍁 #PumpkinSeason 🌟 #DinnerGoals 🍽️ #ComfortInABowl 💛 #FoodieApproved 😍

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 250 g fettuccine, pappardelle, or your choice of pasta
  • 1/4 cup salted butter
  • 3 tablespoons fresh chopped sage
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup half-and-half cream
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned pumpkin works perfectly)
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta
  • Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. For fettuccine or pappardelle, this typically takes about 5 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
  • Brown the Butter and Sage
  • In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. As the butter melts, add the fresh chopped sage. Stir gently, allowing the sage to infuse its earthy aroma and flavor into the butter. Continue stirring until the butter begins to brown, which takes about 3 minutes. This step adds a nutty depth of flavor to the sauce.
  • Sauté the Garlic
  • Add the minced garlic to the browned butter and sage mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. The garlic will release its fragrance and turn a light golden brown, enhancing the sauce’s flavor.
  • Create the Pumpkin Alfredo Sauce
  • Spoon the pumpkin puree into the skillet, followed by the half-and-half cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness, while the cream provides a rich, velvety texture.
  • Incorporate Parmesan and Pasta Water
  • Gradually add the grated parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until it melts completely. Slowly pour in the reserved pasta water, starting with 1/4 cup. Adjust the amount of water to achieve your desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy but not overly thick, clinging beautifully to the pasta.
  • Toss the Pasta
  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently with tongs to coat each strand in the creamy pumpkin alfredo sauce. This step ensures every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
  • Garnish and Serve
  • Transfer the pasta to serving plates and top with additional grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors of fall.
  • Flavor Profile
  • The magic of this dish lies in its balance of flavors. The browned butter and sage create a savory, aromatic base, while the pumpkin puree adds a subtle sweetness and earthy depth. Parmesan cheese introduces a nutty, umami richness, perfectly complemented by the hint of warm nutmeg. The result is a creamy, flavorful sauce that enhances the pasta without overpowering it. Every bite offers a comforting warmth, making it an ideal dish for cool autumn evenings.

Notes

  • Choose the Right Pasta: While fettuccine and pappardelle are classic choices, you can experiment with other pasta types such as rigatoni or penne. The sauce clings well to shapes with ridges or grooves.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh sage and garlic are key to this recipe’s flavor. Their aromatic qualities shine through and elevate the dish.
  • Pumpkin Puree: Opt for pure canned pumpkin without added spices or sugar. This ensures the sauce has a natural, savory profile.
  • Parmesan Tips: Grating parmesan from a block is recommended. Pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
  • Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken.
  • Protein Options: For a heartier meal, serve the pasta with grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta. The added protein pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
  • Author: Rosa
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

Imagine a warm bowl of pasta coated in a luscious pumpkin sauce that is buttery, savory, and just slightly sweet. The aroma of browned butter and fresh sage fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere. Each forkful of tender fettuccine or pappardelle is a harmonious blend of creamy richness and subtle pumpkin undertones. Topped with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh parsley, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious.

This recipe’s appeal goes beyond its incredible flavor. It’s also quick and easy to make, coming together in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy evenings or impromptu gatherings, this dish proves that elegant meals don’t have to be complicated. Plus, it’s versatile—you can customize it with your favorite pasta, add protein for a heartier meal, or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.

Ingredients

To make this creamy pumpkin alfredo, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

  • 250 g fettuccine, pappardelle, or your choice of pasta
  • 1/4 cup salted butter
  • 3 tablespoons fresh chopped sage
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup half-and-half cream
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned pumpkin works perfectly)
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. For fettuccine or pappardelle, this typically takes about 5 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Brown the Butter and Sage

In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. As the butter melts, add the fresh chopped sage. Stir gently, allowing the sage to infuse its earthy aroma and flavor into the butter. Continue stirring until the butter begins to brown, which takes about 3 minutes. This step adds a nutty depth of flavor to the sauce.

Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the browned butter and sage mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. The garlic will release its fragrance and turn a light golden brown, enhancing the sauce’s flavor.

Create the Pumpkin Alfredo Sauce

Spoon the pumpkin puree into the skillet, followed by the half-and-half cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness, while the cream provides a rich, velvety texture.

Incorporate Parmesan and Pasta Water

Gradually add the grated parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until it melts completely. Slowly pour in the reserved pasta water, starting with 1/4 cup. Adjust the amount of water to achieve your desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy but not overly thick, clinging beautifully to the pasta.

Toss the Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently with tongs to coat each strand in the creamy pumpkin alfredo sauce. This step ensures every bite is flavorful and satisfying.

Garnish and Serve

Transfer the pasta to serving plates and top with additional grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors of fall.

Flavor Profile

The magic of this dish lies in its balance of flavors. The browned butter and sage create a savory, aromatic base, while the pumpkin puree adds a subtle sweetness and earthy depth. Parmesan cheese introduces a nutty, umami richness, perfectly complemented by the hint of warm nutmeg. The result is a creamy, flavorful sauce that enhances the pasta without overpowering it. Every bite offers a comforting warmth, making it an ideal dish for cool autumn evenings.

Tips and Tricks

  • Choose the Right Pasta: While fettuccine and pappardelle are classic choices, you can experiment with other pasta types such as rigatoni or penne. The sauce clings well to shapes with ridges or grooves.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh sage and garlic are key to this recipe’s flavor. Their aromatic qualities shine through and elevate the dish.
  • Pumpkin Puree: Opt for pure canned pumpkin without added spices or sugar. This ensures the sauce has a natural, savory profile.
  • Parmesan Tips: Grating parmesan from a block is recommended. Pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
  • Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken.
  • Protein Options: For a heartier meal, serve the pasta with grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta. The added protein pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy version of this dish. The heat contrasts nicely with the creamy pumpkin sauce.
  • Vegetarian Delight: Toss in roasted vegetables like butternut squash, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
  • Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with vegan margarine, the cream with coconut milk, and the parmesan with a plant-based cheese alternative. The result is still rich and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with complementary sides. Serve it with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sauce. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread makes a perfect accompaniment for soaking up any leftover sauce. For a cozy fall dinner, pair the pasta with a glass of dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Heat gently over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo is the epitome of comfort food, combining seasonal ingredients with classic flavors. Its quick preparation and customizable nature make it a go-to dish for any occasion. The rich, creamy sauce and tender pasta create a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees impressive results.

With its warm flavors and inviting aroma, Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo is a dish you’ll want to make all season long. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of fall’s finest flavors. Gather your loved ones, serve up a steaming bowl, and savor the simple joy of good food.

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