Easy Pumpkin Pasta Recipe – Creamy, Cozy, and Perfect for Fall

There’s something magical about fall — the crisp air, colorful leaves, and of course, all things pumpkin! This easy pumpkin pasta recipe brings that cozy autumn feeling straight to your table. It’s creamy, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make with pantry staples. I first tried this dish on a chilly evening after a trip to the local farmer’s market — one bite and it became a seasonal favorite in my kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this comforting pasta will definitely impress.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious homemade pumpkin pasta (serves 4):

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta of your choice (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work great)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• small onion, finely chopped

• cup (240 ml) pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)

• cup (240 ml) heavy cream

• ½ cup (120 ml) milk

• ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

• ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your creamy pumpkin pasta:

1. Cook the pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.

2. Sauté the aromatics:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

3. Make the pumpkin sauce:
   Add the pumpkin purée, heavy cream, and milk. Stir until smooth and creamy. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

4. Season the sauce:
   Add grated Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly (2–3 minutes).

5. Combine with pasta:
   Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

6. Garnish and serve:
   Sprinkle with chopped parsley and a little extra Parmesan before serving. Enjoy warm!

Tips & Variations

• Make it dairy-free: Use coconut milk or oat cream instead of heavy cream, and a dairy-free cheese alternative.

• Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or crispy chickpeas for extra flavor and texture.

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika for a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin’s sweetness.

Storing & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I make this pumpkin pasta ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Simply reheat and mix with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

2. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely. Roast fresh pumpkin until soft, then blend it into a smooth purée before adding it to the sauce.

3. What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne or rigatoni holds the creamy sauce beautifully, but spaghetti or fettuccine also work great.

4. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use your favorite gluten-free pasta brand for an easy gluten-free pumpkin pasta version.

5. How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes or add more Parmesan cheese until it reaches your desired consistency.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately)

• Calories: 480 kcal

• Protein: 14 g

• Carbohydrates: 55 g

• Fat: 22 g

This easy pumpkin pasta recipe is the perfect way to celebrate the cozy flavors of fall with minimal effort. Creamy, comforting, and packed with seasonal goodness, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Try it for your next family dinner or cozy weekend meal — and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below!

If you loved this recipe, check out my other fall-inspired comfort dishes like creamy butternut pasta and roasted veggie lasagna. Happy cooking!