Get ready to fall in love with this creamy pumpkin pasta recipe—a perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and warmth for the cooler seasons. Featuring a velvety pumpkin sauce infused with garlic and fresh sage, this dish delivers a delightful mix of slightly sweet and savory flavors. Paired with zesty Italian sausage, fresh kale, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this pasta is sure to become a family favorite.
Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or simply craving some autumn-inspired comfort food, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s highly versatile—you can customize it to suit dietary preferences or add your favorite ingredients for a personal touch.
Let’s dive into the recipe details and learn how to create this irresistible creamy pumpkin pasta!
Ingredients for Creamy Pumpkin Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Mezze rigatoni works beautifully here, but feel free to use your preferred pasta shape. From penne to fettuccine, any type will soak up the creamy sauce.
- Pumpkin Purée: A full can of pumpkin purée gives the sauce its signature velvety texture and a hint of earthy sweetness. Be sure to use plain pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Italian Sausage: Choose mild or spicy sausage—pork, chicken, or plant-based options all work well. Its savory flavor balances the sweetness of the pumpkin sauce perfectly.
- Kale: Fresh chopped kale adds vibrant color and texture. Traditional curly or lacinato kale are great options, or substitute with baby spinach if desired.
- Shallot & Garlic: These aromatic staples enhance the depth of flavor in the sauce.
- Fresh Sage: A key ingredient for an earthy, woodsy flavor that complements the pumpkin. Fry some extra sage leaves for a crispy garnish!
- Seasonings: Crushed red pepper flakes, fine sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper elevate the overall flavor. Remember to generously salt your pasta water too.
- White Wine: A splash of dry white wine adds acidity and helps deglaze the pan. Alternatively, use chicken or vegetable stock.
- Heavy Cream: This creates the luscious, creamy texture that makes the sauce irresistible.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that ties everything together.
How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Pasta
- Cook the Pasta: Boil your pasta according to the package instructions in salted water. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté shallots, garlic, and sage until fragrant.
- Cook Sausage: Add Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine (or stock) to scrape up any browned bits, then stir in the pumpkin purée.
- Simmer the Sauce: Add cream and seasonings, stirring until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Let it simmer gently.
- Combine Everything: Toss the cooked pasta and kale into the sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta and top with Parmesan cheese and crispy sage leaves.
Recipe Variations
Make this recipe your own with these variations:
- Add Vegetables: Include roasted or sautéed veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for extra nutrition.
- Try Different Proteins: Swap Italian sausage for chicken, shrimp, or a plant-based alternative.
- Experiment with Herbs: Rosemary or basil can replace or complement sage.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a GF-friendly version.
- Make it Vegetarian: Skip the sausage or use a plant-based version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy pumpkin pasta is the epitome of fall comfort food. The combination of savory sausage, earthy pumpkin, and creamy sauce will warm you up from the inside out. Its versatility makes it perfect for all occasions, whether it’s a family dinner or an indulgent treat for yourself.
So grab a can of pumpkin purée and your favorite pasta—this recipe is about to become your new go-to for cozy autumn nights.
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