Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta

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Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that you can easily recreate at home. This dish strikes a perfect balance between creamy and savory, making it a comforting option for any day of the week. The combination of pumpkin and sage brings warmth and earthiness, making it particularly appealing during the fall season, but that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying this delicious recipe year-round. It’s also a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables into your diet, especially for those who might not be fans of pumpkin otherwise.

With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s an excellent dish for gatherings, family dinners, or cozy nights in. Plus, it’s easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough to serve to guests. The use of fresh ingredients, like sage and chives, elevates the dish and makes it taste homemade.

How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta

Follow along with this straightforward recipe for a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

8 ounces Pasta (Your favorite type)
2 tablespoons Butter
2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
1 medium Shallot (Chopped)
1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Unflavored)
4 ounces Cream Cheese (Or Goat Cheese)
1 tablespoon Fresh Sage (Chopped)
2 tablespoons Chives (Chopped)
1/4 cup Toasted Pepitas
Kosher Salt, to taste
Fresh Pepper, to taste

Directions:

Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package until it reaches al dente. Be sure to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander. Set the drained pasta aside for now.
Sauté the Aromatics: Using the same pot, melt the two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and chopped shallots. Sauté the mixture for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and the shallots become soft and translucent.
Add the Pumpkin: Now it’s time to add the star of the dish—the pumpkin! Stir in the pumpkin puree and let it cook for about 5 minutes. Stir it occasionally so it heats evenly, which will deepen the flavor.
Make It Creamy: Lower the heat a bit and add the cream cheese (or goat cheese) into the pumpkin mixture. Stir it continuously until the cheese melts completely and forms a smooth sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can gradually add in the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creamy consistency.
Season the Sauce: Next, it’s time to bring in flavor. Stir in the chopped fresh sage, and season the sauce with kosher salt and fresh pepper to taste. Adjust it to your liking for the perfect balance.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Take the drained pasta and add it to the creamy pumpkin sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. If needed, you can adjust the consistency of the sauce with more reserved pasta water.
Garnish and Serve: To make your dish visually appealing, you can top it with toasted pepitas and freshly chopped chives. Toss everything lightly before serving warm, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta

Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta is best served warm. You can adorn individual plates with a sprinkle of toasted pepitas and a few garnishes of chopped chives. This will not only enhance the dish visually but also add a nice crunch and additional flavor.

Pair this pasta with a light salad for balance, perhaps a simple mixed greens salad, or some garlic bread for a more hearty meal. A glass of white wine, like a Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio, can also complement this dish beautifully.

If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider serving this pasta in a big bowl in the center of the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. It makes for a friendly, communal dining experience.

How to Store Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta

If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in luck! Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta can be stored in the refrigerator. Simply transfer the pasta to an airtight container and keep it chilled. It should stay fresh for 3 to 4 days.

When ready to enjoy leftovers, you can simply reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth as needed to restore the creamy consistency. If you want to use the microwave, cover the container and heat it for short bursts until it’s warm, stirring in between, until heated through.

Tips to Make Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta

Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like sage and chives can significantly elevate the flavor of your dish. Try to use fresh over dried when possible for maximum taste.
Adjust the Creaminess: If you want a lighter sauce, lessen the amount of cream cheese or substitute with a lighter cream. Conversely, if you prefer it even creamier, feel free to add more cheese.
Customize Your Pasta: While this recipe calls for your favorite type of pasta, consider using whole grain or gluten-free options if that’s your preference. They can add a unique flavor and texture.
Toppings Matter: Toasted pepitas add a nutty crunch, but feel free to experiment with other toppings like fried sage leaves, crumbled bacon, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Make it a One-Pan Meal: For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach into the mix for extra protein and flavor.

Variation

If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, consider these variations:

Add Protein: Make it a complete meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed sausage. This added protein pairs great with the creamy pumpkin sauce.
Different Cheese Options: While cream cheese and goat cheese give this dish a unique flavor, you can substitute them with ricotta or even a vegan alternative for those following a plant-based diet.
Spicy Touch: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while making the sauce or serve with a drizzle of hot sauce.
Vegetable Additions: Bulk it up with seasonal vegetables like sautéed kale, spinach, or roasted butternut squash for added nutrition and texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pumpkin puree instead of fresh?
Yes, using canned pumpkin puree is a great shortcut. Just make sure it’s unflavored. It saves a lot of time in preparation.

2. Is this dish suitable for vegans?
You can easily make it vegan by using vegan cream cheese or another plant-based alternative and replacing butter with olive oil or vegan butter.

3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. The recipe will still turn out delicious!

4. Can this be frozen?
It’s best to consume it fresh, but you can freeze the sauce for later use. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container. But remember that the texture may change when thawed and reheated.

5. What can I serve with Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta?
Consider serving it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. It’s versatile and pairs well with many sides.

Creating a delightful Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta at home doesn’t require extensive culinary skills and is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. With the steps laid out and tips to customize, you can enjoy this comforting meal any time of year. Enjoy!