## Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Sage – A Fall Favorite 🎃🍝
Warm up your week with this delightful Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Sage. Bursting with the robust flavors of fall, this pasta dish marries fresh, earthy sage with a smooth and comforting pumpkin sauce. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gorgeous seasonal gathering!
## Why Make This Recipe?
Are you looking for a way to put a seasonal twist on Italian cuisine? This is it. Combining the hearty flavor of pumpkin with the aromatic goodness of sage, this pasta dish is anything but ordinary. Plus, with prep and cook time totaling only 30 minutes, it’s a quick and easy recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste.
## How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Sage?
**Ingredients:**
– 12 oz of your favorite pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 fresh sage leaves
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
**Directions:**
1. Kick off by cooking your pasta according to its package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it saute until it fills the room with its inviting aroma.
3. Introduce the pumpkin puree and heavy cream to the skillet, whisking until smooth.
4. Stir in the parmesan cheese, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Season with salt and pepper to your liking and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. While the sauce simmers, melt butter in a small skillet and add sage leaves. Fry until sage is crispy, then remove from heat.
6. Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy pumpkin sauce until well coated.
7. Serve hot, topped with crispy sage leaves and a sprinkle of parmesan.
## How to Serve Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Sage?
Serve the creamy pumpkin pasta hot, garnished with the crispy sage leaves and perhaps a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad would complement this rich pasta dish wonderfully.
## How to Store Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Sage?
Store leftover pumpkin pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently simmer on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk if necessary to refresh the sauce.
## Tips to Make Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Sage
Tip 1: Cook your pasta just until it’s al dente to prevent it from getting too soft when mixed with the sauce.
Tip 2: If your sauce ends up too thick, simply thin it with a little pasta water.
## Variations (if any)
For a vegan-friendly version, swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use a vegan cheese substitute.
## FAQs
**Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?**
A: Yes, you can roast and puree a fresh pumpkin if you prefer. However, canned pumpkin puree is an easy and quick alternative.
**Q: Can I use another type of pasta?**
A: Absolutely! Fettuccine is suggested but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand.
**Q: Can I use dried sage instead of fresh?**
A: Fresh sage is recommended for its bold and earthy flavor. If you only have dried sage, remember, it’s generally more potent so you’ll need less of it.
Enjoy the fall season with this highly comforting and simple pasta dish! This Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Sage brings a delightful twist to your regular pasta night and is sure to warm your hearts and bowls!