Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta

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why make this recipe

Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta is not just a dish; it is a celebration of flavor and comfort. As the seasons change, it brings the warmth of autumn to your table, making it perfect for cozy dinners. The combination of creamy cheese and pumpkin offers a balance of richness and earthiness, while the sage adds a herby freshness. This dish is easy to make, yet sophisticated enough to impress guests. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or a dish to serve during a family gathering, this pasta recipe ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s a delightful way to enjoy pumpkin, a star ingredient of the fall season.

By making this recipe, you’re not only treating yourself to a tasty meal, but you’re also incorporating healthy ingredients. Pumpkin is packed with vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. This recipe can be adapted for vegetarians and can be made gluten-free by substituting with a pasta alternative. With just a few simple ingredients, it transforms into something special, making it an ideal choice regardless of your cooking skill level. So, let’s dive into how to make this amazing pasta dish!

how to make Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta

Ingredients:

8 ounces Pasta (Use your favorite type)
2 tablespoons Butter (High-quality variety)
2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
1 medium Shallots (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 rapid boil. Add the pasta of your choice and cook it according to the instructions on the package until it is al dente, which means it should still have a little bite. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water to use later. Drain the pasta, then set it aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: Using the same pot you used to cook the pasta, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and chopped shallots. Sauté these for around 2-3 minutes until they become softened and fragrant.
Add the Pumpkin: It’s now time to stir in the pumpkin puree. Cook it on medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to blend and create a lovely base for your sauce.
Make It Creamy: Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese (or goat cheese) to the pumpkin mixture. Stir attentively until the cheese has melted into the sauce and becomes smooth. If it looks too thick, you can gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach a creamy consistency.
Season the Sauce: Now, add the chopped fresh sage to the sauce and stir it in. Season with kosher salt and fresh pepper to taste. This step is essential as it lifts the entire dish and brings all the flavors together.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta into the sauce and toss it gently until all the pasta is evenly coated. If you find it necessary, you can add more of the reserved pasta water to help combine everything smoothly.
Garnish and Serve: To finish, top the dish with toasted pepitas and chopped chives. Serve it immediately, and consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

how to serve Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta

Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta can serve as a stunning main dish, especially when garnished beautifully. Here are several serving suggestions:

Plate Presentation: Twirl the pasta with a fork and spoon before placing it on plates to create an elegant presentation. Drizzle a little olive oil or add a splash of cream on top for an added touch.
Accompaniments: Pair it with a light, green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to balance the creaminess of the pasta. Crusty bread or garlic bread goes well on the side for additional texture and flavor.
Wine Pairing: Consider serving this dish with a light white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio, which will complement the rich flavors without overpowering them.
Garnishes: Fresh parsley or additional sage can be used as garnish for a pop of color and freshness.

how to store Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta

If you find yourself with leftovers, you can easily store Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta. Here’s how:

Refrigeration: Allow the pasta to cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it into an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: Although cream-based pastas can be tricky to freeze, you can still freeze this dish. Place any leftover pasta into a freezer-safe container and it should last for about a month. Remember that the creamy texture may change once thawed, so it might be best to eat it fresh.
Reheating: To reheat refrigerated pasta, you can use a microwave or stovetop. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water while reheating to restore its creaminess.

tips to make Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta

To ensure you get the best results with your Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta, keep these tips in mind:

Choose Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe relies on a few key ingredients, using good quality butter, fresh sage, and genuine pumpkin puree can really enhance the flavor.
Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water is starchy and helps to bind the sauce and pasta together. Always reserve it before draining your pasta.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce as you cook and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference. This allows you to customize the flavors to your liking.
Experiment with Cheeses: While cream cheese or goat cheese are excellent choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like Parmesan or ricotta for variations in flavor and texture.
Add Protein: If you want to make this a more filling meal, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms to the pasta.

variation

Feel free to explore variations of this recipe based on your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

Add Leafy Greens: Tossing in some fresh spinach or kale during the cooking process adds nutrients and color to the dish.
Spice it Up: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
Use Different Pasta Shapes: While long pasta like fettuccine or tagliatelle works beautifully, you can also try this sauce with short pasta shapes like penne or shells for a different texture.
Make it Vegan: For a vegan-friendly version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can definitely use fresh pumpkin. Simply roast or steam the pumpkin until tender, then blend it into a smooth puree. This fresh version may have a lighter flavor and texture.

2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta gluten-free, just substitute the pasta with a gluten-free pasta variety. There are many excellent options available today, and they work well with this creamy sauce.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Prepare the sauce and cook the pasta, then combine them just before serving. You may need to add a little extra liquid when reheating to maintain the creamy consistency.

4. Can I freeze Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta?

It can be frozen, but the texture may change upon thawing. If you’d like to freeze it, place the pasta in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

5. How can I make it more nutritious?

To boost the nutrition of this dish, consider adding vegetables such as peas, kale, or spinach. Additionally, you can use whole grain or legume-based pasta to increase the fiber content.

6. What can I use instead of sage?

If you don’t have sage on hand, other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even basil can work as substitutes. Each will impart its unique flavor to the dish.

This Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a fantastic choice for any home cook. Enjoy every creamy bite as you savor the essence of fall!