Name: Creamy Pumpkin Sage Pasta for a Cozy Fall Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
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; to taste Kosher Salt; to taste Fresh Pepper

As the leaves begin to change and a crispness fills the air, I find myself gravitating towards comfort food that warms both the heart and the home. Enter my favorite autumn dish: creamy pumpkin sage pasta. This delightful meal swirls together the essence of fall with its rich pumpkin sauce and crunchy pepita topping, offering the cozy embrace we all crave this season.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity; it requires fewer than 10 ingredients! Perfect for those busy weeknights or when I’m prepping meals ahead of time. The flavors meld wonderfully—just imagine the sweetness of pumpkin dancing with the fragrant aroma of fresh sage. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, reminiscent of that classic, cheesy mac and cheese, but with a twist that celebrates the season. So grab your pots and pans, and let’s create a dish that will soon become a staple in your fall cooking repertoire!

Why is Pumpkin Sage Pasta so special?

Simplicity: With fewer than 10 ingredients, this dish is a breeze to whip up!
Rich Flavor: The sweet pumpkin and fragrant sage offer a uniquely cozy profile that’s perfect for autumn.
Heartwarming Comfort: It’s reminiscent of mac and cheese, delivering all the warmth with a seasonal twist.
Versatile Ingredient Swaps: Experiment with butternut squash or toss in sautéed greens for added nutrition.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, it appeals to everyone, whether vegetarian or not.
Ready to make your own cozy dish? Get inspired by our easy variations or side suggestions to elevate your meal!

Pumpkin Sage Pasta Ingredients

Certainly! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish.

For the Pasta
• Pasta – Use your favorite type; any pasta will work wonderfully in this comforting dish.

For the Sauce
• Butter – Adds a rich depth to the sauce; choose a high-quality variety for the best flavor.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic is key; it unlocks aromatic goodness that elevates the dish.
• Shallots – These bring a sweet, mild onion flavor; substitute with onions if necessary, but shallots are preferred.
• Pumpkin Puree – The star of the dish for a creamy texture; unflavored puree is best, or try butternut squash as a swap.
• Cream Cheese or Goat Cheese – Provides creaminess; opt for cream cheese if you’re not a fan of goat cheese.
• Fresh Sage – This herb is essential for an aromatic flavor; dried sage can be used if fresh is unavailable.
• Chives – Adds a lovely pop of color and a mild onion taste; fresh is best but green onions can work too.

For the Topping
• Toasted Pepitas – Provides a delightful crunch; they contrast beautifully with the creamy sauce—feel free to swap with any nuts you prefer.
• Kosher Salt & Fresh Pepper – Essential for enhancing the dish’s flavors; adjust these to taste.

Dive into the warmth of Pumpkin Sage Pasta and enjoy every bite!

How to Make Pumpkin Sage Pasta

Boil Water: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about a cup of that precious pasta water before draining!
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter, then add the chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté them for 1-2 minutes, allowing their fragrant aromas to fill your kitchen.
Mix in Pumpkin: Stir in the pumpkin puree and mix thoroughly. Gradually pour in your reserved pasta water, 1/4 cup at a time, stirring until you’ve reached your desired sauce consistency—creamy but not runny!
Add Cheese and Sage: Whisk in your choice of cream cheese or goat cheese along with the chopped fresh sage. Keep stirring until the sauce is beautifully creamy and the cheese has melted smoothly into the mixture.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring each noodle is well-coated. Season to your liking with kosher salt and fresh pepper to enhance all the delicious flavors.
Serve and Garnish: Plate your creamy pumpkin sage pasta and top with toasted pepitas and chopped chives for a delightful crunch and pop of color. Enjoy while warm!

Optional: Drizzle a little olive oil on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Sage Pasta?

As autumn settles in, pair this creamy dish with vibrant sides and comforting flavors to create a delightful meal experience.

Fresh Apple Fennel Salad: This crunchy salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the pasta, offering bright flavors that elevate your dining experience. Crisp apples and aromatic fennel meld beautifully, making for a light and invigorating companion.
Warm Crusty Baguette: A fresh baguette is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, enhancing the comforting experience. The crispy crust and soft interior create a delightful textural combination that your family will love.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Earthy roasted Brussels sprouts bring a rich flavor profile and a satisfying crunch. Toss them with balsamic glaze for an added touch of sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the pumpkin’s creaminess.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These luscious, buttery mashed potatoes bring a heartwarming element to the table, inviting everyone to dig in. Their rich flavor and velvety texture complement the pumpkin sage pasta for an ultimate comfort food experience.
Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet, crisp corn brings a pop of color and a sweet bite, providing a wonderful balance alongside the savory pasta. Enjoying a bite of corn fresh off the cob adds a touch of nostalgia to any autumn evening.
Crispy Kale Chips: For a light and crunchy side, crispy kale chips add a nutritious boost alongside your pasta dish. Dust them with a sprinkle of salt and a hint of nutritional yeast for a savory, cheesy flavor that matches the autumn vibes perfectly.
Sparkling Pear Cider: Toast the season with a refreshing sparkling pear cider, adding a touch of sweetness to your meal. This beverage pairs beautifully with all the warm flavors, creating an uplifting moment with every sip.
Pumpkin Spice Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with soft pumpkin spice cookies. Their warm spices echo the flavors of the pasta and evoke cozy feelings of home throughout the fall season.

Elevate your Pumpkin Sage Pasta with these delectable pairings and create a meal that celebrates the comfort of autumn!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Sage Pasta

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving pumpkin sage pasta out for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety and quality.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the pumpkin sage pasta, portion it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating frozen pasta, add a little water or broth to help loosen the sauce and avoid a dry texture. Enjoy this cozy dish all season long!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Pumpkin Sage Pasta ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes on busy weeknights! You can cook the pasta and prepare the pumpkin sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the cooked pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, toss the pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy this cozy dish, heat the sauce in a pan, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency. Finally, mix in the pasta and finish with your toasted pepitas and chives for that fresh crunch. Enjoy the comforting flavors of autumn with minimal effort!

Pumpkin Sage Pasta Variations

Unlock the potential of your creamy pumpkin sage pasta with these delightful twists and swaps!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream or a dairy-free cheese alternative for a rich, creamy sauce without dairy.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little extra heat that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
Nutty Flavor: Swap pepitas for toasted walnuts or almonds to introduce a different nutty crunch and enhance the texture of your dish.
Herb Boost: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary along with the sage for a more complex flavor that dances through the dish.
Veggie Wonderland: Sauté chopped zucchini or bell peppers with the shallots for added color and nutrition; the more veggies, the merrier!
Whole Grain: Use whole wheat or lentil pasta for a healthier twist that adds fiber and a nutty taste to your comforting dish.
Protein Power: For those who love a hearty meal, toss in some grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp right before serving to elevate the dish.
Sweet & Savory: Incorporate a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey into the sauce for a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors beautifully.

These variations invite you to experiment and make this cozy dish your own!

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Sage Pasta

Reserve Pasta Water: Always set aside a cup of pasta water before draining; it helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency for your pumpkin sage pasta.
Cheese Choice: If you prefer a milder flavor, stick with cream cheese; goat cheese can be a bit strong for some palates, so choose according to your taste.
Use Fresh Sage: Fresh sage enhances the dish’s flavor; if you must use dried, remember it’s less potent, so adjust the quantity accordingly.
Don’t Skip Pepitas: Toasted pepitas add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce; omitting them might result in a less satisfying texture.
Mix in Greens: For an extra nutrition boost, consider tossing in sautéed spinach or kale just before serving your pumpkin sage pasta.

Pumpkin Sage Pasta Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, opt for canned varieties that list only pumpkin as the ingredient. Avoid those labeled as “pumpkin pie filling,” which often contain added sugars and spices. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also make your own by roasting and pureeing a fresh pumpkin, but that does require extra time!

What’s the best way to store leftovers of my pumpkin sage pasta?
I recommend storing your pumpkin sage pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water or milk to the pan to rejuvenate the creamy sauce. This keeps your dish luscious and delicious!

Can I freeze pumpkin sage pasta?
Very much! To freeze, portion your pumpkin sage pasta into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the creaminess ideal for the dish.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If you find your sauce is thicker than desired, simply add a little of the reserved pasta water—1/4 cup at a time—stirring until you reach your ideal consistency. This trick will help loosen it without sacrificing flavor!

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free or dairy-free?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, swap the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores. For a dairy-free twist, you can use a vegan cream cheese or cashew-based cream to achieve that rich creaminess without dairy.

Can pets eat pumpkin sage pasta?
While pure pumpkin is safe for pets in moderation, the garlic and shallots used in this recipe can be harmful to them. If you wish to share with your furry friend, I suggest setting aside a plain portion of just the pumpkin and pasta, skipping the seasonings and cheese.