Name: Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 oz rigatoni pasta; 1 tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp finely chopped fresh sage or 1/2 tsp dried; 1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée (not pie filling); 3/4 cup heavy cream (or substitute half-and-half for a lighter version); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Pinch of nutmeg; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp pepper; Optional: 1 tbsp lemon juice or white wine to brighten the sauce

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There’s something irresistibly comforting about this Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Recipe that wraps you in cozy autumn vibes with every bite. This dish blends velvety pumpkin purée, fragrant sage, and savory Parmesan into a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to rigatoni pasta. It’s rich, it’s smooth, and yet surprisingly simple to make—ready in just about 25 minutes, making it an absolute weeknight winner or an elegant but easy addition to any holiday table. If you’re looking for a pasta dish that feels indulgent without any fuss, this recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several clear glass bowls and one glass measuring cup arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center is a medium bowl full of dry rigatoni pasta, yellow and ridged. Surrounding it are smaller bowls containing different ingredients: top left has chopped green herbs, top center has a mix of salt and two spices, top right has minced garlic which is light yellow. Below to the left is a bright orange paste, below center left is grated cheese in a bowl, below center right is a bowl with two small squares of butter, and below right is a bowl with white flour. A small bowl of clear liquid, possibly oil or vinegar, is towards the bottom center. The measuring cup on the right side is filled with white cream or milk. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each one brings something essential to the table—from flavor foundations to creamy texture and that irresistible golden hue.

6 oz rigatoni pasta: Perfect for holding onto that luscious sauce in every groove.
1 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps mellow the garlic and sage.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth and a subtle kick.
1 tsp finely chopped fresh sage (or 1/2 tsp dried): Infuses the dish with an earthy, herbal warmth.
1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée (not pie filling): The star ingredient that adds creamy texture and fall flavor.
3/4 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version): Creates the rich and silky sauce everyone will crave.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory umami and helps thicken the sauce.
Pinch of nutmeg: Gives a subtle spiced warmth that complements pumpkin beautifully.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
1/4 tsp pepper: Adds a gentle heat and balances the creaminess.
Optional: 1 tbsp lemon juice or white wine: Brightens and lifts the flavors for extra depth.

How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook Your Pasta to Perfection

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your rigatoni until al dente. Don’t forget to scoop out about half a cup of the pasta water before draining—it’s liquid gold for adjusting your sauce consistency later on!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sage, stirring until their fragrances fill the kitchen but the garlic hasn’t browned yet—this ensures a fresh, vibrant base for your sauce.

Step 3: Build the Pumpkin Cream Sauce

Stir in the pumpkin purée and cook it for a minute to soften its raw edge while blending the flavors. Then pour in your cream and stir gently until silky smooth. Add the grated Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper next, letting everything simmer on low to thicken into that dreamy sauce you’re after.

Step 4: Adjust and Combine

If your sauce gets too thick, loosen it up with a splash of your reserved pasta water. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet, coating every piece with that rich pumpkin goodness. Use more pasta water if needed to achieve the perfect clingy texture.

Step 5: Brighten and Finish

Give your dish a taste and, if desired, brighten it up with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of white wine—this little touch brings a beautiful balance to all the creamy richness. Plate it up, then sprinkle with extra Parmesan and crispy sage leaves if you’re feeling fancy.

How to Serve Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Recipe

This image shows a white bowl filled with creamy yellow pasta rigatoni. The pasta is coated with a smooth, thick sauce and sprinkled with grated cheese and small green herb pieces on top. A fork lifts a small pile of pasta from the bowl, showing the tubular shape and texture of the rigatoni with sauce clinging to each piece. The background and surface have a white marbled texture, giving a clean and simple look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding crispy sage leaves or an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese on top elevates the dish visually and adds delightful texture and flavor contrasts that make every bite more exciting.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs brilliantly with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a crusty artisanal bread to mop up the luscious sauce—perfect for a satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this pasta in warm shallow bowls to keep the sauce cozy and inviting. For a festive touch, garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of browned butter infused with more sage. These little details make your Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Recipe feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce might thicken as it chills, so don’t be surprised!

Freezing

This dish does best fresh but can be frozen in a sealed container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Rewarm your pasta slowly over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore its silky texture. Stir frequently to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is perfect for holding the sauce, penne or farfalle work beautifully too. Just choose a shape that can trap that creamy pumpkin goodness.

Is canned pumpkin the same as pumpkin pie filling?

Nope! Use pure canned pumpkin purée for cooking—pumpkin pie filling contains sugar and spices and will alter the flavor of your pasta.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, swap the cream for a full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative to keep it rich and creamy without dairy.

What if I don’t have fresh sage?

Dried sage works well in moderation—about half the amount of fresh. It still lends that lovely herbal warmth essential to this recipe.

How can I make this lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter slightly. The dish will still be creamy but with fewer calories.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something that feels like a hug in pasta form, this Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Recipe is ready to deliver. It’s quick, simple, and packed with cozy flavors that will satisfy both your comfort food and gourmet cravings. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite fall dinner in this bowl of creamy magic.