Name: Creamy Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage Ready in 25 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces penne pasta (or rigatoni/fusilli); 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any cooking oil); 1 pound sweet Italian sausage (or turkey sausage for a lighter option); 2-3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup canned pumpkin purée (or fresh cooked pumpkin); 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 1/4 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free); 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (or a pinch of cinnamon); to taste salt & pepper; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast for vegan); to taste chopped parsley (optional topping); to taste red pepper flakes (optional topping)

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As I stirred the pot, the warm, earthy aroma of pumpkin mingled with the sizzling sweetness of Italian sausage, instantly transporting me to a cozy autumn evening. This 25-Minute Creamy Pumpkin & Sausage Pasta is not just a dish; it’s a comforting embrace, perfect for those weeknights when you crave something delicious yet quick to prepare. With its velvety sauce delicately spiced with nutmeg and highlighted by the richness of melted Parmesan, it transforms into an elegant meal that the whole family will adore. Plus, you can easily swap out ingredients to create a vegetarian option or use various pasta shapes to keep it exciting! Isn’t it time we embraced a heartwarming bowl of pasta? Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to whip up this delightful dish together!

Why Is This Pasta So Special?

Comforting Warmth: The combination of pumpkin and sausage creates a delightful harmony that’s perfect for a cozy meal.

Quick & Easy: In just 25 minutes, you can have a hearty dinner on the table, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Endless Variations: Swap out ingredients based on your dietary needs—try it with turkey sausage or even a plant-based alternative with lentils for a colorful twist.

Rich Flavor Explosion: The creamy sauce, spiced with nutmeg and finished with Parmesan, offers a luxurious taste that belies its simplicity.

Family-Friendly Appeal: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring everyone will enjoy their plate. Pair it with a refreshing arugula salad from your favorites like Deviled Egg Pasta for the perfect meal!

Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage Ingredients

• For the Pasta

Penne pasta (or rigatoni/fusilli) – A versatile base that holds the sauce well; feel free to substitute it with any pasta shape you fancy.

• For the Sauce

Olive oil – Great for browning the sausage and adding healthy fats; can be replaced with any cooking oil you prefer.
Sweet Italian sausage – Offers a savory depth; swap for turkey sausage if you’re looking for a lighter option, or leave it out for a vegetarian dish.
Garlic – Minced for maximum flavor; garlic powder works as an alternative if fresh isn’t handy.
Canned pumpkin purée – Provides creaminess and flavor; freshly cooked pumpkin is an excellent substitute too.
Chicken broth (or veggie broth) – Adds moisture and depth to the sauce; homemade or low-sodium broth is a great option.
Heavy cream – Essential for a rich texture; coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free version.
Ground nutmeg – Enhances the warmth of the dish; a pinch of cinnamon can work in a pinch but will change the flavor profile.
Salt & pepper – Elevates the taste; adjust to your preference.
Grated Parmesan – Adds a creamy, salty finish; use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.

• For Serving

Optional toppings – Chopped parsley adds freshness, while red pepper flakes bring a kick of heat.

Get ready to savor every bite of your delightful Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add in your choice of penne pasta and cook until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water—it will help thicken your sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sweet Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spatula. Let it brown for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely caramelized and cooked through. Create a space in the skillet by pushing the sausage to the sides for the next steps.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Sauté
With the sausage pushed to the sides, add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the center of the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and golden. This will enhance the flavors of your creamy sauce for the Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage.

Step 4: Combine Sauce Ingredients
Next, stir in one cup of canned pumpkin purée, along with 1 cup of chicken broth and ¼ cup of heavy cream. Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes smooth.

Step 5: Mix Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, then toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the pumpkin sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually stir in some of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency. Incorporate ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish to the Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Divide the creamy pasta into bowls while it’s still hot. For an extra touch, sprinkle with additional Parmesan, fresh chopped parsley, and a dash of red pepper flakes for those who like a little heat. Serve immediately and enjoy a heartwarming dish that’s a perfect blend of flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce in advance by simmering the pumpkin, sausage, garlic, and cream up to 3 days ahead. Just let it cool, refrigerate in an airtight container, and you’ll have a rich sauce ready when you need it. Cook the pasta on the day you plan to serve; storing it separately prevents it from becoming mushy. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the sauce on the stovetop, add the freshly cooked pasta, and incorporate some reserved pasta water to achieve the ideal consistency. This way, your dinner is as delicious and comforting as if you made it from scratch, without the stress!

Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage Variations

Feel free to make this cozy dish your own with these exciting adaptations that will bring out new flavors and textures.

Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the sausage with cooked lentils or a medley of sautéed mushrooms for a hearty meat-free option. You won’t miss the meat in this robust version!
Creamy Vegan: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a delightful vegan twist, reminiscent of the classic.
Spicy Kick: Add hot Italian sausage or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to spice up the sauce. This will surely warm your palate on cooler evenings.
Add Greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritious boost that not only looks vibrant but also enhances the dish’s healthiness.
Nutty Flavor: Stirring in a scoop of nut butter like almond or cashew before serving can add a unique, creamy richness that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Fresh Herbs: Enhance freshness with a handful of chopped basil or sage stirred in at the end. These fragrant herbs can elevate the dish’s aroma and flavor.
Pasta Variety: Switch up the pasta shape to your family’s favorite! Fusilli holds the sauce well, while farfalle adds a whimsical touch.

Transform your dining experience by experimenting with these variations! If you’re interested in other delicious pasta recipes, check out Tomato Pasta One or for a comforting take, consider Pasta Puttanesca Savory. Each of these offers a unique twist on classic pasta dishes!

What to Serve with Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage

As you prepare this heartwarming dish, it’s delightful to think about what can accompany it for a well-rounded meal.

Simple Arugula Salad: A fresh salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess of the pasta, offering a bright, zesty contrast.
Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty bread to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce, enhancing the comfort of your meal.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crispy, buttery breadsticks make the perfect side, adding a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the silky pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables brings in earthy flavors and texture, balancing the rich sauce with nutritious bites.
Chardonnay: A glass of crisp Chardonnay complements the creamy notes of the sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience with its refreshing acidity.
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake: For dessert, a slice of this rich cheesecake can echo the pumpkin flavors, completing the meal with a sweet touch that feels like a warm embrace.

Expert Tips for Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage

Taste the Sauce: Remember to taste and adjust seasoning before tossing in the pasta, as the pumpkin’s mild flavor can sometimes need a boost.
Adjust Consistency: If your sauce seems too thick, simmer it uncovered for a few minutes or gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the perfect creamy texture for your Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage.
Fresh Herbs Boost: Enhance the dish’s flavor by adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley. These can elevate your meal and add a burst of color.
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to revive the creaminess.
Experiment with Pasta Shapes: Don’t hesitate to use different pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni. Each will hold onto the delicious sauce in its own unique way!

Storage Tips for Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the creamy texture and flavor.

Freezer: You can freeze the Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely and use a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to restore the creaminess of the sauce.

Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the dish within 2 hours, it’s safe to leave it at room temperature. However, refrigerate any leftovers promptly to ensure food safety.

Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins—they are sweeter and more flavorful than larger carving pumpkins. Look for pumpkins that feel heavy for their size and have a firm skin. Avoid pumpkins with dark spots or soft areas.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
You can store your Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To retain its creamy texture, make sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing and refrigerating.

Can I freeze this pasta dish?
Yes, you can freeze it! Let it cool completely and transfer the Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage into a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.

What can I do if my sauce turns out too thick?
No worries! If you find your sauce has thickened too much after cooking, add a little reserved pasta water or broth while it simmers on low heat, stirring until you achieve the desired consistency. This will help integrate everything smoothly.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Very! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the sweet Italian sausage and replace it with cooked lentils or sautéed veggies. You can also use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative that maintains the creamy texture.

What should I be aware of for food allergies?
Keep in mind that this recipe contains wheat (from the pasta), dairy (from the cream and cheese), and can include allergens depending on the sausage used (such as soy in some brands). Always check labels and choose ingredients that suit your dietary needs, or consult with your doctor if you have specific allergies.