Jump to Recipe Print RecipeDiving into autumn means embracing that warm, cozy feeling in every bite of food we enjoy. With my Creamy Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s, I’ve transformed a nostalgic childhood dish into a seasonal delight that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. This vegetarian, one-pot recipe combines the rich, creamy pumpkin sauce with the unique twist of O-shaped pasta, creating a comforting meal that balances sweetness with savory notes. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and packed with fall flavors, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. Who wouldn’t want to savor a dish that not only warms the soul but also sparks joyful memories? Are you ready to discover how easy it is to cook up this delightful autumn meal? Why Is This Recipe a Fall Favorite? Comforting Flavors: The creamy pumpkin sauce envelops the pasta, creating a cozy dish that evokes the essence of autumn. Quick and Easy: In just one pot, you can whip up a satisfying meal perfect for those busy evenings. Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with different pasta shapes or add proteins like crispy pancetta for extra nourishment. Nostalgic Twist: The O-shaped pasta adds a playful element, bringing back childhood memories with every bite. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings, this dish is sure to warm hearts, leaving everyone asking for seconds. If you love comforting recipes, check out my Spaghetti Squash Gratin for another fall-inspired delight! Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s Ingredients • To embark on a cozy culinary adventure, gather these delightful ingredients for your Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s. For the Sauce Salted Butter – Adds richness and depth of flavor to the sauce. Fresh Sage Leaves – Infuses the dish with a warm, earthy aroma; substitute dried if fresh isn’t available. Garlic – Provides essential savory notes, with fresh offering the best flavor. Chili Flakes – Adds just the right hint of heat to balance the sweetness of the pumpkin; adjust to taste. Pumpkin Purée – The star ingredient for creaminess and autumnal flavor; both canned and homemade purées work well. Apple Cider – Introduces a subtle sweetness and tang; for a savory twist, use vegetable broth instead. For the Pasta Anellini Pasta (or small pasta like Orzo, Ditalini) – The unique O-shaped pasta that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce; feel free to experiment with other small pasta varieties. For the Cheese Parmesan Cheese – Offers salty depth and richness; optional for a vegetarian version, where nutritional yeast can be used. Gouda Cheese – Contributes a creamy texture with a hint of sweetness; substitute cheddar if necessary. For Finishing Touches Nutmeg – Elevates the warm flavors; use freshly grated for optimal results. Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste. Fresh Thyme – Adds a fragrant herby touch; dried thyme can replace fresh if needed. Milk/Cream – Thin out the sauce to adjust creaminess to your preference, as desired. Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to crafting a heartwarming dish of Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s Step 1: Brown Butter and Herbs In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat until it begins to bubble, about 2 minutes. Add 6 fresh sage leaves and a sprig of fresh thyme, cooking until the butter turns a nutty brown and the sage becomes crispy, around 4 minutes. Remove the sage leaves with a slotted spoon and set them aside to retain their crispiness. Step 2: Build the Creamy Sauce Lower the heat slightly, and to the same skillet, add the chopped crispy sage, 2 minced garlic cloves, and ¼ teaspoon of chili flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in 1 cup of pumpkin purée and ½ cup of apple cider. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened and combined beautifully with the flavors from the browned butter. Step 3: Cook the Pasta Pour in 4 cups of water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 1 cup of anellini pasta along with a generous pinch of kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Cook the pasta according to package directions, typically about 12 minutes, or until al dente. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick, soaking up all that delicious pumpkin sauce. Step 4: Finalize the Dish Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup gouda cheese, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg. Keep stirring until the cheeses melt into the creamy pumpkin sauce, about 2 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, gently thin it with a splash of milk or cream to reach your desired creamy consistency. Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Plate your delightful Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s immediately, ensuring a generous coating of the creamy sauce clings to the pasta. Garnish with the reserved crispy sage leaves for an elegant touch. This cozy dish is perfect for a heartwarming fall meal that’ll delight family and friends alike. What to Serve with Creamy Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s Imagine a cozy autumn table brimming with flavors, elevating your heartwarming pasta dish into a delightful family feast. Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery toast is perfect for soaking up the creamy pumpkin sauce, making each bite more satisfying. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with tangy vinaigrette adds a lovely contrast to the rich, comforting spaghetti, balancing the meal. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized sprouts bring a savory depth and crunchy texture, complementing the creamy dish beautifully. Crispy Sage Chips: An extra crispy touch using fried sage leaves enhances the herb flavor in your pasta while adding delightful crunch. Apple Cider: Sipping on this seasonal drink highlights the fall flavors in the dish and enhances the overall cozy dining experience. Pumpkin Pie: End your meal on a sweet note! This classic dessert echoes the dish’s pumpkin flavors, perfect for autumn celebrations. Creamy Polenta: A smooth side of polenta offers a rich, creamy texture, harmonizing with the essence of pumpkin and cheese. Wine Pairing: A crisp Chardonnay or fruity Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully, adding depth and enhancing the festive atmosphere around your table. Cheese Platter: Enhance the gathering with assorted cheeses; a mix of creamy and aged varieties offers a perfect balance to the melt-in-your-mouth pasta. How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring the creamy pumpkin sauce stays fresh and delicious. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Consider freezing in portion sizes for easy meals later on. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce is too thick. Make-Ahead Tip: The creamy pumpkin sauce can be prepared in advance and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days, making your cooking even more convenient. Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s Variations & Substitutions Get ready to transform your Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s with these fun and flavorful twists that will brighten your meal even further! Butternut Squash: Substitute butternut squash purée for the pumpkin for a sweeter, slightly different flavor profile that still screams fall goodness. Protein Boost: Add crispy pancetta or diced chicken to enhance the dish with protein while bringing a delightful crunch to each bite. Can’t go wrong with the savory flavor these add! Cheddar Twist: If gouda isn’t available, feel free to swap in sharp cheddar for a bolder taste that beautifully complements the pumpkin base. Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative, making it just as comforting without compromising on flavor. You won’t even notice the difference! Creamy Variations: Replace milk or cream with unsweetened almond milk for a lighter, dairy-free version that still maintains creaminess. This twist is perfect for those looking for a vegan option. Herb Infusion: Include a sprinkle of dried rosemary or nutty sage in addition to thyme for an aromatic herb mix that uplifts the flavor profile. Extra Veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach or roasted zucchini for added nutrition and texture that makes this dish even heartier. Spicy Kick: Increase the chili flakes for more heat if you love a spicy twist; there’s nothing like that warm kick to embrace the fall chill! These variations allow you to put a personal touch on your Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s. And don’t forget, if you’re exploring more veggie-forward recipes, my Spaghetti Squash Gratin could be a delightful pick! Make Ahead Options These Creamy Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy pumpkin sauce up to 3 days in advance by following these steps: After cooking the sauce, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate the sauce, ensuring it’s well-sealed to maintain its rich flavors and prevent moisture loss. On the day you plan to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stove while cooking the pasta, which only takes about 12 minutes to achieve that delightful al dente texture. Add cheese and any finishing touches once the pasta is cooked, and you’ll have a comforting and delicious meal ready in no time! Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s Perfect Pasta Cook: Use a timer to ensure your anellini pasta doesn’t overcook; it should be al dente for the best texture. Avoid Burnt Butter: Keep a close eye on the butter while browning; it can burn quickly if left unattended. Thickness Control: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk or cream to achieve the creamy consistency you desire. How to Savor Flavor: Always taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process for the most balanced Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s. Cheese Variations: Feel free to try different cheeses such as brie or feta for a unique twist on flavor and creaminess. Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the pumpkin sauce in advance and simply reheat it while cooking the pasta for a quick weeknight dinner. Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s Recipe FAQs What type of pumpkin purée should I use? Absolutely! You can use either canned pumpkin purée or homemade purée for this recipe. Canned pumpkin is convenient and consistent, while homemade purée allows for a fresher taste. If you’re making your own, simply bake or steam your pumpkin until tender, then blend until smooth. How do I store leftover Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s? For the best results, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow the dish to cool before sealing it up, which helps maintain its creamy texture and flavors. Can I freeze Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s? Yes, you can! Just place the Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge. What should I do if my sauce is too thick? If you find your creamy pumpkin sauce has thickened too much while cooking, no worries! Simply add a splash of milk or cream to the skillet and stir until you reach the desired consistency. Doing this will help regain that luscious creaminess. Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions? Very! If you’re dealing with dietary restrictions, you can replace the Gouda cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative. For those avoiding gluten, opt for gluten-free pasta. Just ensure that other ingredients, like the apple cider or broth, are also gluten-free if necessary. What can I add for a protein boost? I often recommend adding crispy pancetta or grilled chicken for a protein upgrade. You can cook them separately and mix them in just before serving, ensuring a delightful balance of flavors within your Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s. Cozy Pumpkin Spaghetti O's for a Heartwarming Fall Meal No ratings yet Enjoy this comforting Pumpkin Spaghetti O's, a nostalgic dish perfect for fall family gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sauce4 tablespoons Salted Butter Adds richness and depth of flavor to the sauce.6 leaves Fresh Sage Leaves Infuses the dish with a warm, earthy aroma; substitute dried if fresh isn’t available.2 cloves Garlic Provides essential savory notes, with fresh offering the best flavor.¼ teaspoon Chili Flakes Adds just the right hint of heat to balance the sweetness of the pumpkin; adjust to taste.1 cup Pumpkin Purée The star ingredient for creaminess and autumnal flavor; both canned and homemade purées work well.½ cup Apple Cider Introduces a subtle sweetness and tang; for a savory twist, use vegetable broth instead.For the Pasta1 cup Anellini Pasta The unique O-shaped pasta that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce; feel free to experiment with other small pasta varieties.For the Cheese½ cup Parmesan Cheese Offers salty depth and richness; optional for a vegetarian version, where nutritional yeast can be used.½ cup Gouda Cheese Contributes a creamy texture with a hint of sweetness; substitute cheddar if necessary.For Finishing Touches1 pinch Nutmeg Elevates the warm flavors; use freshly grated for optimal results.to taste Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste.to taste Black Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste.1 sprig Fresh Thyme Adds a fragrant herby touch; dried thyme can replace fresh if needed.as needed Milk/Cream Thin out the sauce to adjust creaminess to your preference, as desired. Equipment Large skilletslotted spoon Method Cooking InstructionsIn a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat until it begins to bubble, about 2 minutes. Add 6 fresh sage leaves and a sprig of fresh thyme, cooking until the butter turns a nutty brown and the sage becomes crispy, around 4 minutes. Remove the sage leaves with a slotted spoon and set them aside to retain their crispiness.Lower the heat slightly, and to the same skillet, add the chopped crispy sage, 2 minced garlic cloves, and ¼ teaspoon of chili flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in 1 cup of pumpkin purée and ½ cup of apple cider. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.Pour in 4 cups of water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 1 cup of anellini pasta along with a generous pinch of kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Cook the pasta according to package directions, typically about 12 minutes, or until al dente.Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup gouda cheese, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg. Stir until the cheeses melt into the creamy pumpkin sauce, about 2 minutes. Thin the sauce with a splash of milk or cream if required.Plate your Pumpkin Spaghetti O’s immediately, ensuring a generous coating of the creamy sauce clings to the pasta. Garnish with the reserved crispy sage leaves. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Prepare the sauce in advance and simply reheat it while cooking the pasta for a quick weeknight dinner. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
