Why It’s Perfect for Fall
This recipe combines the rich sweetness of pumpkin with savory sage and nutty Parmesan cheese, creating a velvety sauce that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or fettuccine work well)
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for added richness)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh sage, finely chopped (or ½ tsp dried sage)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: crispy fried sage leaves, toasted pumpkin seeds, red chili flakes
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and fresh sage, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. The aroma of garlic and sage will instantly evoke cozy fall vibes.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Add dry pasta and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 3: Incorporate Pumpkin and Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in pumpkin puree and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. The pumpkin adds a rich orange color, while the Parmesan lends a nutty depth of flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Divide the pasta into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, crispy fried sage leaves, or toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch. For a touch of heat, sprinkle some red chili flakes on top. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Sage: Fresh sage has a more vibrant flavor than dried sage, but both work well. If using dried sage, reduce the quantity by half.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks—it should be tender but still have a slight bite.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
- Crispy Sage Garnish: Fry fresh sage leaves in a little olive oil until crisp, then use them as a garnish for added texture and visual appeal.
- Sautéing Garlic and Sage: Capture the moment when garlic and sage hit the hot oil, releasing their aroma. Use natural lighting to highlight the golden tones.
- Simmering Pasta: Show the pasta cooking in the broth, with steam rising and the liquid gradually thickening.
- Stirring in Pumpkin: Focus on the transformation of the dish as the pumpkin puree is added, turning the sauce a rich orange color.
- Finished Dish: Style the final plated pasta with garnishes like Parmesan, crispy sage, and pumpkin seeds. Include seasonal props like a small pumpkin or autumn leaves for context.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Creamy One-Pot Pumpkin Sage Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Its vibrant colors, seasonal ingredients, and creamy texture make it a standout dish for fall.
Enjoy the process of cooking and styling this dish—it’s as much about the experience as it is about the taste. 🍂✨
