Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that captures the essence of fall, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! This Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. It’s incredibly rich and creamy, making it a delightful treat for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With real pumpkin and fragrant fresh sage, you’ll be amazed at how quickly this dish comes together—under an hour!

There’s something so special about the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices mingling in your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chill evening or serving it up for friends, this sauce will surely bring smiles to everyone at the table. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This recipe can be whipped up in less than an hour, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you need dinner on the table fast.
• Family-friendly: The creamy texture and delightful flavor make it a hit with both kids and adults alike!
• Wholesome ingredients: Made with simple, nutritious ingredients that you can feel good about serving your loved ones.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main course or as a side to accompany your favorite proteins or veggies.
• Freezer-friendly: Make a double batch and store some in the freezer for an easy meal later—just reheat and enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delicious pumpkin pasta sauce, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. I promise they come together beautifully to create a creamy sauce that hugs each piece of pasta perfectly.

For the Pasta

• 9 Ounces Gluten-Free Pasta (I used Jovial fettucine!)

For the Sauce

• 15 Ounces Pumpkin Puree (Make sure it’s not pumpkin pie filling!)
• 13.5 Ounces Full Fat Coconut Milk
• 1 Sweet Onion, diced
• 1/3 Cup Fresh Sage (You can also use frozen! I freeze herbs from my summer garden.)
• 3-4 Cloves of Garlic, minced
• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1 Teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 Teaspoon Paprika
• 1/4 Teaspoon Cinnamon

Variations

This Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences.

• Add some greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your sauce a bit of kick.
• Change the herbs: Substitute fresh sage with thyme or rosemary if that’s what you have on hand.
• Make it cheesy: Stir in some nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese for a cheesy twist!

How to Make Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by cooking the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped sage in olive oil over medium heat. Sautéing these aromatics brings out their natural sweetness and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma! Stir them around for just a few minutes until they become fragrant.

Step 2: Add Pumpkin and Creaminess

Next, pour in the pumpkin puree along with the full-fat coconut milk, paprika, salt, and cinnamon. These ingredients will create that luscious creamy texture we all crave! Stir everything together on medium heat for a few minutes until well combined.

Step 3: Simmer Away

Now it’s time to cover the pan and let it simmer on low heat for about 25-30 minutes. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully. Remember to stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom!

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

While your sauce is simmering away, cook your gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Once it’s done, drain it well but don’t forget to save a bit of pasta water—you might need it later! When ready, pour the cooked pasta into the sauce and stir until completely coated. It’s all coming together now!

And there you have it—a comforting bowl of pumpkin pasta goodness! Enjoy every bite as you savor this delightful homemade meal that’s sure to warm your heart.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe

Creating the perfect pumpkin pasta sauce is all about the little details! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish comes out delicious every time.

• Use fresh sage: Fresh sage adds a vibrant flavor that dried herbs simply can’t match. If you can, try to get it from a local market or grow it in your garden!

• Adjust the creaminess: If you’d like a thicker sauce, reduce the coconut milk slightly. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter sauce, add more coconut milk until you reach your desired consistency.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to get creative by adding spices like nutmeg or even red pepper flakes for a bit of heat! This can enhance the overall flavor profile and make the dish uniquely yours.

• Sauté longer for depth of flavor: Don’t rush the sautéing process; allowing the onions and garlic to caramelize slightly brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your sauce.

• Save pasta water: Reserve a cup of pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water is perfect for adjusting the sauce’s consistency if needed.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe

Serving this pumpkin pasta sauce can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley or basil: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the sauce.
• Toasted pumpkin seeds: These provide a delightful crunch and an extra touch of nuttiness that complements the pumpkin perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread is always a win! It’s perfect for dipping into that creamy sauce.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or butternut squash bring additional flavor and nutrition to your meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: This simple side not only adds vibrant color but also provides fiber and essential nutrients, making your dinner plate both beautiful and wholesome.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Pumpkin Pasta Sauce will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every bite of this cozy fall favorite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly for maximum freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer the sauce into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Let the sauce cool completely.
• Pour it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the frozen sauce overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Add a splash of coconut milk if it thickens too much during reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use canned pumpkin in this Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling.

What pasta pairs best with this Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe?

While I used gluten-free fettuccine, any pasta shape you love will complement the creamy sauce beautifully! Try penne or spaghetti for a delightful twist.

Can I make this Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly thanks to the coconut milk. Enjoy your creamy sauce without any animal-derived ingredients!

How long does this Pumpkin Pasta Sauce last in the fridge?

The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 5 days, making it a great option for meal prep!

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Definitely! Just ensure you use gluten-free pasta, as outlined in the recipe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this rich and creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe! It’s not only comforting but also brings a taste of fall right into your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, I truly believe this dish will become a favorite. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!