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As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to change, there’s no better way to embrace the season than with a comforting bowl of creamy garlic Parmesan pumpkin pasta. This delightful dish not only celebrates the rich flavors of fall but also provides a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy evenings spent indoors. With its velvety sauce and the subtle sweetness of pumpkin, this pasta recipe is sure to become a staple in your autumn meal rotation.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta

Discover the ultimate fall comfort food with creamy garlic Parmesan pumpkin pasta. This easy recipe combines the rich flavors of pumpkin, garlic, and cheese for a warm, satisfying dish that's perfect for cozy nights in or special gatherings. Loaded with nutrients from pumpkin and enhanced by fresh herbs, this pasta is not only delicious but also healthy. Elevate your autumn meal rotation with this delightful and creamy pasta that captures the essence of the season.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz fettuccine (or your pasta of choice)

1 cup pumpkin puree (homemade or canned)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta thoroughly. Set aside for later.

    Prepare the Sauce Base: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic releases a fragrant aroma.

      Add Pumpkin and Cream: Next, stir the pumpkin puree into the skillet, allowing it to heat through for an additional 2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and use a whisk to blend the mixture thoroughly. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.

        Incorporate Cheese and Seasoning: Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. Season the mixture with dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg if desired. If you find the sauce is too thick, incorporate a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred creaminess.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once your sauce is rich and velvety, add the cooked fettuccine directly into the skillet. Gently toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring every strand is generously coated and covered in that creamy pumpkin goodness.

            Serve: Transfer the creamy pasta to serving plates or bowls. Finish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a garnish of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this dish.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings