Name: Creamy Pumpkin Feta Pasta: A Cozy Fall Favorite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Pasta (penne or rigatoni); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (pure pumpkin puree for sweetness); 6 ounces Feta Cheese (crumbled, swap for goat cheese or ricotta if preferred); 1 cup Heavy Cream (plant-based cream can be used for a vegan version); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for sautéing); 1 tablespoon Fresh Sage (chopped; dried sage can be used instead (1 tbsp)); 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 2 tablespoons Butter (for added richness); 1 small Onion (chopped); 1 cup Vegetable Broth or Pasta Water (for thinning sauce); 1/4 cup Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas) (toasted)

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As the leaves start to turn and the air cools, I find myself craving the comforting warmth of fall-inspired dishes. That’s where my creamy Pumpkin Feta Pasta comes in—a delightful blend of creamy pumpkin sauce and tangy feta that turns an ordinary meal into a heartwarming experience. This recipe not only comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights, but it’s also impressively versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite proteins or greens. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish’s sophisticated flavor and beautiful presentation will surely impress. Curious to dive into the cozy flavors of autumn? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Pumpkin Feta Pasta a Must-Try?

Comforting, Creamy Texture: The blend of pumpkin puree and heavy cream creates a rich sauce that envelops the pasta beautifully.
Unique Flavor Duo: Tangy feta pairs perfectly with the sweetness of pumpkin, offering a taste that’s both unexpected and delightful.
Quick to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a gourmet meal on the table in no time—ideal for busy weekdays.
Customizable Options: Whether you prefer it vegetarian or with added protein, this recipe can be tailored to fit your tastes. Try adding grilled chicken or even a handful of greens like spinach!
Stunning Presentation: A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds and crumbled feta transforms this dish into an eye-catching centerpiece, perfect for entertaining.
Don’t miss out on the delicious experience of this Egg Macaroni Pasta or the fresh flair of a Blueberry Peach Feta for your next gathering!

Pumpkin Feta Pasta Ingredients

• Creamy, delightful, and perfect for fall!

For the Pasta

Pasta – Use penne, rigatoni, or any preferred shape for the best texture.

For the Sauce

Pumpkin Puree – The star of the dish, ensuring it’s pure pumpkin puree for the right sweetness.
Feta Cheese – Adds a salty tang; swap for goat cheese or ricotta for a different twist.
Heavy Cream – Guarantees a smooth and rich sauce; can be substituted with plant-based cream for a vegan version.
Parmesan Cheese – Enriches the sauce with depth and umami flavor.
Garlic – Introduces aromatic goodness that makes everything better.
Olive Oil – Used for sautéing and enhancing the overall flavor.
Fresh Sage – Adds herbaceous notes that complement the pumpkin; dried sage can be used in a pinch (1 tablespoon).
Red Pepper Flakes – For those who love a little heat to balance the flavors.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste.
Butter – Enhances richness and adds a velvety touch.
Onion – Your base for aromatic flavor—it sets the stage for the sauce.
Vegetable Broth or Pasta Water – Perfect for thinning the sauce and adding depth.

For the Garnish

Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas) – Toasted for crunch and a lovely nutty flavor.

With this delightful assortment, your Pumpkin Feta Pasta will shine as a comforting fall favorite, ready to bring smiles around the dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Feta Pasta

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add one chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and fragrant. The sautéing process will enhance the flavors, creating a lovely base for your creamy Pumpkin Feta Pasta.

Step 2: Add Garlic & Sage
Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh sage. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to become aromatic without burning. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen fills with a warm, inviting scent, setting the stage for your delicious sauce.

Step 3: Combine with Pumpkin
Add one cup of pure pumpkin puree to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often. The mixture should begin to bubble slightly, indicating it’s heating through and melding with the sautéed aromatics. This step enhances the flavors, making your sauce even creamier.

Step 4: Make Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Cook over medium-low heat until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens—around 4-5 minutes. The sauce should transform into a velvety, creamy texture that clings beautifully to the pasta later.

Step 5: Season
Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes, adjusting to your taste. Allow the sauce to simmer on low for 10-15 minutes, giving it a good stir every few minutes. You’ll notice the flavors intensifying while the sauce thickens, enriching your Pumpkin Feta Pasta.

Step 6: Cook Pasta
In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta (like penne or rigatoni) according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water to help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Step 7: Combine
Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the sauce in the skillet. Toss everything together gently, adding reserved pasta water as necessary to achieve your desired sauce thickness. The creamy Pumpkin Feta Pasta should become well-coated and luscious.

Step 8: Finishing Touches
Fold in half of the crumbled feta cheese and drizzle melted butter over the dish. Gently mix to incorporate the flavors and enhance the creaminess, allowing the feta to soften and blend into the rich pumpkin sauce while the dish is still warm.

Step 9: Serve
Plate the Pumpkin Feta Pasta and garnish with the remaining feta cheese and a generous sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch. This final touch not only adds flavor but also elevates the dish’s presentation, making it perfect for a cozy fall dinner or gathering.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Pumpkin Feta Pasta dishes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the pumpkin sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy goodness. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce on low heat, stirring occasionally to restore its luscious texture. Cook your pasta fresh right before you mix it with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water to achieve the desired creaminess. This way, you’ll have a comforting, flavorful meal ready in no time, just as delicious as if you made it entirely from scratch on the day!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Feta Pasta

The comforting, creamy essence of this dish invites a delightful medley of sides and accompaniments, turning dinner into a full dining experience.

Side Salad: A crisp mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta, refreshing your palate between bites.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread adds an irresistible aroma and crunchy texture that perfectly complements the silkiness of the pasta sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful, caramelized roasted seasonal vegetables enhance the meal with earthy flavors and add a nutritious touch.
Toasted Pumpkin Seeds: Sprinkling additional toasted pumpkin seeds over your pasta echoes the garnish, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness and crunch of Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection bring a delightful contrast to the sweet and savory notes of the Pumpkin Feta Pasta.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or a light white wine with fruity notes pairs graciously, cutting through the richness and enhancing the flavorful experience.
Apple Crisp: To finish on a sweet note, a warm apple crisp drizzled with caramel sauce echoes fall flavors, bringing a comforting and cozy end to your meal.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Feta Pasta

Perfect Sauce Thickness: Adjust the sauce consistency gradually with reserved pasta water to achieve your desired creaminess without making it too runny.

Flavor Boost: For enhanced depth, consider roasting fresh pumpkin before using it in the puree, which brings out its natural sweetness.

Make-Ahead Friendly: If you’re prepping ahead, the sauce can be refrigerated for up to three days—just reheat before mixing with pasta to keep it creamy!

Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, increase the red pepper flakes or sprinkle in cayenne pepper for an extra kick in your Pumpkin Feta Pasta.

Avoiding Clumps: Make sure to stir the sauce regularly while simmering. This helps prevent clumping of the cheese and ensures a smooth finish.

Adding Greens: Boost nutrition by tossing in fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking; they’ll wilt perfectly into the creamy sauce.

Pumpkin Feta Pasta Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creative side shine by customizing this recipe to fit your tastes and dietary needs!

Add Greens: Stir in spinach or kale for added nutrition and a pop of color; they wilt beautifully into the sauce.
Protein Options: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a heartier dish that’s both filling and satisfying.
Herb Variations: Introduce nutmeg for a warm, comforting vibe or try fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
Cheese Substitutes: Swap feta for creamy blue cheese if you’re craving a bolder flavor, or keep things light and vegetarian with ricotta cheese.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based cream instead of heavy cream, and replace the cheese with a vegan cheese alternative to keep it completely dairy-free.
Extra Creaminess: Add a dollop of cream cheese for an ultra-rich sauce texture that elevates your pumpkin pasta even further.
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to spice things up and enhance the flavor depth.
Nutty Crunch: Instead of using pumpkin seeds, try toasted sunflower seeds or walnuts for added crunch and a different nutty flavor.

And remember, if you’re looking for more delicious dishes to impress your family, don’t forget to check out the yummy Pea Bacon Pasta or the refreshing Lemon Butter Pasta with Ricotta and Spicy Breadcrumbs. Happy cooking!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Feta Pasta

Fridge: Store any leftover Pumpkin Feta Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive its creamy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sauce separately from the pasta in airtight containers. The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before mixing with freshly cooked pasta.

Reheating: When reheating, ensure to add a little liquid (pasta water or cream) to restore creaminess and prevent drying out.

Make-Ahead Tip: If preparing ahead for busy nights, the pumpkin sauce can be made and refrigerated as noted, making weeknight meals a breeze!

Pumpkin Feta Pasta Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin, look for a good-quality canned pumpkin puree. Ensure it’s labeled “100% pure pumpkin” with no added ingredients like sugar or spices. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to use fresh pumpkin, opt for small, sweet varieties like sugar pumpkins. Choose one that is firm, has a smooth skin, and feels heavy for its size.

What’s the best way to store leftover Pumpkin Feta Pasta?
Simply store any leftover Pumpkin Feta Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. I recommend adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive its creamy texture!

Can I freeze Pumpkin Feta Pasta?
Very! For freezing, it’s best to separate the sauce from the pasta. Store the pumpkin sauce in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove. After reheating, mix it with freshly cooked pasta, adding a bit of liquid to achieve desired creaminess.

Why did my sauce turn out clumpy?
If your sauce becomes clumpy, it might be due to cooking it over too high of heat or not stirring it enough. To fix this, you can add a bit of reserved pasta water while gently stirring until it smooths out. Make sure to keep the heat low and stir regularly while simmering—the secret to a silky sauce!

Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version of Pumpkin Feta Pasta, substitute heavy cream with a plant-based cream, and swap the feta cheese for a vegan alternative like tofu ricotta or a store-bought vegan feta. This allows you to enjoy the comforting flavors without any animal products.

Can I add protein to this dish?
The more the merrier! You can easily incorporate protein into your Pumpkin Feta Pasta. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed sausage make excellent additions. If you’re looking for a vegetarian protein option, consider adding chickpeas or white beans to make the dish even heartier.