Name: Savory Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage for Cozy Evenings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 12 oz Penne Pasta (Can substitute with rigatoni or fusilli); Salt (For seasoning pasta water); 1 tbsp Olive Oil (Can substitute with vegetable oil); 1 lb Sweet Italian Sausage (Can use chicken sausage for a lighter option); 3 cloves Garlic, minced (Fresh is best); 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Purée (Fresh pumpkin can be roasted and puréed); ½ cup Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth (For vegetarian version, use vegetable broth); ½ cup Heavy Cream (Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative); ¼ tsp Ground Nutmeg (Optional but recommended for flavor); Salt & Pepper (To taste); ½ cup Grated Parmesan (Pecorino Romano can add a bolder flavor); Chopped Parsley (For garnish); Red Pepper Flakes (For a touch of heat)

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As autumn arrives and the air turns crisp, I can’t help but crave something cozy and satisfying. That’s where this Creamy Pumpkin & Sausage Pasta comes into play, a dish that captures the essence of fall in every bite. In just 25 minutes, you’ll transform humble ingredients into a restaurant-quality comfort food experience at home. The marriage of rich pumpkin purée and savory sausage creates an irresistible sauce that clings to pasta, making it the perfect answer to chilly evenings. Plus, it’s a quick win for those busy weeknights when you still want a gourmet touch on your table. Ready to warm up your kitchen with this delicious recipe? Let’s dive in!

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Quick cooking time: In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this comforting dish. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Savory flavors: The blend of pumpkin and sausage creates a uniquely delicious sauce that is both hearty and satisfying, inviting you to savor every bite.

Versatile options: Feel free to adjust ingredients or swap sweet Italian sausage for spicy or even go vegetarian with lentils—I promise, the flavor stays rich and delightful!

Texture contrast: Enjoy a delightful combination of creamy sauce and al dente pasta that clings beautifully to every single bite.

Crowd-pleasing appeal: This dish is bound to impress your family and friends, making it an ideal choice for cozy gatherings. Pair it with an arugula salad to balance out the rich flavors, and you’ll have a culinary hit on your hands!

Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create this heartwarming dish!

For the Pasta

Penne Pasta (12 oz) – The perfect shape to hold onto the creamy sauce; you can substitute with rigatoni or fusilli for a fun twist.
Salt – Essential for seasoning the pasta water; it enhances the overall flavor of your dish.

For the Sauce

Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Ideal for sautéing the sausage and adding a touch of healthy fat; feel free to swap with vegetable oil if needed.
Sweet Italian Sausage (1 lb) – Offers that savory flavor that pairs exquisitely with pumpkin; consider chicken sausage for a lighter option!
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Provides aromatic goodness; fresh is best, but powdered can work in a pinch.
Canned Pumpkin Purée (1 cup) – Creates a creamy base with natural sweetness; fresh pumpkin can be roasted and puréed for a homemade touch.
Chicken Broth (½ cup) or Vegetable Broth – Adds depth to the sauce; go for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Heavy Cream (½ cup) – Brings rich creaminess; use coconut cream for a fantastic dairy-free alternative.
Ground Nutmeg (¼ tsp) – Offers warm spice notes; it’s optional but incredibly recommended for enhancing flavor depth.
Salt & Pepper – Vital for seasoning to taste and balancing flavors.
Grated Parmesan (½ cup) – Infuses salty, umami goodness that melds beautifully in the sauce; Pecorino Romano can add an even bolder flavor.

Optional Toppings

Chopped Parsley – Adds a fresh brightness to the dish; a beautiful garnish is always a pleasure!
Red Pepper Flakes – Give a little kick if you crave a touch of heat!

Happy cooking, and get ready for a flavorful journey with this Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 12 ounces of penne pasta and cook until just al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water to help adjust the sauce later, then drain the pasta and set it aside for the next step.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
In a large skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 pound of sweet Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. Allow it to brown for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely caramelized and cooked through. You want it to be golden and fragrant, enhancing the base flavor of your Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage.

Step 3: Aromatics and Pumpkin Purée
Add 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet with the browned sausage, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, carefully stir in 1 cup of canned pumpkin purée, followed by ½ cup of broth (chicken or vegetable), and ½ cup of heavy cream. Season with ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Allow this mixture to simmer on low for 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
After the sauce has simmered and thickened, add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Toss the pasta gently to coat it evenly with the creamy pumpkin sauce, allowing the pasta to absorb the rich flavors. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, mixing thoroughly. If you want a creamier texture, gradually add in some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is well combined and heated through, taste the Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, generously topped with more grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of chopped parsley for freshness, and a dash of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, if desired. Enjoy this inviting fall dish!

Expert Tips for Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage

Season Generously: Always salt your pasta water and the sauce well; this enhances the overall flavor of your Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage.
Quality Sausage Matters: Using high-quality sausage will deliver richer flavors—avoid low-grade varieties to ensure the best taste.
Adjusting Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes. If it’s too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until just right.
Flavor Boost with Nutmeg: Don’t skip adding nutmeg; it beautifully complements the pumpkin and brings warmth to the dish.
Perfect for Leftovers: Reheat any leftovers gently, adding a splash of broth to prevent drying out while warming your comforting pasta.

How to Store and Freeze Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Before serving, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to retain creaminess.

Freezer: If you want to freeze your dish, spoon the cooled pasta with pumpkin & sausage into a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months.

Thawing: To enjoy your frozen pasta, transfer it to the fridge the night before to thaw overnight. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a little broth to loosen the sauce.

Reheating: When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid separation of the creamy sauce. Stir occasionally for the best results.

What to Serve with Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage

Cozying up around the dinner table is even better when you have the perfect accompaniments for your creamy pasta delight.

Arugula Salad: A light and peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta, brightening each bite.
Crusty Baguette: Serve warm, crusty bread to mop up the creamy sauce. Each piece is a vessel for flavor that your family will love.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlic-infused goodness complements the savory elements of the dish beautifully. It’s a classic pairing that never fails to satisfy!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience with a touch of sweetness.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider provides a comforting, seasonal drink that harmonizes wonderfully with the flavors of fall.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a velvety chocolate mousse rounds off the meal with a touch of indulgence, creating a delightful contrast to the savory pasta.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine beautifully complements the dish, enhancing the savory notes of the sausage and adding depth to your meal.
Pumpkin Pie: Embrace the cozy vibes with a slice of pumpkin pie for dessert, capturing the season’s flavors in a sweet finish that ties everything together.

Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage Variations

Customize your dish and explore the delightful possibilities that this creamy pasta offers!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich, non-dairy alternative that’s equally satisfying. The coconut adds a sweet undertone that beautifully complements the pumpkin.
Vegetarian Delight: Replace the sweet Italian sausage with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a hearty, plant-based option. This not only reduces the calories but also embraces earthy flavors.
Spicy Twist: For those who enjoy a little kick, switch sweet sausage for spicy Italian sausage. The heat mingling with the creamy sauce creates an exciting flavor profile that’s sure to wake up your taste buds.
Nutty Flavor Boost: Add a tablespoon of nutty tahini or almond butter to the sauce for a unique twist. This addition will deepen the flavor and add creaminess that pairs well with pumpkin.
Extra Greens: Toss in a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. The greens will wilt beautifully, adding vibrant color and a nutrient boost.
Alternative Pasta Shapes: Switch up the texture by using farfalle or orecchiette instead of penne. Each shape holds the sauce differently, enhancing your dining experience!
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like sage or thyme into the sauce for an aromatic touch. They pair wonderfully with pumpkin, bringing an even warmer, homey feel to your plate.
Layered Cheese: Instead of just Parmesan, try a mix of Gruyère and Fontina for an extra creamy and flavorful finish. The meltiness will add a lovely touch that elevates the dish further.

Feel inspired? Check out our delicious Egg Macaroni Pasta or explore our Pea Bacon Pasta for more comforting recipes that deliver on flavor!

Make Ahead Options

These Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage dishes are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the creamy pumpkin sauce up to 3 days in advance, allowing all those flavors to develop beautifully. Simply sauté the sausage and garlic, then stir in the pumpkin purée, broth, cream, and spices; let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. The pasta can be cooked and stored separately for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to maintain creaminess, and toss it with freshly cooked pasta. Enjoy a comforting, gourmet meal with minimal work!

Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage Recipe FAQs

What kind of pasta should I use for this recipe?
For this recipe, I recommend using penne pasta, as its tubular shape perfectly holds onto the creamy sauce. However, you can absolutely substitute it with rigatoni or fusilli for a delightful twist!

How should I store leftovers?
Store your leftover Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce creamy and avoid drying it out.

Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! To freeze, let your Pasta with Pumpkin & Sausage cool completely, then spoon it into a freezer-safe container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring in a bit of broth to help restore the sauce’s creaminess.

What if my sauce turns out too thick?
If you find your sauce is a bit too thick, don’t worry! Simply add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. This allows you to adjust the sauce without compromising the flavor!

Are there any dietary modifications I can make?
Definitely! If you’re looking to make this dish vegetarian, swap the sweet Italian sausage for lentils and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option. For those with allergies, always check ingredient labels and consider using gluten-free pasta if needed.

How can I tell if my pumpkin is fresh enough?
When using canned pumpkin purée, make sure to check that it’s 100% pumpkin with no added sugars. If using fresh pumpkin, choose ones that are heavy for their size and free from dark spots or blemishes. A great indicator of freshness is a firm skin.