Description
A velvety, savory pumpkin cream sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and warm spices. Perfect for fall pasta dishes, weeknight dinners, or a cozy seasonal meal that tastes like autumn in a bowl.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp paprika (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh sage or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant to release its aroma and flavor.
- Add Pumpkin and Liquids: Whisk in pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and broth until the mixture is smooth and well combined with no lumps.
- Season and Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and optional paprika to enhance the sauce’s depth and warmth.
- Simmer Sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a creamy consistency perfect for coating pasta.
- Toss with Pasta & Garnish: Toss the finished sauce with your choice of cooked pasta and garnish with freshly chopped sage or parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Substitute cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Pairs well with fettuccine, penne, gnocchi, or cheese-filled ravioli.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired
