Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that captures the essence of fall, then this Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe is just what you need! Imagine a creamy, rich sauce that hugs every strand of pasta, filling your kitchen with the warm aromas of garlic and fresh sage. This recipe has become one of my favorites for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. It’s simple to whip up yet feels special enough to impress anyone at your table.

With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and less than an hour to prepare, this pumpkin pasta sauce is perfect for those evenings when you want comfort food without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing a meal with loved ones, this recipe will surely bring smiles!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Pumpkin Pasta Sauce comes together in under an hour—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
• Creamy Goodness: The use of coconut milk makes it incredibly creamy without any dairy, making it suitable for everyone!
• Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh sage and garlic elevate this dish, giving it a delightful aroma and taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavor, making it an ideal meal for the whole family.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch! It stores well in the fridge or freezer for easy future meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This recipe calls for items that are easy to find and packed with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

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!)
• 3-4 Cloves of Garlic, minced
• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1 Teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 Teaspoon Paprika
• 1/4 Teaspoon Cinnamon

Variations

One of the best things about this pumpkin pasta sauce is its flexibility! You can easily switch up ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas to try:

• Add Some Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the simmering step for added nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your sauce.
• Swap Out the Herbs: If fresh sage isn’t available, try thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Boost the Protein: Toss in some cooked chickpeas or lentils to make this dish even heartier.

How to Make Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by heating your olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add in your diced onion and minced garlic along with the fresh sage. Sauté these fragrant ingredients together until they become soft and aromatic, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial because cooking them releases their natural sweetness, adding depth to your sauce.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Once your onion and garlic are ready, pour in the pumpkin puree and full fat coconut milk. Sprinkle in salt, paprika, and cinnamon as well. Stir everything together on medium heat for a few minutes until it’s well mixed. The combination of pumpkin and coconut creates such a delightful creaminess that you’ll fall in love with!

Step 3: Let It Simmer

Cover your pan and let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 25-30 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom. This slow cooking allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

While your sauce simmers away, boil water in another pot for your gluten-free pasta. Follow package instructions until al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes depending on what type you’re using.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your pasta is cooked, drain it well before adding it directly into your creamy pumpkin sauce. Toss everything together gently so that each piece of pasta is completely coated in that luscious sauce.

And there you have it—the perfect Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Pasta Sauce can be a delightful experience, and these pro tips will help you elevate your dish even further!

• Use fresh sage for better flavor: Fresh herbs can make a world of difference in your dishes. They add vibrant flavor and aroma that dried herbs simply can’t match.
• Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thinner sauce, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or additional coconut milk. This allows you to customize the sauce to your liking.
• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to play around with spices like nutmeg or black pepper. These can enhance the warmth and depth of your sauce, making it even more comforting.
• Make it ahead of time: This sauce stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Preparing it ahead makes weeknight dinners a breeze!
• Pair with different pasta shapes: While fettuccine is a great choice, this sauce works wonderfully with other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni. The choice of pasta can change the overall experience of the dish!

How to Serve Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe

Serving Pumpkin Pasta Sauce is all about presentation and complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the sauce.
• Toasted pumpkin seeds: These provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Simple yet satisfying, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness and crispiness from roasted Brussels sprouts create a lovely contrast with the sweet pumpkin flavor.
• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing palate cleanser and brightens up your meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only adds color but also boosts nutrition, making your meal wholesome and balanced.

With these serving suggestions and tips, your Pumpkin Pasta Sauce will be sure to impress everyone at the table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Pasta Sauce is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch at once and enjoy it throughout the week or save it for those busy nights when you need something quick and comforting.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sauce to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the sauce to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the sauce cool down, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Add a splash of coconut milk if the sauce is too thick after reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this tasty recipe!

Can I make this Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses coconut milk instead of dairy. Enjoy it guilt-free!

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

When stored properly, this sauce lasts up to 4 days in the fridge, making it great for meal prep!

Can I use a different type of pasta with this Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe?

Yes! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, whether gluten-free or not. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I serve with Pumpkin Pasta Sauce?

This sauce pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even on its own as a hearty dish!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pumpkin Pasta Sauce! It’s a warm hug in a bowl that captures all the cozy vibes of fall. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, I’m sure you’ll love every creamy bite. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and feel free to share your creations! Happy cooking!