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! It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making it one of my go-to meals when the leaves start to change. This sauce not only highlights the wonderful taste of pumpkin but also brings together fresh sage and garlic for a truly comforting experience. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe is simple enough for any occasion yet delicious enough to impress your guests.

What I love most about this dish is how quickly it comes together. In less than an hour, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve that everyone will adore!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, perfect for those busy evenings when time is tight.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love pasta, and they will definitely enjoy the creamy pumpkin flavor!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and fresh sage creates a warm and inviting taste that screams comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the best part—these ingredients are simple and wholesome. You likely already have some of them in your pantry! Let’s gather everything you need for this delightful Pumpkin Pasta Sauce.

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! I freeze herbs from my summer garden.)
• 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 wonderful things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some ideas to customize your Pumpkin Pasta Sauce:

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chickpeas or lentils for extra protein and heartiness.
• Creamy Twist: For an even creamier sauce, feel free to add more coconut milk or a splash of your favorite plant-based cream.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary if sage isn’t your favorite.

How to Make Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by cooking diced onion, minced garlic, and sage with olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir them around for a few minutes until fragrant. Sautéing these ingredients helps release their natural flavors and sets a delicious foundation for your sauce.

Step 2: Add the Main Ingredients

Next, pour in the pumpkin puree along with full-fat coconut milk, paprika, salt, and cinnamon. Stir everything together on medium heat for just a few minutes. This step is key as it allows all those beautiful flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 3: Let It Simmer

Cover your pan and let the mixture simmer on low for about 25-30 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally! This simmering time helps thicken the sauce while letting all those yummy spices infuse into every bite.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While your sauce simmers away, cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Once it’s done, drain it well. When your pasta is al dente, pour it into the sauce and stir until completely coated! This final step ensures that every strand of pasta gets enveloped in that creamy goodness.

And there you have it—a delightful Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe that warms both body and soul! Enjoy this dish with loved ones or savor it solo—it’s sure to bring comfort no matter how you serve it!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe

Making this Pumpkin Pasta Sauce is a breeze, but these tips will help you elevate it to perfection!

• Use Fresh Sage: Fresh sage adds a wonderful aroma and flavor that dried herbs simply can’t match. It truly enhances the dish, giving it that cozy fall vibe.
• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick for your liking, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or water. This helps maintain that creamy texture while ensuring it coats the pasta beautifully.
• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices! A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of red pepper flakes can add depth and warmth to the sauce.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before serving! Adjusting salt or spices according to your preference ensures that every bite is deliciously tailored to your palate.
• Make It Ahead: This sauce stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make a big batch and enjoy quick dinners throughout the week!

How to Serve Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe

Serving this delightful pumpkin pasta sauce is an opportunity to get creative! Here are some ideas to make your dish stand out.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley over each serving adds a pop of color and freshness, complementing the rich flavors of the sauce.
• Toasted Pumpkin Seeds: For an extra crunch, top with toasted pumpkin seeds. They provide a lovely texture contrast and tie in beautifully with the pumpkin theme.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with pasta dishes, making it a beloved side option. It’s great for soaking up any leftover sauce!
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized sprouts bring a delightful bitterness that balances the creamy sweetness of the pumpkin sauce. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for best results.
• Simple Arugula Salad: A fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil adds brightness to your meal. The peppery notes cut through the richness of the pasta sauce beautifully.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli makes for a nutritious side that adds color and a satisfying crunch. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle some salt for extra flavor.

Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to share how your Pumpkin Pasta Sauce turned out! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Pasta Sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and have a delicious meal ready to go whenever you need it. Here’s how to store and enjoy your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sauce to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

Freezing

• Let the sauce cool down before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

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

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe? Here are some answers!

Can I use pumpkin puree instead of fresh pumpkin?

Absolutely! This Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe is designed around using canned pumpkin puree for convenience and consistency in flavor. Just ensure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling.

How can I make this Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses coconut milk instead of any dairy products. Feel free to adjust seasoning to suit your taste!

Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?

Certainly! Feel free to experiment by adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Just sauté them with the onion and garlic at the beginning.

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

In the fridge, this sauce will last about 4-5 days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe as comforting and delightful as I do! It’s creamy, rich, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect dish for those cozy fall nights. Enjoy making it, sharing it with loved ones, and savoring every bite. Happy cooking!