Description
This creamy pumpkin pasta is a comforting and delicious dish perfect for autumn or any time you crave a rich, flavorful meal. Tender rigatoni pasta is coated in a luscious sauce made from pumpkin puree, cream, and a hint of nutmeg, then garnished with fresh Parmesan cheese and parsley for an elegant finish. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy yet impressive recipe to enjoy any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Stir in the pumpkin puree, chicken broth, heavy cream, sour cream, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend all flavors.
- Combine: Add the cooked rigatoni pasta directly into the pumpkin sauce and stir thoroughly to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. Allow the pasta to simmer in the sauce for 2 to 3 minutes so it thickens slightly and absorbs the flavors.
- Serve: Divide the pasta among serving plates, then sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm to enjoy the rich, creamy texture and cozy flavors.
Notes
- Use real pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid added sugars and spices.
- Feel free to substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a milder flavor or to make it vegetarian (omit sour cream or substitute with a dairy-free alternative).
- Adjust nutmeg quantity to taste, as it adds a warm spice that complements the pumpkin.
- For extra richness, add a splash more heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it a little longer before combining with pasta.
