Creamy Pumpkin Pasta is the cozy, comforting dinner your fall evenings have been waiting for. Silky pumpkin puree blends with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan to create a velvety sauce that hugs each bite of pasta perfectly. This dish feels indulgent but is secretly simple, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a quick seasonal gathering with friends.

What makes this pasta so irresistible is its earthy sweetness from the pumpkin, balanced with savory richness. You get all the warmth of fall flavors in under 30 minutes, and with just a handful of ingredients. No need to wait for a holiday—this pasta makes any evening feel special.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pumpkin Pasta

It’s everything you want in a comfort meal: quick, creamy, flavorful, and satisfying. The pumpkin sauce is velvety without being heavy, and it pairs beautifully with any pasta you love. It also reheats like a dream, which means leftovers are just as good the next day. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this pasta delivers every time.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini is perfect for this sauce because the ridges catch all the creamy goodness. But if you love fettuccine or spaghetti, go for it! Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente and reserve a little pasta water to help marry the sauce and noodles perfectly.

Ingredients for the Creamy Pumpkin Pasta

This recipe keeps it simple with a cozy twist. The creamy base comes together in minutes and each ingredient plays a delicious role.

Pasta
Pumpkin puree
Heavy cream
Garlic cloves
Parmesan cheese
Butter
Olive oil
Nutmeg
Salt and black pepper
Fresh sage or thyme (optional)

How To Make the Creamy Pumpkin Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil together. Add the minced garlic and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Sauce

Add the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to the skillet. Stir well until the mixture is creamy and heated through, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce. Toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with more Parmesan and fresh sage or thyme if using. Serve hot.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Pumpkin Pasta

Creamy Pumpkin Pasta is best served fresh off the stove, steaming and coated in luscious sauce. It makes a wonderful weeknight meal or an easy option for guests. This dish comfortably feeds 4 people as a main course.

For storing, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s smoothness.

What to Serve With Creamy Pumpkin Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Crispy garlic bread is a no-brainer with any creamy pasta dish.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their crisp, caramelized edges pair wonderfully with the silky pumpkin sauce.

Apple Walnut Salad

A light, crunchy salad cuts through the richness beautifully.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Add protein and crunch without overpowering the pasta.

Sauteed Kale with Lemon

The bright tang of lemon helps balance the sweetness of the pumpkin.

Crispy Prosciutto

A few salty, crispy slices on top of the pasta take this dish to another level.

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

Make it a cozy two-course dinner by pairing with these Herby Chicken Meatball Bowls.

Classic Caprese Salad

For a lighter start, this Classic Caprese Salad is always refreshing.

Want More Pasta Ideas with Creamy Comfort?

If you love this Creamy Pumpkin Pasta, here are more cozy and flavor-packed pastas you might enjoy:

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a tangy, savory combo.
One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni when you want hearty and easy.
Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce for a high-protein twist.
Tuscan Chicken Pasta full of sun-dried tomato goodness.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for a bold, spicy take.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest pasta board so you can come back to it when you need a quick fall dinner idea.

Let me know in the comments if you made any tweaks! Did you add spinach, swap the cream, or toss in some chili flakes?

I love seeing your variations. Don’t forget to follow along for more daily recipe ideas on Janet Dishes on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Creamy Pumpkin Pasta is the kind of meal that makes autumn feel like magic. It’s rich yet light, cozy but quick, and absolutely delicious. The next time you need something comforting in a hurry, this bowl of fall-flavored pasta will have your back.