Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your heart and fill your belly, this Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe is just what you need! It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a hug, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The rich, creamy sauce made with real pumpkin and fragrant sage is utterly comforting and brings the essence of fall right to your table. Plus, it’s simple enough that even the kids can help out in the kitchen!

What makes this recipe truly special is how it combines wholesome ingredients with incredible flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy seasonal produce while creating a dish that everyone will love. You’ll find yourself making this time and time again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy texture and sweet pumpkin flavor.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch at the start of the week for quick lunches or dinners.
• Rich in flavor: The combination of pumpkin, sage, and spices creates a dish that’s bursting with autumn goodness.
• Vegan-friendly: Enjoy this guilt-free comfort food without any animal products.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful Pumpkin Pasta Sauce. You might already have many of these staples in your pantry!

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add some protein: Toss in cooked chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms for an extra hearty meal.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
• Mix in veggies: Stir in some spinach or kale towards the end for added nutrients and color.
• Change up the herbs: Swap fresh sage for thyme or rosemary to give it a unique twist.

How to Make Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by heating olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic along with the fresh sage. Sauté them for about 3-5 minutes until everything becomes fragrant and the onions are translucent. This step is crucial because it enhances their natural sweetness, forming a lovely base for our sauce.

Step 2: Combine Pumpkin and Spices

Next, pour in the pumpkin puree and coconut milk. Sprinkle in paprika, salt, and cinnamon. Stir everything together on medium heat until well combined. Let this mixture cook for about 5 minutes; you want those flavors to meld beautifully!

Step 3: Let It Simmer

Cover your pan and reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer for about 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering time is where all those amazing flavors deepen and develop!

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

While your sauce simmers away happily, cook your gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain it well. When ready, pour your cooked pasta into the sauce and toss gently until each noodle is fully coated with that creamy pumpkin goodness.

And there you have it! A delicious Pumpkin Pasta Sauce that’s sure to be loved by all at your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe

Creating the perfect pumpkin pasta sauce is all about the little details! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out creamy and delicious every time.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh sage brings a vibrant flavor that dried herbs simply can’t match. If you have an herb garden, feel free to use whatever you have on hand!

• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, use less coconut milk or let it simmer longer. This allows the flavors to concentrate and creates a richer texture.

• Taste as you go: Seasoning is key! Taste your sauce as it cooks to adjust the salt, spice, and sweetness to your liking. This way, you can make it uniquely yours.

• Pair with the right pasta: While gluten-free fettucine works wonderfully, any pasta shape that holds sauce well (like penne or rotini) will enhance your dining experience.

• Make it ahead of time: This sauce can be made in larger batches and stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for later use. It’s perfect for meal prep!

How to Serve Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe

Serving this pumpkin pasta sauce is an opportunity to get creative! With its beautiful color and rich flavor, there are plenty of ways to present this dish that will impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the richness of the sauce.
• Toasted pumpkin seeds: These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the sauce.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges of roasted Brussels sprouts offer a savory contrast to the sweet pumpkin sauce.
• Garlic Bread: A classic side that’s perfect for scooping up any extra sauce left on your plate!
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta. Use seasonal veggies for added crunch and flavor.
• Steamed Broccoli: This simple side adds color and nutrients while providing a nice texture alongside the creamy pasta.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delightful Pumpkin Pasta Sauce! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Pasta Sauce is not only delightful for a cozy dinner but also excellent for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, making your weeknight meals a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the sauce into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container or bag, as the sauce will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, place the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe.

Can I make this pumpkin pasta sauce recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly, using coconut milk for creaminess and avoiding any animal-derived ingredients.

How long does this pumpkin pasta sauce recipe last in the fridge?

When stored correctly in an airtight container, this pumpkin pasta sauce can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Perfect for meal prep!

What can I serve with my pumpkin pasta sauce?

This creamy pumpkin sauce pairs beautifully with gluten-free pasta, but you can also use it as a topping for roasted vegetables or as a base for grain bowls!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

While canned pumpkin puree is convenient and consistent, you can certainly use fresh pumpkin. Just be sure to cook and puree it until smooth before adding it to your sauce.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Pumpkin Pasta Sauce Recipe! It’s rich, creamy, and brings all the cozy autumn vibes right to your table. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, I’m sure you’ll love how easy and satisfying this dish is. Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts—I’d love to hear how it turns out!