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As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, autumn invites us to indulge in its rich and cozy flavors. One dish that perfectly encapsulates this seasonal spirit is Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta. This delightful recipe marries the smooth, velvety texture of heavy cream and the sharp, nutty notes of Parmesan cheese with the gentle sweetness of pumpkin puree. The result is a comforting meal that is not only satisfying but also celebrates the essence of fall.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta

Embrace the flavors of fall with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pumpkin Pasta. This delicious dish combines the velvety richness of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese with the gentle sweetness of pumpkin puree, creating a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Quick to prepare, it makes for an impressive weeknight dinner or festive gathering centerpiece. Discover how easy it is to celebrate autumn in your kitchen with this delectable recipe that nourishes both body and soul.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz pasta of your choice (fettuccine or penne work great)

1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Optional: toasted pumpkin seeds for topping

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain the rest, and set aside.

    Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onion for about 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.

      Make the Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, ground nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined and creamy. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.

        Add Cheese: Gradually incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, a splash at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

          Season It Up: Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Remove from heat.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to ensure every piece is well coated. If needed, add more reserved pasta water for creaminess.

              Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and toasted pumpkin seeds if desired. Enjoy your creamy garlic Parmesan pumpkin pasta warm!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings