Fusilli with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce: Classic Comfort Food

4.7 (38 reviews)
A plate of fusilli pasta coated in a creamy orange pumpkin sauce topped with fresh green herbs
Prep time : 10 minutes
Cooking Time : 15 minutes
Total Time : 25 minutes
Nutrition : 420 Calories
Difficulty : Easy
Cuisine :

Italian

Category : Pasta

Ingredients :

  • 12 ounces fusilli pasta
  • 1 cup pumpkin purée
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped

Method :

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fusilli according to package directions until al dente.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the pumpkin purée, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg, whisking until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
  4. Fold in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Drain the pasta, reserving a small splash of pasta water, then toss the fusilli directly into the sauce.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped sage.

Recipe Notes :

  • Chef’s Tip: Reserve a tablespoon of the pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick when tossing with the noodles.
  • Variation: Add toasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds on top for a pleasant crunchy texture.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of water to restore consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pumpkin for this sauce?

Yes, use pure pumpkin purée rather than canned pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugar and spices.

What is the best way to reheat this pasta?

Reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat with an extra tablespoon of cream or water to loosen the sauce.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this dish is naturally vegetarian as it relies on cheese and cream for richness.

Why We Love This Recipe ?

Fusilli with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce is a comforting vegetarian dish featuring perfectly al dente corkscrew pasta tossed in a velvety, savory sauce. This meal relies on the natural sweetness of pumpkin purée balanced by aromatic garlic and a hint of earthy sage. It serves as a satisfying and quick dinner option that highlights seasonal flavors without requiring complex techniques. The firm texture of the fusilli captures the rich sauce, ensuring a flavorful bite every time you serve this delightful bowl.

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