Pasta with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce
User Reviews
4.4
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
20 mins
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Servings
2
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Calories
54875 kcal
Pasta with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce
Description
The recipe creates a creamy pumpkin sauce by sautéing minced garlic in butter, then stirring in pumpkin puree and chicken broth. Nutmeg, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and freshly cracked black pepper provide a nuanced spice profile that balances earthiness and mild heat. After simmering, half and half or cream is added to round out the sauce with smoothness. The sauce is combined with al dente pasta, delivering a warm, flavorful meal with contrasting textures of tender pasta and silky sauce.
The garlic's gentle sauté avoids harshness, enhancing the sauce’s aromatic qualities. The pumpkin puree anchors the dish with natural sweetness and a thick, velvety body. Cooking the sauce while the pasta boils ensures optimal timing and temperature for mixing. This pasta suits those seeking a slightly spicy, creamy meal using pantry staples and seasonal pumpkin.
The blend of spices can be adjusted to taste, and salt may be added after tasting depending on broth saltiness. This dish stands on its own but can accompany a green salad or crusty bread for added texture.
Ingredients
- 2 cloves garlic $0.16
- 1 Tbsp butter $0.13
- 1 cup pumpkin $0.78, puree
- 1 cup chicken broth $0.12
- 1/8 tsp nutmeg $0.02
- 1/4 tsp chili powder $0.03
- Pinch cayenne pepper $0.02
- black pepper $0.05, freshly cracked
- 2 Tbsp half and half $0.19, or cream
- 8 oz. pasta $0.70
Instructions
- Begin boiling a large pot of water for your pasta. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and boil until al dente (7-10 minutes). Drain in a colander.
- While waiting for the water to boil, prepare the sauce. Mince two cloves of garlic and add them to a large skillet with one tablespoon of butter. Sauté over medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes, or just until the garlic is soft and fragrant.
- Add the pumpkin purée and chicken broth to the skillet and stir to combine. Add the nutmeg, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and some freshly cracked black pepper. Stir in the spices and let the sauce simmer over medium-low heat while the pasta cooks (about 10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Once the pasta is finished cooking and is draining in a colander, add the half and half or cream to the skillet and stir it into the pumpkin sauce. Taste the sauce and add salt if needed (this will depend on the type of broth you use). Finally, stir the drained pasta in to the sauce and serve.
Notes
- Using broth such as Better Than Bouillon offers a flavorful, economical base for the sauce.
- Chili powder used is a mild, earthy spice blend, not hot ground red pepper, so adjust seasoning if desired.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 2Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 54875 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1Serving | |
| Calories | 548.75kcal | 27% |
| Carbohydrates | 91.4g | 30% |
| Protein | 16.75g | 34% |
| Fat | 13.1g | 20% |
| Sodium | 616.95mg | 26% |
| Fiber | 4.3g | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.4
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