Description
A creamy, savory one-pot pumpkin pasta bake that comes together in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting meal without the stress.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or penne
- 1 can (15 oz) 100% pure pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente (8-10 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup of starchy pasta water before draining.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or the same pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and dried sage, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Reduce heat to low. Add pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and broth to the skillet. Whisk until smooth.
- Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add reserved pasta water if too thick.
- Remove skillet from heat. Stir in ricotta cheese and half of the Parmesan until melted and incorporated.
- Add drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Top with remaining Parmesan and serve immediately. Optional: Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes for a crispy top.
Notes
Ensure you use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. If ricotta is watery, drain it in a cheesecloth for 10 minutes before using. Remove pan from heat before adding cheese to prevent graininess. This dish does not freeze well due to the dairy content.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 420
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 52
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 18
Keywords: pumpkin pasta, one pot dinner, quick weeknight meals, creamy pasta, fall recipes, comfort food, 20 minute dinner