As the leaves change color and a crisp breeze fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, creamy dish to celebrate the season. One evening, while searching for a way to use the pumpkin puree tucked away in my pantry, I stumbled upon an irresistible creation: Pumpkin Feta Pasta. With its smooth blend of earthy pumpkin and tangy feta, this dish quickly became my go-to for cozy weeknight dinners. It’s magic happens in just under 30 minutes, striking the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity.
Whether you find yourself hosting friends or just craving a delicious bowl of pasta, this Pumpkin Feta Pasta delivers on all fronts. It’s the ultimate comfort food, easily customizable with fresh herbs and spices, making it a hit with both family and guests. Join me as I guide you through crafting this delightful dish that celebrates the flavors of fall!
Why is Pumpkin Feta Pasta your new favorite?
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Creamy Comfort: The blend of pumpkin and feta creates a rich, velvety sauce that clings to your pasta with every bite.
Seasonal Twist: Celebrate fall flavors with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin, making every spoonful a nostalgic delight.
Customizable Goodness: Add your favorite proteins or greens, ensuring everyone can enjoy a tailored plate.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re serving family or entertaining friends, this dish impresses all with its unique yet comforting taste.
Pumpkin Feta Pasta Ingredients
• Discover the essential ingredients for a cozy autumn dish!
For the Pasta
- Pasta – 1 pound (penne, rigatoni, or preferred shape); provides structure and base for the dish.
For the Creamy Sauce
- Pumpkin Puree – 1 (15-ounce) can; adds creaminess and a sweet balance to the sauce; avoid pumpkin pie filling.
- Feta Cheese – 4 ounces, crumbled; offers tangy saltiness that complements the creamy sauce.
- Heavy Cream – 1/2 cup; contributes to the velvety texture of the sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese – 1/4 cup, grated; enhances flavor and richness in the sauce.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced; adds aromatic depth.
- Olive Oil – 1/4 cup; for sautéing and flavor.
- Fresh Sage – 1/4 cup chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried); offers earthy notes that complement the pumpkin.
- Red Pepper Flakes – 1/4 teaspoon (optional); adds a hint of spice.
- Salt and Black Pepper – To taste; essential for flavoring the sauce.
For Toppings
- Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas) – 1/4 cup, toasted, for garnish; adds crunch and visual appeal.
- Butter – 2 tablespoons; adds richness when drizzled over the pasta.
- Onion – 1 small, finely chopped; provides sweetness and depth to the sauce.
For Adjusting Consistency
- Vegetable Broth/Pasta Water – 1/2 cup reserved; used to adjust sauce consistency for your perfect Pumpkin Feta Pasta.
How to Make Pumpkin Feta Pasta
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Heat oil: In a skillet over medium heat, pour in 1/4 cup of olive oil. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it turns translucent and fragrant.
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Sauté garlic: Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh sage to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently until the garlic becomes aromatic but not burnt.
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Add pumpkin: Mix in a 15-ounce can of pumpkin puree, stirring occasionally for about 2-3 minutes. This helps the pumpkin warm up and meld with the other flavors.
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Incorporate cream: Pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Then, gradually add in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and the mixture is well combined.
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Season the sauce: Taste your creamy sauce and season generously with salt, black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if desired). Let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Cook pasta: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of your favorite pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente.
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Reserve water: Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water to adjust your sauce’s consistency later. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to combine, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated in that luscious sauce.
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Adjust consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired creaminess. Mix in half of the crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor.
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Finish with butter: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the pasta and give it another gentle toss. Serve hot, garnished with the remaining feta cheese and 1/4 cup of toasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
Optional: Drizzle with a little extra olive oil before serving for an added layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Feta Pasta
Fridge: Store leftover Pumpkin Feta Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the creamy texture, avoid storing the pasta with the sauce.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the creamy sauce separately from the pasta. It can stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat the sauce gently when ready to serve.
Reheating: When reheating, warm the pasta and sauce separately, then combine. Adding a splash of reserved pasta water can help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy Pumpkin Feta Pasta any night of the week!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Feta Pasta components are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can make the creamy sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its rich flavor. For the best results, wait to cook the pasta until the day you’re ready to serve, as it tastes best fresh! When you are ready to enjoy this comforting dish, reheat the sauce over low heat, prepare the pasta until al dente, then toss them together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the consistency. You’ll have a cozy meal ready in no time!
Pumpkin Feta Pasta Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your dish for every occasion or dietary need.
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Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage for a heartier, satisfying meal. These options bring extra flavor and texture to each bite.
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Green Goodness: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last few cooking minutes to brighten up your pasta while boosting nutrients. It’s an easy way to add vibrant colors and freshness!
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Vegan Twist: Substitute heavy cream with plant-based cream and use vegan feta cheese for a delicious dairy-free version. Enjoy all the creaminess and rich flavors without compromising your dietary choices.
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Spice it Up: Enhance the flavor profile with diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an exciting kick. This twist will appeal to those who love a bit of heat in their dishes.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate toasted walnuts or pecans instead of pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch and added depth of flavor. The nuttiness balances beautifully with the creamy sauce.
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Herbaceous Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for a fresh and fragrant finish. Each herb brings its own personality to the dish, making it uniquely yours.
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Pumpkin Spice Surprise: For a festive touch, sprinkle in a dash of pumpkin spice along with the other seasonings. This subtle hint captures the essence of fall while complementing the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
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Cheesy Delight: Elevate the creaminess by adding cream cheese or ricotta into the sauce. This addition creates an ultra-rich texture that’s extra comforting and indulgent.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Feta Pasta?
As the vibrant flavors of fall envelop us, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your meal experience.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted with butter and garlic, it’s a savory complement that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Simple Arugula Salad: The peppery freshness of arugula adds a bright contrast, balancing the rich pasta and enhancing the overall taste.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized and nutty, roasted Brussels bring a hearty crunch that matches the comforting creaminess of the dish.
- Sage Infused Olive Oil: A drizzle of this fragrant oil over the pasta will deepen its earthy flavor while echoing the fresh sage used in the recipe.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: Its effervescence and touch of sweetness perfectly cut through the richness of the pasta, making it a refreshing drink choice.
Treat yourself to a cozy evening with these pairings that not only balance the flavors but create a meal that warms the heart and delights the palate!
Helpful Tricks for Pumpkin Feta Pasta
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Roast the Pumpkin: For an enriched flavor, consider roasting the pumpkin before pureeing. It brings out a deeper sweetness that elevates your Pumpkin Feta Pasta.
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Mind the Garlic: Avoid overcooking the garlic to prevent bitterness. Sauté it just until fragrant for the best aromatic flavor in the sauce.
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Properly Prepare Fresh Pumpkin: If using fresh pumpkin, ensure it’s well-prepared and cooked until tender for a smooth texture and delightful taste in your dish.
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Adjust Sauce Consistency Gradually: When adding reserved pasta water, do so gradually to achieve the perfect creaminess without thinning the sauce too much.
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Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Be generous with salt and black pepper; they’re essential for enhancing the overall flavors of your Pumpkin Feta Pasta.
Pumpkin Feta Pasta Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The latter often contains added sugars and spices that can alter the intended flavor of your Pumpkin Feta Pasta.
How should I store leftover Pumpkin Feta Pasta?
To maintain its creamy texture, store any leftover Pumpkin Feta Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to separate the sauce from the pasta if you have the option, as this helps prevent it from becoming too thick and clumpy.
Can I freeze the Pumpkin Feta Pasta?
Yes, you can! For optimal results, freeze the creamy sauce separately from the pasta. Place the sauce in a sealed container or a freezer bag, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the sauce in the fridge overnight and gently reheat it on the stove, adding a bit of reserved pasta water for creaminess.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce ends up thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of the reserved pasta water gradually, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. This not only thins the sauce but also enriches its flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Pumpkin Feta Pasta is vegetarian-friendly, making it a delightful option for those avoiding meat. If you have allergies, be aware of the ingredients like feta cheese and heavy cream. You can easily make it dairy-free by substituting with plant-based cream and using vegan feta cheese for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
Creamy Pumpkin Feta Pasta for Cozy Fall Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, pour in 1/4 cup of olive oil. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it turns translucent and fragrant.
- Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh sage to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently until the garlic becomes aromatic but not burnt.
- Mix in a 15-ounce can of pumpkin puree, stirring occasionally for about 2-3 minutes to warm it up and meld with other flavors.
- Pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Gradually add in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and well combined.
- Taste your creamy sauce and season generously with salt, black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if desired). Let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add 1 pound of your favorite pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later. Drain pasta and set aside.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to combine, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water gradually until reaching the desired creaminess. Mix in half of the crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the pasta and toss gently. Serve hot, garnished with remaining feta cheese and 1/4 cup of toasted pumpkin seeds.