Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta (Print Version)

A cozy autumn pasta dish blending pumpkin puree with garlic, cream, and warming spices for the perfect seasonal comfort food.

# Ingredients:

01 - 8 oz (225g) fettuccine or favorite pasta
02 - 1 cup (240g) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
03 - 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
04 - 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
06 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
08 - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
09 - Salt and pepper to taste
10 - Fresh parsley or sage, chopped for garnish
11 - Toasted pumpkin seeds for topping (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
02 - In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
03 - Stir in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
04 - Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
05 - Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
06 - Divide the pasta among serving plates. Garnish with chopped parsley or sage, and sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds for extra texture if desired.

# Notes:

01 - This seasonal pasta dish combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce for a comforting autumn meal.