Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta (Print Version)

Rich pumpkin Alfredo with fettuccine, Parmesan, and fresh herbs. Perfect balance of creaminess and warm spice.

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta

01 - 8 ounces fettuccine or preferred pasta

→ Sauce

02 - 1 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
03 - 1 cup heavy cream
04 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
06 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
07 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
08 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
09 - Salt, to taste
10 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

11 - Fresh parsley or sage, chopped
12 - Toasted pumpkin seeds (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to the package guidelines until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of cooking water, then drain and set pasta aside.
02 - In a large skillet over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, until aromatic but not browned.
03 - Incorporate pumpkin puree, heavy cream, nutmeg, and cinnamon into the skillet. Stir thoroughly and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, ensuring the mixture becomes smooth and heated throughout.
04 - Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust consistency as needed by stirring in reserved pasta water, a little at a time.
05 - Transfer drained pasta to the skillet. Gently toss to coat every strand evenly with the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
06 - Divide pasta among serving plates. Top with chopped parsley or sage, and if desired, sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds for added texture.
07 - Present the dish hot for optimal creaminess and flavor.

# Notes:

01 - Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency for a silkier finish.
02 - Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture and flavor.