There’s something about the combination of creamy pumpkin, fragrant sage, and a touch of spice that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. This Creamy Pumpkin & Sage Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish—simple to make, wonderfully satisfying, and packed with autumn vibes. Whether you’re after a quick weeknight dinner or a cosy meal to share, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Let’s dive in!
What You’ll Need:
- 200g pasta (pick your favourite—penne, spaghetti, or fusilli work well)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups pumpkin puree (mashed roasted pumpkin is ideal)
- ½ cup coconut milk or double cream (for a luxurious texture)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional but highly recommended)
- 1 tsp dried sage
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Chilli flakes (optional, if you like a bit of heat)
Allergen Note: This dish contains gluten (from the pasta) and dairy (if using Parmesan or cream). Feel free to adjust for dietary needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook Your Pasta Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, toss in your pasta and cook it to al dente according to the packet instructions. Before draining, save a cup of that starchy pasta water—it’s liquid gold for your sauce. Then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes, just until it turns golden and fragrant. Don’t let it burn—it’s all about that perfect balance of flavour.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce Lower the heat and stir in the pumpkin puree, coconut milk (or cream), and dried sage. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of chilli flakes if you’re in the mood for some warmth. Let it simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until the sauce becomes silky and thick.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce Add your cooked pasta straight into the pan with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in that creamy, pumpkin goodness. If the sauce feels a bit thick, loosen it up with a splash of your reserved pasta water. Want extra decadence? Stir in the Parmesan at this stage for a rich, cheesy finish.
5. Serve and Enjoy Dish up the pasta into bowls and top with more Parmesan, a sprinkle of black pepper, and a dash of chilli flakes if you fancy. Now all that’s left to do is grab a fork and dig in.
Why You’ll Love It
This dish strikes the perfect balance between comforting and wholesome. The pumpkin puree brings natural sweetness, the coconut milk or cream adds richness, and sage offers that earthy, aromatic depth we all associate with autumn. It’s easy to customise too—skip the Parmesan for a dairy-free version, or swap the coconut milk for double cream if you’re feeling indulgent.
Quick Tip
If you’re using fresh pumpkin, roast it until tender, then mash or blend it into a puree. The roasted flavour adds an extra layer of yum to this dish.
So, whether you’re curled up on the sofa watching your favourite series or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this Creamy Pumpkin & Sage Pasta is sure to impress. It’s proof that good food doesn’t have to be complicated—it just has to make you happy.
Enjoy! 🍂
