12 oz (340 g) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
1 cup pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional garnish: fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, or toasted pumpkin seeds
Instructions
Cook Pasta : Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare Sauce Base : In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add Pumpkin and Cream : Stir in pumpkin puree, heavy cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook 3–5 minutes until fully heated and slightly thickened.
Incorporate Parmesan : Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Combine with Pasta : Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat evenly in the creamy pumpkin sauce.
Garnish and Serve : Transfer pasta to serving plates. Garnish with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, or toasted pumpkin seeds for a festive touch.