creamy pumpkin alfredo (easy fall pasta) 🎃✨
Brown butter, garlicky pumpkin cream, fettuccine + the CRUNCHY parm panko topping.
20 mins, so decadent. FULL RECIPE BELOW ⬇️
INGREDIENTS
• 8 oz fettuccine
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half n half
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan
• pinch nutmeg, cayenne / red chili powder, red chili flakes
• salt + pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Parmesan Crunch Topping:
• toasted panko breadcrumbs
• parsley, finely chopped
• freshly grated parmesan
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Add butter to a cold pan, melt on medium-low, stir until foamy, golden with brown specks.
2. Meanwhile, cook fettuccine just under al dente, reserve pasta water. Toast panko in a dry pan until golden.
3. To the brown butter, add garlic + pumpkin puree, cook 1 min.
4. Slowly whisk in heavy cream, nutmeg, cayenne, chili flakes, salt + pepper.
5. Turn heat to low, whisk in parmesan until silky and melted.
6. Add pasta + pasta water, toss 3-5 mins until sauce clings.
7. Top with the parm crunch topping + extra parsley. Serve immediately!
Save this for your next fall dinner 🎃🍂✨
#pumpkinrecipes #pumpkinpasta #fallpastarecipes #fallfoodideas #falldinnerrecipes
If you're looking for a comforting and seasonal twist on classic Alfredo pasta, this creamy pumpkin Alfredo recipe is an absolute fall favorite. One of the best parts of this dish is how simple yet indulgent it feels with minimal ingredients and effort. The key is starting with browned butter, which adds a rich, nutty layer that perfectly complements the mild sweetness of pumpkin puree. From my own experience, using fresh garlic and a pinch of warming spices like nutmeg and cayenne enhances the cozy aroma and depth of flavor. The addition of chili flakes provides just the right subtle heat, balancing the richness of the heavy cream and parmesan. I find reserving pasta water is essential to achieve that perfectly silky sauce that clings delightfully to each fettuccine strand. For texture, the parmesan panko topping elevates the dish by adding a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully against the creamy sauce. Toasting panko breadcrumbs until golden in a dry pan beforehand is easy and really amplifies the taste. I also like to garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This recipe is fantastic because it comes together quickly, making it great for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners. Plus, it uses seasonal ingredients like pumpkin which brings the warmth of fall directly to your plate. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this creamy pumpkin Alfredo pasta definitely hits the mark for a cozy, flavorful meal! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can customize by adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added veggies, or swap fettuccine for your favorite pasta shape. Either way, it’s a delicious way to celebrate autumn comfort food with a simple, impressive dish.
🍋❤️