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The journey to a delightful pasta sauce begins with the careful sautéing of garlic. This step is crucial for developing a rich, aromatic base that elevates the flavor profile of the entire sauce. To sauté garlic effectively, follow these tips:

Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce

Discover the comforting taste of autumn with Pumpkin Delight Pasta Sauce, a creamy and flavorful twist that takes your pasta to new heights. This delightful recipe highlights pure pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and a blend of aromatic spices like nutmeg and sage, creating a warm, indulgent dish perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings. Dive into this seasonal favorite, and let each bite bring the essence of fall to your table, celebrating warmth and togetherness.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup canned pumpkin puree (ensure it's not pumpkin pie filling)

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon dried sage (or alternatively, use 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 pound pasta (choose either fettuccine or penne for optimal results)

Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    - Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the pasta of your choice and cook according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture.

      - Reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water (you’ll use this later), then drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

        Make the Sauce:

          - In the meantime, place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Wait until the oil shimmers, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.

            - Reduce the heat to low and incorporate the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, and dried sage into the skillet. Stir everything together until smooth and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.

              Add Parmesan:

                - Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing continuously until it is fully melted and the sauce has reached a creamy consistency. If you find the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired sauce thickness. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

                  Combine Pasta and Sauce:

                    - Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy pumpkin sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is generously coated. If the sauce is still too thick, incorporate more reserved pasta water as needed.

                      Serve:

                        - Plate the creamy pumpkin pasta into individual serving bowls or plates. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top if desired. Serve immediately for a delightful and warming meal that celebrates the flavors of fall!

                          Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings