Description
This creamy pumpkin alfredo pasta with sage is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for fall or any time you crave a rich, savory meal. It combines tender spaghetti with a luscious sauce made from butter, garlic, pumpkin puree, half & half, parmesan cheese, and fresh sage leaves. Adding grilled chicken makes it a hearty main course that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz Spaghetti
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves of garlic (grated or finely minced)
- 1 cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 cups half & half
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 10 sage leaves (chopped, about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Protein
- 6 oz grilled chicken
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large skillet, bring salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add the grated or finely minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it. Stir in the canned pumpkin and half & half, whisking to combine smoothly.
- Add Cheese and Sage: Mix in the grated parmesan cheese, chopped sage leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients. Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Reduce heat to low and keep the sauce warm while the pasta finishes cooking.
- Heat the Chicken: Warm the pre-grilled chicken breast strips in the microwave for about 2 minutes until heated through.
- Combine and Serve: When the pasta is done, return it to the large skillet or a large bowl. Pour the creamy pumpkin sauce over the pasta, add the warm chicken strips, and toss gently to combine. Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh sage leaves for an extra touch of flavor and aroma.
Notes
- Make sure to use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor and texture.
- You can substitute grilled chicken with roasted turkey or keep the dish vegetarian by omitting the poultry.
- For a richer sauce, you can add an extra 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese or a dollop of cream cheese.
- Fresh sage leaves enhance the flavor, but dried sage can be used in smaller quantities if fresh is not available.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences to ensure a well-balanced alfredo sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
