Name: Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Sage, Walnuts, and Pepitas Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or linguini); 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 teaspoons minced garlic; 1 cup pumpkin purée; 2 Tablespoons milk; 1 Tablespoon white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar; 3/4 cup vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon pepper (or to taste); 3-4 fresh sage leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried sage; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 cups spinach; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts; 2 Tablespoons roasted pepitas; Extra parmesan for garnish (optional); Sage leaves for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 90 reviews

If you’re falling for all things pumpkin and pasta, then let me introduce you to the ultimate cozy comfort dish: the Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Sage, Walnuts, and Pepitas Recipe. This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, with smooth pumpkin puree blended into a garlicky, herby sauce that clings perfectly to your favorite pasta. The crunchy walnuts and pepitas add that irresistible texture contrast, while the fresh sage leaves bring a woodsy depth that makes every bite feel like an autumn celebration. It’s a quick, wholesome meal that’s become one of my absolute favorites for a reason—once you try it, you’ll want to keep it around as a fall staple too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of a thick, orange-yellow mixture with some visible green leafy pieces blended inside, giving a vibrant contrast. The texture looks smooth with slight chunks, spread in a white bowl. A white spatula with traces of the orange mixture rests inside the bowl, suggesting stirring. The background is a white marbled surface, enhancing the bright colors of the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Sage, Walnuts, and Pepitas Recipe really lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious balance of flavor, texture, and color that’s nothing short of spectacular.

Pasta (8 ounces): I love using fettuccine, spaghetti, or linguini—choose your favorite to provide the perfect base for the sauce.
Olive Oil (1/4 cup): Gives a silky texture and helps gently cook the garlic and herbs.
Minced Garlic (3 teaspoons): Adds a fragrant punch that makes the sauce pop.
Pumpkin Purée (1 cup): The star ingredient, lending creaminess, natural sweetness, and beautiful fall color.
Milk (2 Tablespoons): Helps loosen the sauce while keeping it rich and velvety.
White Wine Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar (1 Tablespoon): Balances the dish with a subtle tanginess that brightens every bite.
Vegetable Broth (3/4 cup): Adds depth and moisture to the sauce without overpowering the pumpkin’s flavor.
Salt (1 teaspoon) and Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning the dish perfectly.
Fresh Sage Leaves (3-4) or Dried Sage (1/2 teaspoon): This herb infuses the sauce with an earthy aroma and slightly peppery taste.
Grated Parmesan (1/2 cup): Adds a tangy, salty finish that melts beautifully into the sauce.
Spinach (2 cups): Adds a fresh, leafy green element that softens in the warmth of the sauce.
Chopped Walnuts (1/4 cup): Offers a toasty crunch putting a delightful contrast against the creamy sauce.
Roasted Pepitas (2 Tablespoons): Adds a nutty pop that’s almost addictive for topping the dish.

How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Sage, Walnuts, and Pepitas Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. This is important because the pasta will finish cooking as it mingles with the sauce, soaking up all those incredible fall flavors.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil

While your pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden. This simple step sets the aromatic foundation for the sauce, so don’t rush it!

Step 3: Combine Pumpkin and Liquids

Reduce the heat to medium and add the pumpkin purée, milk, vinegar, and vegetable broth. Whisk everything together quickly to create a smooth, velvety sauce. Let it simmer gently for 4-5 minutes to meld the flavors and thicken slightly.

Step 4: Infuse with Sage and Parmesan

Now, whisk in your fresh or dried sage along with the grated parmesan cheese. Turn off the heat but keep whisking for 2-3 minutes to let the cheese melt into the sauce, thickening it further while maintaining that luscious creaminess.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Pasta

Toss in the fresh spinach and cooked pasta, stirring gently until the spinach wilts and everything is well coated in the creamy pumpkin sauce. This final mix brings everything together — fresh, creamy, and comforting all at once.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Dish out the pasta onto plates and finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped walnuts, roasted pepitas, extra parmesan if you like, and a few sage leaves for a beautiful presentation and added flavor crunch.

How to Serve Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Sage, Walnuts, and Pepitas Recipe

The image shows a close-up of thick, flat noodles coated in a smooth, orange-colored sauce with visible small green bits mixed in. The noodles are twisted and layered unevenly inside a white bowl, with some sauce clinging to the bowl's sides. A white utensil, partially visible, stirs the noodles from the right side against a white marbled background. The texture of the sauce looks creamy and clings well to the noodles photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The toasted walnuts and pepitas aren’t just for taste—they contribute a gorgeous crunch that contrasts so well with the rich sauce. Fresh sage leaves on top add both fragrance and a pop of green that makes your plate look as vibrant as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is also a winner, perfect for scooping up every last bit of that dreamy pumpkin sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pasta in warm shallow bowls to keep the sauce cozy and inviting. If you want to get fancy, swirl in a little extra olive oil or a dollop of ricotta on top for creaminess that impresses. A sprinkle of chili flakes can add a subtle kick for those who love a bit of heat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, let any leftovers cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days, making for easy and satisfying next-day meals.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, too! Just portion it into freezer-safe containers and label them. You can keep it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce because creamy pumpkin pasta tends to thicken when chilled.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is often the easiest option. Just make sure it’s plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.

Is this recipe vegetarian friendly?

Yes, this Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Sage, Walnuts, and Pepitas Recipe is vegetarian. If you want to make it vegan, you can swap the parmesan for a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk.

What type of pasta works best?

Long, flat pastas like fettuccine or linguini are ideal because the sauce clings beautifully to their shape, but spaghetti also works just fine. Feel free to get creative depending on what you have on hand!

Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic addition, and you can also try crispy tofu or sautéed mushrooms to boost the protein content while keeping it meat-free.

How spicy is this pasta?

By nature, this recipe is mild and comforting, focusing on warm, savory flavors. However, you can always add red pepper flakes or a bit of black pepper if you prefer a little heat.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Pumpkin Pasta with Sage, Walnuts, and Pepitas Recipe is more than just dinner—it’s a celebration of fall flavors that’s easy to make and impossible not to love. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, it’s the kind of meal that brings warmth to your kitchen and smiles to your table. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own cozy tradition!