Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking the pasta in salted water enhances its flavor. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta you choose.

Tip: Stir the pasta occasionally while cooking to prevent it from sticking together. Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This step builds a rich flavor base for your sauce and sets the tone for the entire dish.

Encouragement: The smell of garlic sizzling in butter will make your kitchen feel warm and inviting, and it’s just the beginning of this delicious journey!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Next, add the pumpkin puree and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer to reduce it slightly. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Reassurance: Don’t worry if the sauce appears a bit thin at first; it will thicken as it cooks and combines with the pasta!

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently in the creamy pumpkin sauce until well-coated. This is where the magic happens—you’ll see your pasta transformed into a creamy, vibrant dish that’s sure to impress!