Introduction
As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like cozying up with a warm, hearty meal that celebrates the flavors of fall. This One-Pan Cheesy Pumpkin Pasta is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when your family craves comfort food, but you don’t have the time or energy to spend hours in the kitchen.
With its creamy pumpkin sauce, a hint of garlic, and the richness of melted cheese, this dish not only delivers on taste but also brings a delightful twist to traditional pasta recipes. Plus, it’s all made in a single pan—meaning less time spent on cleanup and more time enjoyed around the dinner table with loved ones.
Whether you’re looking to introduce more seasonal ingredients into your meals or simply want an easy yet delicious dish to whip up, this One-Pan Cheesy Pumpkin Pasta is sure to become a fall favorite in your household. Grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delightful culinary experience!
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (your selection, penne or fusilli are excellent choices)
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt (to preference)
- ½ tsp black pepper (to preference)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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- In a spacious skillet or a deep pan, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Incorporate the chopped onion and sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent.
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- Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn.
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- Introduce the pasta into the skillet, along with the pumpkin puree, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are combined.
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- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Allow it to simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta reaches al dente and absorbs most of the liquid.
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- After the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Blend thoroughly until the cheese is melted and the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
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- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the pasta appears too thick, feel free to add a bit more broth or cream to achieve your desired texture.
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- Take it off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 25 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 ounces of your choice (fusilli, penne, or spaghetti work great)
- Pumpkin Puree: 1 cup (canned or homemade)
- Vegetable Broth: 3 cups (or chicken broth for added flavor)
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened (for creaminess)
- Shredded Cheese: 1 cup (mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend)
- Spinach: 2 cups fresh (or frozen if you prefer)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon (or a mix of dried basil and oregano)
- Red Pepper Flakes: optional, for a bit of heat
- Parmesan Cheese: for garnish (optional, but highly recommended!)
These key ingredients come together to create a delicious and comforting one-pan dish that the whole family will love!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when your dish is ready, it will bake evenly and efficiently.
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Prepare the Base: In a large oven-safe skillet or pan, combine the uncooked pasta, canned pumpkin, vegetable broth, garlic, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the pasta is well coated and everything is mixed together.
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Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta mixture. This will melt beautifully during the baking process and add a creamy texture.
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Bake: Cover the skillet with aluminum foil (this helps to keep the moisture in) and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
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Add Toppings: Remove the foil and stir the pasta to check for consistency. If it looks a bit dry, feel free to add a splash of extra broth. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, along with any additional toppings like breadcrumbs or extra herbs.
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Final Bake: Return the pan to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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Cool and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the pasta sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious One-Pan Cheesy Pumpkin Pasta, perfect for a fast family dinner that everyone will love!
Serving Suggestions
This One-Pan Cheesy Pumpkin Pasta is a delightful dish that can stand alone, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal and create a more rounded dining experience:
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Fresh Salad: Pair the pasta with a crisp side salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will complement the creamy texture of the pasta and add a refreshing crunch.
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Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or crusty artisan bread. The buttery, garlicky bites are perfect for scooping up any leftover cheesy sauce.
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Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted seasonal vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or zucchini. The caramelized flavors will enhance the dish and provide a healthy balance.
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Herb Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle some fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or thyme over the pasta for a burst of color and additional flavor.
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Protein Boost: For added protein, consider tossing in some cooked chicken, sautéed shrimp, or chickpeas. This way, you can tailor the dish to fit your family’s preferences and dietary needs.
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Wine Pairing: Complement your meal with a glass of white wine, such as a light Sauvignon Blanc or a creamy Chardonnay. These options will harmonize beautifully with the creaminess of the pasta.
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Finish with a Kick: If your family enjoys a bit of heat, provide red pepper flake or hot sauce on the side for those who want to spice things up.
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Dessert Option: Round out the meal with a light dessert, such as a seasonal fruit salad or a scoop of pumpkin ice cream, to keep the autumn theme going.
These serving suggestions not only enhance the One-Pan Cheesy Pumpkin Pasta, but also create a delightful family dinner experience that everyone will love!
Conclusion
This One-Pan Cheesy Pumpkin Pasta is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something delicious without sacrificing quality or flavor. With its creamy pumpkin sauce, cheesy goodness, and hearty pasta, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. The best part? All of it is made in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, proteins, or herbs to make it your own. This dish not only brings warmth and comfort to the table but also showcases the beautiful flavors of the fall season. So, gather your family around for a cozy, satisfying meal that celebrates the joys of simple cooking. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your twists on this recipe! Happy cooking!
