Dinner

Easy Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta Recipe

ByMaya Quinn November 26, 2025November 26, 2025

Introduction

Easy Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta is a cozy twist on a classic comfort dish. The pumpkin puree adds a velvety creaminess without heaviness, while parmesan brings a savory depth. Ready in under 30 minutes, this one-pot sauce and pasta combo is perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.

A bowl of creamy orange pasta swirled into a spiral on the top, covered with thin, grated light yellow cheese and a small green parsley leaf garnish placed in the center. The pasta sits in a round rustic bowl with a warm brown rim, all placed on a white marbled surface with soft steam rising from the hot dish. The pasta texture looks smooth and thick, creating a rich and warm feeling. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 oz fettuccine pasta
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt (plus more for pasta water)
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
½ cup reserved pasta water
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, scoop out ½ cup of pasta water and set aside. Drain the pasta.
Step 2: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to brown it.
Step 3: Stir in the pumpkin puree and heavy cream. Mix well until smooth and heated through.
Step 4: Add the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Stir well. Gradually sprinkle in the parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it melts and forms a silky sauce.
Step 5: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, stir in some reserved pasta water until creamy and smooth.
Step 6: Transfer the pasta to bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan if desired. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Grate your own parmesan for a smoother melt and better flavor.
Avoid letting the garlic brown to prevent bitterness.
Use penne or rigatoni instead of fettuccine for a different texture.
Swap half-and-half for heavy cream to lighten the sauce.
Add cooked chicken or crispy bacon for extra protein.
Try pecorino romano in place of parmesan for a sharper taste.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Avoid freezing, as cream-based sauces can separate.

How to Serve

A bowl of creamy orange pasta is shown, with thick noodles coated in a smooth, rich sauce. The pasta is swirled neatly in the bowl, creating a soft texture. On top, there are fine shreds of pale cheese and a few sprigs of fresh green herbs adding contrast. The bowl is rustic with a natural brown color on the outside and a slightly lighter inside, placed on a white marbled surface. Steam rises gently from the hot dish, showing its freshness. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices that will alter the flavor and texture of the sauce. Always use unsweetened pumpkin puree for the best results.