Pumpkin Feta Creamy Pasta (Print)

Creamy pumpkin and feta with sage create a comforting, autumn-inspired pasta, full of savory flavor and satisfying texture.

# What You'll Need:

01 - 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
02 - 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
03 - 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
04 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
05 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1/4 cup olive oil
08 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage (or 1 tablespoon dried sage)
09 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
11 - 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas), for garnish
12 - 2 tablespoons butter
13 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
14 - 1/2 cup vegetable broth or pasta water

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
02 - Add the minced garlic and chopped fresh sage. Cook for one minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
03 - Pour in the pumpkin puree and stir well to combine with the onion, garlic, and sage mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
04 - Pour in the heavy cream and stir for a smooth sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
05 - Season the sauce with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
06 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
07 - Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water if needed to adjust consistency.
08 - Gently stir in half of the crumbled feta cheese, keeping some crumbles intact for texture.
09 - Melt two tablespoons of butter in a small pan and drizzle over the pasta for added richness.
10 - Serve immediately, garnished with remaining feta, toasted pumpkin seeds, and optional fresh sage.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Reserve pasta water for a creamy consistency.
02 - Simmering the sauce deepens the flavors.
03 - Pumpkin puree and Parmesan provide balance between sweet and savory.

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