30 Creative Pumpkin-Inspired Pasta Dish Recipes for Comfort Food Lovers
Pumpkin season is one of my absolute favorite times of the year, and if you're anything like me, you're always looking for new ways to enjoy that cozy fall flavor. Sure, we love our pumpkin pies and lattes, but why not take it up a notch and bring pumpkin into the world of pasta?
Combining the creamy, rich taste of pumpkin with the hearty, satisfying comfort of pasta makes for a dish that's perfect for chilly evenings. In this list of 30 creative pumpkin-inspired pasta dishes, you'll find everything from savory pumpkin alfredo to spicy pumpkin pesto, and trust me, these recipes will quickly become some of your go-to comfort meals.
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1. Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta
This creamy and savory dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The pumpkin adds a velvety richness to the traditional Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz fettuccine
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions.
- In a large pan, sauté garlic in butter until fragrant.
- Add pumpkin puree, cream, and Parmesan, stirring until smooth.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
2. Pumpkin Sage Ravioli
This homemade ravioli is filled with a luscious pumpkin and ricotta mixture, then topped with a buttery sage sauce.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup ricotta
- Fresh sage
- 1/4 cup butter
Instructions:
- Make the pasta dough by mixing flour and eggs. Roll out thin.
- Mix pumpkin puree and ricotta for the filling.
- Cut dough into squares, fill with the pumpkin mixture, and seal the edges.
- Cook ravioli in boiling water, then toss with melted butter and sage.
3. Pumpkin Carbonara
A fall twist on the classic carbonara with a subtle pumpkin flavor that brings warmth to every bite.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup grated Pecorino cheese
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
Instructions:
- Cook spaghetti and bacon.
- Whisk eggs, pumpkin puree, and cheese together.
- Toss the hot pasta in the mixture, allowing the eggs to cook slightly from the heat.
- Add bacon, mix well, and serve.
4. Spicy Pumpkin Pesto Pasta
If you like a little kick, this spicy pumpkin pesto pasta will hit the spot. The pumpkin and pesto balance out the heat perfectly.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup basil pesto
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
- Cook penne according to package instructions.
- In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, pesto, and red pepper flakes.
- Toss the pasta with the sauce and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells
These cheesy stuffed shells are packed with creamy pumpkin and ricotta, baked to perfection in a savory tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
- 18 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Mozzarella for topping
Instructions:
- Cook the jumbo shells in salted water.
- Mix pumpkin puree and ricotta together.
- Stuff the shells with the pumpkin mixture and place them in a baking dish.
- Top with marinara and mozzarella, then bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.
6. Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
A fall-inspired twist on the classic mac and cheese with creamy pumpkin and sharp cheddar.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
- In a pot, mix pumpkin puree, cheddar, and milk. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Toss in the cooked macaroni, season, and serve.
7. Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce
Light, pillowy pumpkin gnocchi tossed in a rich brown butter sauce and sprinkled with Parmesan.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed pumpkin
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup butter
- Fresh sage
Instructions:
- Mix pumpkin, flour, and egg to form a dough. Shape into gnocchi.
- Boil the gnocchi until they float.
- Toss in brown butter and sage, and sprinkle with Parmesan.
8. Pumpkin Spinach Lasagna
Layered with creamy pumpkin, spinach, and ricotta, this lasagna is a cozy fall dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups pumpkin puree
- 1 cup ricotta
- 2 cups spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
Instructions:
- Cook lasagna noodles.
- Layer the noodles with pumpkin puree, ricotta, and spinach.
- Top with Parmesan and bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.
9. Pumpkin Fettuccine with Goat Cheese
Goat cheese adds a tangy creaminess that complements the pumpkin in this simple yet delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz fettuccine
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 4 oz goat cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions.
- In a pan, mix pumpkin puree, goat cheese, and cream until smooth.
- Toss the cooked fettuccine in the sauce and serve hot.
10. Pumpkin Chicken Alfredo Bake
A hearty and comforting casserole with tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy pumpkin Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup cream
- Mozzarella for topping
Instructions:
- Cook penne and set aside.
- Mix pumpkin puree, cream, and chicken together.
- Toss with the pasta, top with mozzarella, and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
11. Pumpkin Sausage Penne
Savory sausage and pumpkin make for a hearty, satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup Parmesan
Instructions:
- Cook penne and set aside.
- Brown the sausage in a skillet, then stir in pumpkin puree.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce and top with Parmesan.
12. Pumpkin Mushroom Fettuccine
Earthy mushrooms and sweet pumpkin come together in this creamy fettuccine that’s perfect for fall.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz fettuccine
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup Parmesan
Instructions:
- Cook fettuccine according to package directions.
- Sauté mushrooms in butter until golden brown.
- Add pumpkin puree and cream, stirring until smooth.
- Toss the pasta in the sauce, sprinkle with Parmesan, and serve.
13. Spicy Pumpkin Arrabbiata
If you’re craving some heat, this pumpkin arrabbiata sauce with a kick of chili flakes is just what you need.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions:
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Sauté garlic in olive oil, then add crushed tomatoes and pumpkin puree.
- Stir in red pepper flakes, simmer, and toss with spaghetti.
14. Pumpkin Alfredo with Bacon
Creamy pumpkin Alfredo with crispy bacon pieces adds a smoky, savory element to this rich pasta dish.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz fettuccine
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup Parmesan
Instructions:
- Cook fettuccine and set aside.
- In a pan, combine pumpkin puree, cream, and Parmesan.
- Toss the pasta in the sauce and top with crispy bacon.
15. Pumpkin Tortellini in Sage Butter
Cheese tortellini bathed in a sage-infused butter sauce, with a hint of pumpkin for added creaminess.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz cheese tortellini
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup butter
- Fresh sage leaves
Instructions:
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
- In a pan, melt butter with fresh sage, then add pumpkin puree.
- Toss the tortellini in the sauce and serve.
16. Pumpkin Lasagna Roll-Ups
Pumpkin and ricotta filling rolled into lasagna noodles and topped with a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
- 8 lasagna noodles
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup ricotta
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Mozzarella for topping
Instructions:
- Cook lasagna noodles and set aside.
- Spread pumpkin and ricotta on each noodle, roll them up, and place in a baking dish.
- Top with marinara and mozzarella, then bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
17. Pumpkin Parmesan Orzo
This creamy orzo dish is perfect as a side or a main course, with pumpkin and Parmesan creating a luxurious sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup Parmesan
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
- Cook orzo according to package instructions.
- Stir in pumpkin puree, cream, and Parmesan, and cook until creamy.
18. Pumpkin Ziti with Sausage
Baked ziti gets a fall makeover with savory sausage, pumpkin sauce, and lots of cheese.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz ziti
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Mozzarella and Parmesan for topping
Instructions:
- Cook ziti and brown sausage.
- Combine sausage, pumpkin puree, and marinara sauce.
- Toss with ziti, top with mozzarella and Parmesan, and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
19. Pumpkin Shrimp Linguine
Creamy pumpkin sauce pairs beautifully with tender shrimp in this flavorful linguine dish.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz linguine
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup Parmesan
Instructions:
- Cook linguine and set aside.
- Sauté shrimp until pink, then add pumpkin puree and cream.
- Toss with the linguine and sprinkle with Parmesan.
20. Pumpkin Garlic Butter Spaghetti
Garlic butter and pumpkin make for a simple but flavorful spaghetti that’s both light and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup butter
- Parmesan for topping
Instructions:
- Cook spaghetti and set aside.
- Melt butter in a pan, sauté garlic, and stir in pumpkin puree.
- Toss the spaghetti in the sauce and top with Parmesan.
21. Pumpkin and Kale Lasagna
A veggie-packed lasagna with layers of pumpkin, kale, and creamy ricotta.
Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups pumpkin puree
- 1 cup ricotta
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- Mozzarella for topping
Instructions:
- Cook lasagna noodles and set aside.
- Layer noodles with pumpkin puree, ricotta, and kale.
- Top with mozzarella and bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.
22. Pumpkin Alfredo with Roasted Garlic
Roasted garlic adds a deep, rich flavor to this creamy pumpkin Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz fettuccine
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 head of garlic, roasted
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
- Roast the garlic and squeeze the cloves from the skins.
- Combine roasted garlic, pumpkin puree, and cream in a pan.
- Toss the fettuccine in the sauce and serve hot.
23. Pumpkin Alfredo Baked Ziti
Baked ziti smothered in a creamy pumpkin Alfredo sauce and topped with melted mozzarella.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz ziti
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce
- Mozzarella for topping
Instructions:
- Cook ziti and set aside.
- Mix pumpkin puree with Alfredo sauce and toss with the pasta.
- Top with mozzarella and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
24. Pumpkin and Spinach Stuffed Shells
These jumbo shells are packed with pumpkin, spinach, and ricotta, then baked in a light tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
- 18 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup ricotta
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
- Cook shells and set aside.
- Mix pumpkin, ricotta, and spinach.
- Stuff the shells, place them in a baking dish, top with marinara, and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
25. Pumpkin Alfredo Penne with Walnuts
Crunchy walnuts add a delightful texture to this creamy pumpkin Alfredo pasta.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- Parmesan for topping
Instructions:
- Cook penne and set aside.
- In a pan, mix pumpkin puree and cream.
- Toss the pasta in the sauce and top with chopped walnuts and Parmesan.
26. Pumpkin Pappardelle with Pancetta
Thick, wide pappardelle noodles pair perfectly with pumpkin and crispy pancetta in this hearty dish.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pappardelle
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 4 oz pancetta, diced
- 1/2 cup cream
Instructions:
- Cook pappardelle and set aside.
- Cook pancetta until crispy, then add pumpkin puree and cream.
- Toss the pasta in the sauce and serve hot.
27. Pumpkin Alfredo with Spinach
Creamy pumpkin Alfredo sauce gets a nutritional boost with fresh spinach mixed in.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz fettuccine
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup cream
- 2 cups spinach
Instructions:
- Cook fettuccine and set aside.
- In a pan, combine pumpkin puree and cream, then stir in spinach until wilted.
- Toss the pasta in the sauce and serve.
28. Pumpkin Alfredo with Prosciutto
Prosciutto adds a salty, savory twist to this creamy pumpkin Alfredo pasta.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz fettuccine
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup cream
- 4 slices prosciutto, crispy
Instructions:
- Cook fettuccine and set aside.
- In a pan, mix pumpkin puree and cream.
- Toss the pasta in the sauce and top with crispy prosciutto.
29.Pumpkin Alfredo Baked Rigatoni
Baked rigatoni with a rich pumpkin Alfredo sauce and bubbling mozzarella on top.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz rigatoni
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce
- Mozzarella for topping
Instructions:
- Cook rigatoni and set aside.
- Mix pumpkin puree with Alfredo sauce and toss with the pasta.
- Top with mozzarella and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
30. Pumpkin Carbonara
A fall twist on the classic carbonara, where pumpkin puree replaces some of the creaminess of the egg yolks, while still delivering a rich and velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook spaghetti until al dente and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, pumpkin puree, Parmesan, and reserved pasta water.
- Toss the hot spaghetti in the sauce, stirring quickly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Add the crumbled bacon, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.
Conclusion
Pumpkin isn’t just for pies and lattes; it’s a surprisingly versatile ingredient that shines in savory dishes like pasta. From creamy sauces to hearty baked casseroles, these pumpkin-inspired pasta recipes offer a comforting twist perfect for fall.
Whether you're a fan of spicy, cheesy, or meaty flavors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, with pumpkin’s natural sweetness and nutritional benefits, it’s a delicious way to sneak some extra vitamins into your meals. Give one (or all!) of these dishes a try, and you’ll see how easy it is to make your favorite comfort food even cozier. With just a few ingredients, you can transform simple pasta into something seasonal and truly special.
