Pumpkin pasta feta is my go-to comfort food when the leaves start turning and my kitchen looks like a pumpkin patch exploded. The combination of creamy pumpkin, salty feta, and a swirl of pasta always seems to warm up the house—and my mood—no matter how chilly it gets outside. Honestly, nothing says fall quite like this cozy dish bubbling away on the stove.
First, I admit, I found the idea of pumpkin pasta feta a little odd. However, after one hectic weeknight—when my pantry was bare except for a can of pumpkin and a sad hunk of feta—I gave it a try. So, let me tell you, this recipe turned my kitchen chaos into a dinner win. Now, it’s a fall tradition, perfect for those nights when you want something hearty but don’t want to fuss.
Personal Anecdote
Last fall, I was frantically searching for easy, creamy pumpkin pasta dinner ideas. My kids were bouncing off the walls, my phone was buzzing with reminders, and I’d forgotten to buy half the groceries on my list. So, I rummaged through my cupboards, spotted a can of pumpkin puree, and remembered that lonely block of feta in the fridge. Pumpkin pasta feta to the rescue!
Then, as I started cooking, the smell of garlic and sage filled the kitchen, and you could almost hear everyone’s mood lift a notch. Also, the kids actually helped crumble the feta—though, of course, they snuck bites when they thought I wasn’t looking. Somehow, the chaos turned into laughter, and dinner went from stressful to special. Now, every time I make this, I’m reminded that sometimes the best recipes are born from a little bit of kitchen mayhem.
Why This Recipe is Special
First, pumpkin pasta feta is a dinner that feels fancy but is secretly so easy to throw together. Also, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies for those picky eaters (they never guess that pumpkin is the star!). If you’re looking for healthy dinner recipes for fall that don’t taste like a compromise, this is it.
However, it’s not just for family chaos nights. Finally, this dish is perfect for potlucks, cozy fall gatherings, or even a quick weeknight meal when you’re craving something creamy and comforting. The pumpkin pasta feta combo brings out all those autumn flavors you crave, and it’s just as welcome at a holiday table as it is on a random Tuesday. So, if you need a new fall favorite, this recipe is waiting for you—mishaps and all.
Ingredients breakdown
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or preferred shape) | 1 pound |
| Pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) | 1 (15-ounce) can |
| Feta cheese, crumbled | 4 ounces |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh sage, chopped (or dried sage) | 1/4 cup (or 1 tablespoon dried) |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt and freshly ground black pepper | to taste |
| Pumpkin seeds (pepitas), toasted | 1/4 cup |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 small |
| Vegetable broth or reserved pasta water | 1/2 cup |
Utensils and substitutions
First, you’ll want a large skillet or Dutch oven for making the pumpkin pasta feta sauce. A trusty wooden spoon helps stir everything together. If you don’t have fresh sage, dried works fine—just use a bit less for that classic autumn flavor. A colander is handy for draining the pasta, and a small pan makes melting the butter easy. For the pasta, any short shape is great; penne or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce well.
Also, don’t worry if you’re missing pumpkin seeds—sunflower seeds or even chopped nuts can add crunch. For a lighter dish, swap heavy cream with half-and-half. If you’re looking for more cozy inspiration, check out my Creamy Crock Pot Ranch Chicken Dinner Recipes or the Easy Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Pasta Cozy Family Dinner Idea. For more tips on healthy swaps in “Healthy Dinner Recipes For Fall”, I often turn to Nutrition.gov for practical advice. Finally, don’t forget to adjust seasonings to your own taste—it’s your kitchen after all! “Fall Easy Recipes Dinners”, “Pumpkin Entrees”, “Fall Vegetarian Dinner Recipes”, “Pumpkin Potluck Recipes”, “Healthy Pumpkin Dinner Recipes”, “Healthy Fall Pasta Recipes”, and “Italian Fall Recipes” all have a place at your table this season.
Step-by-step method for a pumpkin pasta feta
Step 1
First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Then, add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds the flavorful base for your sauce.
Step 2
Next, stir in the minced garlic and fresh sage, cooking for another minute until fragrant but not burnt. Afterward, add the pumpkin puree and mix well with the onion, garlic, and sage. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld together.
Step 3
Then, pour in the heavy cream and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and keep stirring until it melts completely. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Finally, reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes. If it gets too thick, add some vegetable broth or reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Tips and tricks to make this Dinner recipe shine
Also, while the sauce simmers, cook your pasta to al dente and reserve some pasta water before draining. Toss the pasta with the pumpkin pasta feta sauce, adding reserved water as needed for the perfect creamy texture. Gently fold in half the feta cheese for a tangy surprise in every bite. For extra richness, melt butter and drizzle it over the pasta just before serving. Garnish with the remaining feta and toasted pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch.
This pumpkin pasta feta is a wonderful option for Fall Dinner Recipes Veggies and Healthy Dinner Recipes For Fall. If you enjoy cozy meals, check out our Easy Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Pasta Cozy Family Dinner Idea or the Easy Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Pasta Cozy Dinner The Whole Family Will Love for more comforting dinner inspiration.
What to serve with this Dinner recipe
This pumpkin pasta feta dish pairs beautifully with fresh, crisp salads or warm, crusty bread. Also, consider adding a side of roasted veggies to complement the creamy texture and rich flavors. For a cozy meal, try our Cozy Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup Easy Healthy Recipe or indulge in the Best Cozy Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls For A Delicious Breakfast Treat for a sweet finish.
How to store and reheat
Store leftover pumpkin pasta feta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Next, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat to preserve the creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to keep it smooth and delicious.
FAQ
Can I make pumpkin pasta feta ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then combine and reheat just before serving to keep the feta fresh and creamy.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This pumpkin pasta feta dish contains no meat products, making it perfect for a fall vegetarian dinner recipe.
What kind of pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni hold the sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite type.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Freezing is possible but not recommended, as the texture of the pumpkin and feta can change upon thawing.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole-grain pasta and control the amount of cheese to keep it light yet satisfying.
Print
Pumpkin Pasta Feta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy pumpkin pasta infused with garlic, sage, and crumbled feta cheese, topped with toasted pumpkin seeds for a crunchy finish. This cozy dish combines smooth pumpkin sauce with hearty pasta for a comforting vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your preferred shape)
1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup chopped fresh sage (or 1 tablespoon dried sage)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas), for garnish
2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup vegetable broth or reserved pasta water
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet or Dutch oven. Add finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic and chopped fresh sage; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add pumpkin puree and mix well; cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in heavy cream; stir to create a smooth sauce.
5. Add grated Parmesan cheese; continue stirring until melted and combined.
6. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
7. Lower heat and simmer sauce gently for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add vegetable broth or reserved pasta water if sauce thickens too much.
8. Meanwhile, bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
9. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta cooking water before draining.
10. Drain pasta and add to skillet with pumpkin feta sauce; toss to coat evenly.
11. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, if needed.
12. Gently fold in half of the crumbled feta cheese.
13. Melt butter in a small pan and drizzle over pasta for extra richness.
14. Serve immediately, garnished with remaining feta cheese and toasted pumpkin seeds.
Notes
Use vegetable broth as a lighter alternative to pasta water.
Fresh sage can be substituted with dried sage if unavailable.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently to avoid curdling the sauce.
Add red pepper flakes gradually to control heat level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering, Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 460 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 370 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
Thanks for stopping by and sharing some kitchen time with me! This pumpkin pasta feta recipe brings cozy, comforting vibes perfect for fall evenings. Remember, you can easily pair it with other seasonal favorites like our Cozy Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup Easy Healthy Recipe or treat yourself to the Best Cozy Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls For A Delicious Breakfast Treat. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more tasty ideas and inspiration. Cozy up, enjoy your meal, and see you next time in the kitchen!