Description
A cozy fall-inspired pasta dish featuring tender cheese tortellini tossed in a creamy pumpkin sauce, enriched with warm spices and parmesan cheese for a comforting, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 20 oz cheese tortellini
Sauce
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Optional: fresh sage leaves
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Prepare the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- Make Pumpkin Sauce: Stir in the pumpkin purée, heavy cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper into the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Parmesan and Tortellini: Mix in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Then add the cooked tortellini, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the pumpkin tortellini to serving plates, garnish with fresh sage leaves if desired, and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- If the pumpkin sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it to your preferred consistency.
- Fresh sage adds herbal brightness but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
