If you’re craving a dish that wraps you up in warmth and comfort, then this Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender pieces of chicken swimming in a luxuriously creamy sauce made with rich pumpkin purée and fragrant sage, all tossed lovingly with perfectly cooked fettuccine. This cozy twist on classic Alfredo is a celebration of fall flavors blended into one irresistible plate that feels like a hug from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, combining simplicity and freshness to create a symphony of flavor and texture. From the buttery notes of garlic sautéed to sweetness, to the subtle earthiness of sage and the creamy goodness of pumpkin and Parmesan, every single element is essential to that perfect balance.
- 8 oz fettuccine: Provides the perfect wide noodle to hold onto the luscious sauce.
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and a silky base for the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with fragrant warmth and depth.
- 1 cup pumpkin purée: Brings creamy texture and a hint of natural sweetness that defines this dish.
- ¾ cup heavy cream: Ensures the sauce is decadently smooth and indulgent.
- ½ cup Parmesan: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements pumpkin beautifully.
- 1 tsp chopped sage: Introduces a savory, earthy note essential for fall flair.
- 2 cups cooked chicken: Provides hearty protein to round out the meal perfectly.
How to Make Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine until it’s just al dente. This ensures the pasta will hold its shape and absorb the sauce without becoming mushy. Drain it well, but keep a bit of pasta water just in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes. This foundational step brings out that nutty, aromatic quality that sets the tone for the sauce.
Step 3: Create the Pumpkin Sage Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the pumpkin purée, heavy cream, and chopped sage. This trio melds into a velvety sauce that’s both creamy and subtly herbaceous. Allow it to warm through and combine, stirring occasionally so the flavors marry beautifully.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Chicken
Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and add the cooked chicken pieces. Stir gently until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce and the chicken is heated through. This step makes the dish hearty and ensures every bite carries that rich, cheesy goodness and tender meat.
Step 5: Toss Pasta and Sauce Together
Finally, add the drained fettuccine to the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated in that creamy, dreamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up for perfect cling and texture.
How to Serve Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
The little touches make all the difference here. Crisp some sage leaves in a bit of butter to sprinkle on top for a delicate crunch and intensified aroma. A generous shower of freshly grated Parmesan adds a final cheesy flourish that makes this dish irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pair this comforting plate with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or butternut squash for that cozy autumn vibe. Garlic bread also works beautifully to soak up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style in a large, rustic bowl for a warm shared experience or plate each serving individually topped with the crispy sage and Parmesan for a restaurant-quality presentation. For a festive touch, add a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of sage-infused olive oil.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any remaining Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors marry even more after resting, making leftovers just as delicious as the first serving.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but note that the creamy sauce may alter slightly in texture upon thawing. For best results, freeze the sauce and chicken separately from the pasta, then combine and reheat gently when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers slowly over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or milk to bring back the luscious sauce consistency without drying out the chicken. Stir frequently so it heats evenly and remains silky.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine works wonderfully because of its shape and width, penne, rigatoni, or even pappardelle would all hold the creamy sauce beautifully and work well in this recipe.
Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?
The classic Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo Recipe includes chicken, but you can easily make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken or swapping in mushrooms or roasted butternut squash for a similar hearty texture.
Can I substitute heavy cream with something lighter?
Light cream or half-and-half can be used to reduce the richness, though the sauce may be slightly less creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream is a great option that adds a unique richness, just be mindful the flavor will shift accordingly.
How do I make the sage crispy for garnish?
Simply heat a small amount of butter or oil in a pan over medium heat, add fresh sage leaves, and cook them until they are crisp and just darkened, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes. Drain on paper towels before sprinkling on top.
Can I prepare this dish for a large gathering?
This recipe scales up easily, making it perfect for dinner parties or family meals. Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and keep the sauce warm in a double boiler or low oven until serving to maintain its creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo Recipe is one of those magic dishes that turns an ordinary night into something cozy and special. The harmony between creamy pumpkin, savory sage, and tender chicken makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to try it and savor every comforting bite as much as I do!
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Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy pumpkin meets earthy sage in this cozy twist on classic Alfredo, blending tender chicken and fettuccine in a rich, comforting sauce perfect for a fall dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine
Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp chopped fresh sage
Protein
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Pumpkin and Cream: Stir in the pumpkin purée, heavy cream, and chopped sage, mixing well to combine and heat through gently.
- Incorporate Cheese and Chicken: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and cooked chicken to the sauce, stirring until the cheese melts and the chicken is evenly coated and warmed through.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss everything together to thoroughly coat the pasta with the creamy pumpkin sage sauce.
Notes
- Top with crispy fried sage leaves for extra texture and flavor.
- Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese before serving for a richer taste.
- Use fresh sage for the best aroma and flavor impact.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
