Sausage and Pumpkin Pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that combines the savory richness of sausage with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin. This flavorful pasta recipe offers a harmonious blend of tastes and textures, making it a perfect choice for cozy autumn dinners or as a festive option for special occasions. Join us as we delve into the history and details of this delicious recipe, showcasing the unique combination of sausage and pumpkin in a satisfying pasta dish.

Sausage and Pumpkin Pasta is a dish that embraces the flavors of fall and showcases the versatility of pumpkin in savory recipes. Pumpkins, a staple of the autumn harvest, have been used in cooking for centuries, and their use in pasta dishes has gained popularity in recent years.

Pumpkin, with its sweet and nutty flavor, pairs beautifully with savory ingredients like sausage. The richness of the sausage complements the earthy sweetness of pumpkin, creating a delicious balance of flavors in the pasta dish.

The history of pumpkin in savory dishes dates back to ancient civilizations. Native to North America, pumpkins were a significant food source for indigenous communities who used them in various culinary preparations. Over time, pumpkin found its way into the cuisines of different cultures, including pasta dishes.

In the Sausage and Pumpkin Pasta recipe, Italian sausage is commonly used to add a robust and savory element. The sausage is typically browned and crumbled, infusing the dish with its flavorful juices.

The pumpkin component of the dish can be prepared in different ways. Some recipes call for using fresh pumpkin, which is peeled, seeded, and cubed before being roasted or sautéed. Others utilize canned pumpkin puree for convenience and consistent results. Whichever method you choose, the pumpkin adds a velvety and slightly sweet note to the pasta sauce.

The sauce for Sausage and Pumpkin Pasta often includes aromatics such as garlic and onions, along with herbs and spices like sage or thyme to enhance the fall flavors. Additional ingredients like chicken broth, cream, or cheese may be incorporated to further enrich the sauce and create a luscious texture.

The cooked pasta is combined with the sausage and pumpkin sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together. The result is a comforting and hearty pasta dish that showcases the unique combination of sausage and pumpkin.

PREP: 20 MIN.

COOK: 15 MIN.

MAKES: 4 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or sauté pan, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into crumbles. Once cooked, transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess grease.
3. In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant.
4. Add the pumpkin puree to the skillet, stirring well to incorporate it with the onions and garlic.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors together.
6. Stir in the heavy cream, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another couple of minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
7. Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the sauce.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing well to combine and coat the pasta with the sauce.
9. Cook the pasta and sauce mixture for an additional minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
10. Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish the Sausage and Pumpkin Pasta with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
11. Serve the pasta hot, savoring the delightful combination of savory sausage and creamy pumpkin sauce.

NOTES:

• Indulge in the comforting and flavorful experience of your homemade Sausage and Pumpkin Pasta, relishing the unique blend of sausage and pumpkin in every bite. This delicious pasta dish captures the essence of fall, offering a satisfying and memorable dining experience. Enjoy the richness of flavors, the creamy pumpkin sauce, and the comforting presence of sausage in this delightful recipe, perfect for autumn gatherings or as a cozy weeknight meal.