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Halloween Pumpkin Pasta

This playful Halloween pasta features a creamy, smoky pumpkin sauce infused with garlic and seasoned with nutmeg and chili flakes. The dish combines al dente pasta with a luscious pumpkin and cream mixture, topped with golden melted cheese for a cozy, spooky presentation. It’s a fun, customizable recipe that balances comfort and seasonal flair.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Halloween, Seasonal
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
  • 2 cups pumpkin puree preferably roasted for depth of flavor
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg freshly grated if possible
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes adjust to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • fresh herbs (parsley or basil) chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Sauté pan
  • Baking dish
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the pasta until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes, until it starts to turn golden and releases a spicy aroma.
  3. Add the pumpkin puree to the garlic and stir well, cooking for another 3 minutes. The mixture should become fragrant and slightly thickened.
  4. Pour in the cream and stir to combine, simmering gently for 5 minutes until the sauce is creamy and heated through.
  5. Stir in the cooked pasta into the pumpkin sauce, tossing gently to coat each strand evenly. Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and chili flakes, adjusting to your taste.
  6. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  7. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Place in the oven and bake until bubbly and golden, about 15 minutes.
  8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped herbs and an extra pinch of chili flakes for a pop of color and flavor.
  9. Serve hot, enjoying the creamy pumpkin sauce with the crispy cheese topping and a hint of spice. The aroma should be rich, smoky, and inviting.

Notes

Feel free to customize with other seasonal vegetables or protein. For extra spookiness, garnish with carved pumpkin or edible eyes.