Indulge your taste buds in a delightful autumn-inspired dish that combines the savory richness of bacon with the creamy goodness of pumpkin! Our Bacon Sage Pumpkin Pasta is a culinary masterpiece that brings together the best of Italian cuisine in just 30 minutes. Imagine twirling al dente pasta in a luscious pumpkin sauce, perfectly accented by crispy bacon and fragrant sage. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also a showstopper for your next dinner party or a cozy night in. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, place chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook bacon until crispy and golden brown, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Remove bacon from skillet using a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pan. Set crispy bacon pieces aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- In the same skillet with bacon fat, add chopped fresh sage and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, releasing its aromatic oils.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in pumpkin puree, mixing it with the bacon fat and sage. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Drain the cooked pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water. Add pasta directly to the skillet with pumpkin sauce.
- Toss pasta in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir to incorporate, allowing cheese to melt and create a rich sauce.
- Add crispy bacon pieces back into the pasta, gently mixing to distribute evenly.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with additional fresh sage and Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your Bacon Sage Pumpkin Pasta hot!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for a pasta shape that can hold onto the creamy sauce well, such as fettuccine or penne. This will enhance every bite of your dish.
- Crisp the Bacon Perfectly: For the crispiest bacon, make sure to cook it over medium heat and avoid overcrowding the skillet. This allows the fat to render properly and ensures even cooking.
- Enhance the Flavor: Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the pumpkin sauce for a warm, aromatic touch that complements the sage beautifully.
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve that pasta water! Adding a little at a time can help achieve the perfect creamy consistency for your sauce.
- Garnish for Presentation: Elevate your dish by garnishing with additional fresh sage leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving. It not only looks stunning but adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Make it a Meal: Pair your Bacon Sage Pumpkin Pasta with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
