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Creamy Pumpkin Tortellini Recipe

Creamy Pumpkin Tortellini Recipe

5 from 16 reviews

This creamy pumpkin tortellini recipe combines tender cheese tortellini with a rich, velvety pumpkin sauce spiced with nutmeg and enhanced by Parmesan cheese. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for autumn or any time you crave a cozy pasta meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 18 ounces cheese tortellini (refrigerated variety)

Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 tablespoons finely chopped onion
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • 1 1/4 cups half-and-half
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook tortellini: Prepare the cheese tortellini according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta but reserve ½ cup of the pasta water for later use.
  2. Sauté aromatics: In a nonstick skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking while stirring occasionally for about two minutes or until the onion is tender.
  3. Add pumpkin and spice: Stir in the pumpkin puree and a pinch of nutmeg, mixing well to combine the flavors.
  4. Add half-and-half and boil: Pour in the half-and-half and bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring the sauce is well blended.
  5. Simmer sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about four to five minutes or until it thickens slightly.
  6. Incorporate cheese and season: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste to enhance the flavors.
  7. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked tortellini back into the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce and coat the pasta perfectly. Sprinkle minced fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese on top.
  8. Serve: Serve the creamy pumpkin tortellini immediately while warm for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Use refrigerated cheese tortellini for convenience and optimal texture.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
  • Freshly minced garlic and onion add depth to the sauce; adjust amounts to taste.
  • Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley for an appealing presentation.
  • This dish pairs nicely with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently to prevent sauce separation.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin tortellini, creamy pasta, fall recipes, comfort food, vegetarian pasta, easy dinner