If you’re looking for a comforting yet nutritious meal that’s quick and easy to prepare, this Pumpkin & Ricotta Cheese Pasta is the perfect dish. Combining the rich flavours of baked pumpkin and creamy ricotta cheese, this pasta dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, this recipe is sure to become a favourite.

Jump to Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table fast. The sauce comes together in minutes while the pasta cooks, making it a great option for those short on time.
Nutrient-Rich: Pumpkin is a powerhouse of vitamins, particularly vitamin A, which is great for your skin and immune system. Combined with protein-rich ricotta cheese, this dish offers a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Comfort Food with a Twist: The creamy texture and warm flavours make this pasta a comforting dish, while the addition of pumpkin adds a unique and seasonal twist.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasonings or add other ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or even cooked chicken for extra protein.

Tips to Make This Recipe:

Save Some Pasta Water: Before draining your pasta, reserve a cup of pasta water. This starchy water is perfect for loosening the sauce if it becomes too thick and helps the sauce cling better to the pasta.
Make Your Own Pumpkin Purée: If you can’t find canned pumpkin purée, you can make your own by roasting butternut squash, as I usually do for my recipes.
Blend the Sauce Thoroughly: For a smooth and creamy sauce, make sure to blend all the ingredients until they’re fully combined and smooth. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, pulse the blender a few times instead of blending continuously.
Add Some Greens: To make this dish even more nutritious, consider adding some fresh spinach or kale to the pasta just before mixing in the sauce. The heat from the pasta will wilt the greens slightly, adding more texture and flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do you bake your Pumpkin?

This is super easy to make and it’s perfect if you like me, can’t easily find pumpkin purée at the shop. Get a butternut squash, wash and place it on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, bake in the oven at 180ºC for 45 minutes or until when you insert a knife it goes in easily. Once it has cooled down, peel it, and use it in your recipes as needed.

Can I use canned pumpkin puree instead of baked pumpkin?

Yes, you can use canned pumpkin puree as a substitute for baked pumpkin.

What kind of pasta works best with this sauce?

This sauce pairs well with a variety of pasta shapes. Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine are great options because their shape holds onto the sauce well. However, feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this dish vegan, substitute the ricotta cheese with a plant-based ricotta alternative. You can also use vegan Parmesan or skip it entirely.

Can I add extra protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu would make excellent additions to this pasta, adding extra protein and making it even more satisfying.

How long does this dish keep?

Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.