Creamy Pumpkin and Spinach Penne
This Creamy Pumpkin and Spinach Penne is a rich and flavorful dish that combines velvety pumpkin sauce with fresh spinach and tender penne pasta. The natural sweetness of pumpkin blends beautifully with garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of nutmeg, creating a warm and comforting meal perfect for fall or any time you crave something creamy yet nutritious.
Time Required:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
(Serves 2-3)
For the Pasta:
200g (7 oz) penne pasta
1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 cup (240g) pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
½ cup (120ml) vegetable broth
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream or milk (for a lighter version)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
1.Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2.Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3.Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2️⃣ Saute the Garlic
1.Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2.Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3️⃣ Make the Pumpkin Sauce
1.Stir in the pumpkin puree and vegetable broth.
2.Add salt, black pepper, and nutmeg, then simmer for 2-3 minutes.
3.Pour in the heavy cream (or milk) and mix well until smooth and creamy.
4️⃣ Add Spinach & Cheese
1.Stir in the chopped spinach and Parmesan cheese.
2.Cook for 2 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce.
3.If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
5️⃣ Toss with Pasta & Serve
1.Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
2.Stir in lemon juice (if using) for a fresh touch.
3.Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving – Approx. 1.5 cups)
Calories: ~450
Protein: ~15g
Carbohydrates: ~60g
Fat: ~15g
Fiber: ~6g
Sugar: 5g
Notes & Tips:
Pumpkin Puree Options: Use canned pumpkin for convenience or roast and blend fresh pumpkin for a homemade touch.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or crumbled feta for more protein.
Make It Vegan: Use plant-based milk and cheese substitutes.
Enhance the Flavor: A dash of cinnamon or smoked paprika can add warmth and depth to the sauce.
This pasta is creamy, comforting, and packed with nutrients.