Smoky Pumpkin Fettuccine Alfredo (Print version)

Creamy pumpkin fettuccine alfredo with a smoky kick comes together in 30 minutes for a cozy fall dinner.

# Ingredients:

For the pasta

01 - 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine
02 - Salt for the pasta water

For the smoky pumpkin sauce

03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
06 - 3/4 cup (180 g) pumpkin puree
07 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
09 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
10 - 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
11 - Salt and black pepper
12 - Fresh sage leaves, for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Boil the fettuccine in well-salted water until just shy of al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the starchy cooking water, then drain the pasta.
02 - Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
03 - Whisk in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, smoked paprika, onion powder, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth and let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes. Keep the heat moderate.
04 - Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan a handful at a time until fully melted and smooth.
05 - Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until coated. Loosen the sauce with reserved pasta water as needed. Serve hot with extra Parmesan and fresh sage on top.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served immediately while the sauce is silky and warm.