Roasted Pumpkin and Garlic Pasta

Name: Roasted Pumpkin and Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 500 g pumpkin (diced); 2 garlic bulbs; 2 sprigs rosemary; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 cup white apple vinegar; 2 cups small pasta; 3 cups chicken or vegetable stock; 50 g grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Juniper

Posted:

September 20, 2025

Updated:

September 20, 2025

Pin1

1 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Make the most of pumpkin season with this Roasted Pumpkin and Garlic Pasta. It’s a delightful dish that captures the essence of fall, offering a rich and creamy sauce that pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta. This recipe is not only simple but also perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Plus, it combines the natural sweetness of roasted pumpkin with the aromatic warmth of garlic, creating a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Wonder: This dish is made in one pot, making cleanup quick and easy.
Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of roasted pumpkin and garlic delivers a rich, satisfying flavor.
Versatile Meal: Great for dinner parties or a casual family meal; it suits all occasions.
Seasonal Delight: Celebrate pumpkin season with this warm, cozy dish that embodies autumn flavors.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious ingredients, this pasta is both delicious and wholesome.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Roasted Pumpkin and Garlic Pasta, gather your tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking dish
Large pot
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking for the pumpkin and garlic.
Large pot: Needed for combining ingredients and cooking the pasta efficiently.
Knife: A sharp knife allows for precise cutting of pumpkin and garlic.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right balance of flavors.

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pasta Sauce

500 g pumpkin ((3 cups) diced into medium sized pieces)
2 garlic bulbs
2 sprigs rosemary
3 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
1/2 cup white apple vinegar
2 cups small pasta
3 cups chicken or vegetable stock
50 g parmesan (grated)
salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Roasted Pumpkin and Garlic Pasta

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (390 degrees Fahrenheit).

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

Cut the top off each garlic bulb roughly 2 cm down so that the cloves are exposed.
Place the garlic, pumpkin, and rosemary into an oven-proof dish.
Drizzle with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Roast in the Oven

Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the pumpkin is soft and slightly caramelized.
Allow the garlic to cool, then squeeze out the softened cloves from their skins.
Remove the leaves from the rosemary stems.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients on Stovetop

Transfer the roasted garlic, pumpkin, and rosemary leaves into a large pot that can be used on the stove.
Add in the chicken stock, white apple vinegar, and small pasta.
Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium heat to maintain a gentle boil.

Step 5: Cook Until Done

Cook for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is tender and approximately 80% of the liquid has been absorbed. If necessary, add more chicken stock during cooking.

Step 6: Finish Off Your Dish

Remove from heat, stir in grated parmesan, then serve immediately with an extra sprinkle of cheese on top!

Enjoy your hearty Roasted Pumpkin and Garlic Pasta—perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Roasted Pumpkin and Garlic Pasta

This Roasted Pumpkin and Garlic Pasta is a warm, comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Basil: Add fresh basil leaves on top for a fragrant kick that complements the pumpkin.
Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens the dish and adds a splash of color.

Pair with Bread

Garlic Bread: Serve alongside crispy garlic bread for a deliciously crunchy contrast.
Focaccia: A slice of soft focaccia can help mop up the creamy sauce.

Add Protein

Grilled Chicken: Top the pasta with sliced grilled chicken for added protein and flavor.
Roasted Turkey: Shredded roasted turkey can be mixed in for a hearty twist.

Include a Salad

Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta.
Caesar Salad: For a classic touch, offer Caesar salad as a side option.

How to Perfect Roasted Pumpkin and Garlic Pasta

To ensure your Roasted Pumpkin and Garlic Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh pumpkin and garlic to enhance flavors.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pumpkin while baking; it should be caramelized but not burnt.
Adjust Liquid Levels: If your pasta absorbs too much liquid, add more stock gradually for desired consistency.
Experiment with Cheeses: While parmesan works well, try mixing in pecorino or nutritional yeast for different flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Pumpkin and Garlic Pasta

Accompanying your pasta with the right side dishes can elevate your entire dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

Garlic Knots: Soft dough knots brushed with garlic butter make a great finger food companion.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots roasted until caramelized add nutrition and texture.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil provide a refreshing contrast.
Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice offer a colorful addition to your plate.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds elegance and flavor without overwhelming the palate.
Crispy Polenta Fries: These golden bites provide crunchiness that pairs well with creamy pasta dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Roasted Pumpkin and Garlic Pasta to the next level.

Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your ingredients properly can lead to a bland dish. Be generous with salt and pepper before roasting.
Underestimating cooking time: If you don’t roast the pumpkin long enough, it may remain tough. Ensure it’s tender and slightly caramelized for the best flavor.
Overcooking pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Monitor it closely and cook until al dente since it will continue absorbing liquid after cooking.
Ignoring broth quality: Using low-quality stock can affect the overall taste of your dish. Opt for a good-quality chicken or vegetable stock for a rich flavor.
Not using fresh herbs: Dried herbs won’t provide the same depth of flavor as fresh ones. Whenever possible, use fresh rosemary for this recipe.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Roasted Pumpkin and Garlic Pasta

Freeze in portion-sized containers.
Can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Roasted Pumpkin and Garlic Pasta

Oven: Preheat to 180°C/350°F. Heat covered for about 20-25 minutes, adding a splash of stock if needed.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm throughout.
Stovetop: Add a splash of stock or water to a pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Roasted Pumpkin and Garlic Pasta.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute with any small pasta shape you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?

Nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative works well if you want a dairy-free option.

How do I add more protein to this dish?

Consider adding cooked chicken or turkey pieces just before serving for additional protein.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative, and ensure your stock is vegetable-based.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Pumpkin and Garlic Pasta offers a delightful combination of flavors that capture the essence of fall. Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding proteins or swapping out herbs according to your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try different variations; your taste buds will thank you!