Creamy Pumpkin Tortellini with Sage and Parmesan Recipe

If you are craving something that combines cozy fall flavors with creamy indulgence, this Creamy Pumpkin Tortellini with Sage and Parmesan Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. Tender cheese tortellini bathed in a luscious pumpkin sauce, infused with garlic and fragrant herbs, then finished with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese creates a mouthwatering experience. Whether you want a quick weeknight meal or a way to celebrate the season with something comforting and special, this recipe delivers warmth, creaminess, and just the right amount of savory depth in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Creamy Pumpkin Tortellini with Sage and Parmesan Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the silky pumpkin purée adding natural sweetness and body, to the sharp Parmesan that brings a lovely salty tang. Together, they create a harmonious balance in both flavor and texture.

• 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini: The perfect tender pasta pockets that soak up all those lovely pumpkin flavors.
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter: A flavorful base that gently sautés garlic and enriches the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds bright aromatics that awaken the sauce without overpowering it.
• 1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling): Provides creamy texture and a subtle sweetness essential for this dish’s character.
• ¾ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half): Creates the luxurious creaminess that hugs the tortellini so beautifully.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a nutty, savory finish that melts into the sauce perfectly.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness of pumpkin and enhances all the other flavors.
• ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity.
• ¼ tsp nutmeg: A classic spice that complements pumpkin magnificently with warm, subtle spice.
• ½ tsp dried sage or thyme: Infuses earthy herbal notes that make this recipe so delightfully autumnal.

How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Tortellini with Sage and Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your refrigerated cheese tortellini according to the package directions. The salt in the water seasons the pasta while it cooks, and it’s important to drain it well once done to avoid excess water diluting your creamy sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Sauce Base

While your tortellini cooks, warm olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sauté for about 30 seconds—just until fragrant but not browned. This quick step is the magic moment where the sauce begins to build its layers of flavor.

Step 3: Combine Pumpkin and Cream

Next, stir in the pumpkin purée, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and dried sage or thyme to the skillet. Simmer the mixture gently for 3 to 5 minutes while stirring constantly, ensuring the sauce becomes silky smooth and the flavors meld beautifully together.

Step 4: Toss Tortellini in the Sauce

Add your cooked and drained tortellini directly into the skillet with the pumpkin sauce. Gently toss everything together so each cheesy pasta pouch is luxuriously coated. If the sauce feels too thick, just add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up—it’s a handy trick to get the texture just right.

Step 5: Melt in the Parmesan

Finally, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir everything until the cheese melts completely into the sauce, creating that irresistible creamy richness. This finishing touch elevates the entire dish with its nutty, savory complexity.

How to Serve Creamy Pumpkin Tortellini with Sage and Parmesan Recipe

Garnishes

For an eye-catching presentation and a flavor boost, garnish your plate with some fresh sage leaves, extra Parmesan shavings, or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. The fresh herbs add color and a delightful aroma that perfectly complements the creamy pumpkin sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple green salads like arugula tossed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts or butternut squash. These sides add freshness and texture contrast, rounding out a wholesome meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress guests by serving the tortellini in shallow bowls sprinkled with toasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of browned butter infused with sage. You can even turn this into a cozy fall pasta bake by layering the pumpkin tortellini with extra cheese and baking it until bubbly and golden on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Pumpkin Tortellini with Sage and Parmesan Recipe will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the tortellini may absorb some of the sauce overnight, so a quick stir with a little added cream or milk before reheating can refresh it nicely.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to one month. Place cooled tortellini and sauce in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream to restore its creamy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the tortellini in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a small amount of heavy cream, milk, or even reserved pasta water to bring the sauce back to a silky consistency without drying it out. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works great in this recipe—just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions and make sure to drain them well before tossing in the sauce.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and omit the Parmesan cheese to create a tasty dairy-free version. Using nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor if you still want that savory finish.

Can I substitute fresh herbs for dried sage?

Fresh sage is a wonderful upgrade if available. Use about one tablespoon of finely chopped fresh sage in place of dried for just a bit more brightness and aroma.

How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

If your sauce feels too thin, simmer it a little longer to reduce liquid. To thin it out, simply add more cream or a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency.

What can I add to make this dish more filling?

Adding sautéed spinach, crispy pancetta, or toasted nuts can introduce extra texture and richness. These add-ins also add nutrients and make the dish feel more substantial.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Pumpkin Tortellini with Sage and Parmesan Recipe truly captures the spirit of fall in a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a lovely way to bring warmth and indulgence into your kitchen with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. I guarantee once you try it, it’ll become a new favorite to revisit whenever you crave that perfect blend of creamy, savory, and seasonal flavors.

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