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This hearty Pumpkin and Mushroom Spaghetti delivers creamy comfort with earthy mushrooms and crispy bacon all in under 30 minutes. It’s the kind of dish that instantly wraps you in fall coziness, perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal. The pumpkin puree makes the sauce silky smooth while the bacon adds a smoky crunch that keeps every bite exciting.
I first made this recipe when I was craving something different for dinner on a chilly evening. The mix of pumpkin and mushrooms surprised my family, and now it’s one of our fall staples that everyone asks for again and again.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti: Choose based on your preference of regular, whole wheat, or gluten-free pasta for texture and health needs
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon: Gives smoky, crispy bites that elevate the dish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Optional for sautéing if needed to prevent sticking
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms add a richer flavor but button mushrooms work well too
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for aroma and added depth in flavor
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: Use pure pumpkin not pie filling for true earthy sweetness
- Half teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle herbal note
- Half teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides gentle smokiness that complements the bacon
- Quarter teaspoon nutmeg: Optional but adds warm spice that enhances pumpkin’s flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances all flavors in the sauce
- Half cup heavy cream: Or substitute with half-and-half for a lighter twist
- Half cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for savory richness
- Fresh parsley chopped: For garnish and fresh color
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until al dente. Reserve half a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining—it helps loosen the sauce later.
- Crisp That Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy and golden. Remove from pan and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the Mushrooms:
- Keep about a tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan for flavor. If the pan looks dry, add a splash of olive oil. Add sliced mushrooms and cook over medium heat for five to seven minutes until golden brown and tender.
- Add the Flavor:
- Stir in minced garlic and cook just a minute until fragrant. Then mix in pumpkin puree, thyme, smoked paprika, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture warm through for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld nicely.
- Make It Creamy:
- Pour in heavy cream and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer gently for two to three minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes silky smooth.
- Combine and Toss:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss thoroughly so every strand is coated. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the perfect consistency.
- Serve and Swoon:
- Plate the pasta and top with the crispy bacon, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a little extra Parmesan cheese because life is better with cheese.
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The star ingredient for me is the pumpkin puree—it gives the sauce this wonderful velvety texture that feels indulgent yet wholesome. One fall evening, this dish turned my skeptical kids into pumpkin pasta believers, and now it’s become our annual welcome-fall dinner tradition complete with cozy sweaters and pumpkin candles.
Storage Tips
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk on the stove to bring the sauce back to that silky smooth texture. Avoid the microwave if you want to preserve the best flavor and consistency.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter sauce without losing creaminess. You can omit bacon and replace it with toasted pine nuts or crispy shallots for texture if you want to keep the dish vegetarian. Fresh roasted pumpkin puree can be used instead of canned by roasting and mashing until smooth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta with a simple side salad dressed with lemon and olive oil for a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce. A crusty rustic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce on the plate. This dish also pairs beautifully with a glass of light white wine or a crisp apple cider to highlight fall flavors.
Cultural and Historical Context
Pumpkin pasta blends seasonal American fall ingredients with Italian pasta tradition to create a delightful fusion. Using pumpkin in savory dishes has roots in various cuisines around the world, but combining it with classic mushroom and smoky bacon creates an elevated comfort meal that embraces the spirit of autumn in home cooking.
Pro Tips
- Make sure to reserve pasta water—it saves the sauce from becoming too thick and helps it cling better to noodles
- Do not skip toasting the spices briefly with garlic it boosts their aroma and flavor in the sauce
- Add fresh parsley last for a bright herbal touch that cuts through the richness
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I make this without bacon?
Yes, omitting bacon works well. To maintain richness, sauté mushrooms in butter or olive oil and consider adding toasted pine nuts or crispy shallots for extra texture.
- → Is fresh pumpkin a good substitute for canned?
Fresh pumpkin can be roasted and mashed to replace canned puree. Use about 1 cup of smooth pumpkin puree for similar texture and flavor.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta for best results.
- → What pasta types are suitable for this dish?
Standard spaghetti works well, but whole wheat or gluten-free versions can be used without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- → Any tips for perfect mushroom sauté?
Cook mushrooms over medium heat without overcrowding the pan to achieve a golden, tender texture that enhances their earthy flavor.