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As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, many of us start to crave the warm, cozy flavors of fall. There’s something undeniably comforting about fall-inspired dishes that bring to mind family gatherings, seasonal festivities, and the simple pleasures of home-cooked meals. One dish that beautifully encapsulates the essence of this season is pasta. Versatile and satisfying, pasta is an ideal canvas for a variety of flavors, and when combined with the rich, earthy taste of pumpkin, it transforms into a dish that is both hearty and wholesome.

Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Pasta

Warm up your fall evenings with this delicious Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Pasta recipe, perfect for busy lifestyles. This comforting dish blends the rich taste of pumpkin puree with creamy sauce and pasta, creating a wholesome meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. The slow cooking process enhances the flavors, while optional add-ins like spinach and cheese elevate the dish. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this pasta is a must-try for anyone craving autumn-inspired comfort food. Enjoy every bite!

Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

2 cups vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried sage

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (optional)

Freshly chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Base: In the bottom of your crockpot, combine the pumpkin puree, vegetable broth, and heavy cream. Add in the diced onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried sage, ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed and the base is smooth.

    Add the Pasta: Sprinkle the uncooked penne pasta into the crockpot mixture, ensuring that it is fully submerged under the creamy sauce. This will help the pasta cook evenly and absorb all the wonderful flavors.

      Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set on low heat to cook for 4 hours. If you're in a hurry, you may set it to high and cook for about 2 hours. If possible, stir the mixture occasionally to promote even cooking.

        Incorporate Cheese and Spinach: Once the cooking time is up, remove the lid and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. If using the spinach, add it at this stage, allowing it to wilt in the hot mixture for about 5 minutes.

          Serve and Garnish: Now, portion the creamy pumpkin pasta into bowls. Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top for a beautiful finish and an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your warm, comforting dish!

            Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes | Servings: 6