Creamy Pumpkin Sausage Pasta with Parmigiano Reggiano

Pumpkin and Sausage Pasta (Pasta Zucca e Salsiccia)

Category: Main Course
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sausage:

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   • Start by removing the sausage meat from its casing. Use your hands to crumble it into small pieces.
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the sausage. Using a wooden spoon, lightly press it down and cook until browned and crispy, about 7-10 minutes.
   • Once the sausage is fully cooked, transfer it to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap to keep it warm.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • Peel and finely chop the onion into small pieces.
   • For the pumpkin, remove the seeds and inner fibers using a spoon, then peel off the skin. Cut the flesh into small cubes.

3. Cook the Pasta:

   • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the tortiglioni and cook according to the package instructions, making sure they remain al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.

4. Cook the Onion and Pumpkin:

   • In the same skillet used to cook the sausage, add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes.
   • Add the pumpkin cubes and mix well, allowing them to cook for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
   • Tie the rosemary sprigs with a piece of kitchen string and add them to the pan. Pour in a ladle of pasta cooking water to help soften the pumpkin and prevent it from sticking.
   • Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pumpkin is tender and has broken down into a mush. Remove the rosemary and discard.
   • Use a fork or potato masher to mash the pumpkin into a smooth puree. If needed, add another ladle of pasta water to reach your desired sauce consistency.

5. Combine Everything:

   • Add the cooked sausage back into the pan with the mashed pumpkin. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes to combine the flavors.

6. Finish the Pasta:

   • Once the tortiglioni are cooked and drained, transfer them directly into the skillet with the pumpkin-sausage mixture.
   • If necessary, add another ladle of pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly. Stir to combine well.

7. Add Cheese and Serve:

   • Grate the Parmigiano Reggiano over the pasta and mix it in until melted and creamy.
   • For an extra touch of flavor, you can sprinkle more rosemary or additional grated cheese on top before serving.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Plate the pasta and enjoy this comforting, flavorful dish as a main course. Perfect for a cozy dinner with loved ones!

This rich and satisfying pumpkin and sausage pasta brings together sweet, earthy pumpkin with savory sausage and creamy Parmigiano Reggiano, making it a perfect dish for any season. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to delight.