Brown Butter Sage & Pumpkin Fettuccine Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, soul-satisfying meal that bursts with rich autumnal flavors, then you absolutely need to try this Brown Butter Sage & Pumpkin Fettuccine. This dish perfectly balances the nutty depth of brown butter with the earthy freshness of sage and the creamy sweetness of pumpkin puree, all wrapped in tender ribbons of fettuccine. Every bite feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, making it an irresistible favorite for pasta lovers searching for something unique yet comforting. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll quickly become your go-to fall dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create the magic behind Brown Butter Sage & Pumpkin Fettuccine, you’ll rely on a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect flavor, texture, and visual appeal of the dish, combining rustic charm with elegant richness.

• 1 pound Fettuccine: The broad, flat noodles are perfect for soaking up the luscious pumpkin sauce, but linguine or spaghetti work well too.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter: The hero ingredient that transforms into nutty, fragrant brown butter giving this dish its signature depth.
• 1/4 cup Fresh Sage Leaves: Roughly chopped, sage adds an earthy aroma that beautifully complements the pumpkin.
• 1 cup Pumpkin Puree: Use 100% pure pumpkin for silky texture and natural sweetness without added spices.
• 1/2 cup Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and savory notes to balance the creaminess; vegetable broth is a great vegetarian swap.
• 1/4 cup Heavy Cream: Brings rich creaminess to the sauce, making every bite indulgent.
• 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Offers a salty, savory punch melting into the sauce to round out flavors.
• 1/4 cup Toasted Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas): Adds delightful crunch and festive visual interest as a topping.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all the ingredients.
• Pinch of Nutmeg (Optional): A subtle spice that elevates the pumpkin flavor without overpowering it.

How to Make Brown Butter Sage & Pumpkin Fettuccine

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente—it should have a slight bite to it. Be sure to reserve about one cup of the pasta water before draining, as this will come in handy later to adjust the sauce’s consistency.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

While your pasta cooks, gently melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Keep swirling the pan or stirring occasionally; you’ll notice the butter begin to foam and then transform into a gorgeous golden brown with a rich, nutty aroma. This usually takes around 3 to 5 minutes but stay attentive to avoid burning. Once browned, take the skillet off the heat to preserve the delicate flavor.

Step 3: Add Sage and Pumpkin Puree

Quickly add your roughly chopped fresh sage leaves to the warm brown butter. Stir for about 30 seconds until the sage releases its wonderful fragrance. Then, fold in the pumpkin puree, mixing it thoroughly so that it melds with the aromatic butter and sage base, creating a velvety sauce that looks as good as it smells.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently to incorporate everything evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat, letting it thicken slightly for about five minutes. Now’s the moment to season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if you’re using it—the subtle warm spice will highlight the pumpkin without overwhelming.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained fettuccine directly into the skillet with your luscious pumpkin sauce. Toss the pasta well to ensure every strand is luxuriously coated. If the sauce feels a bit thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water until you reach that perfect creamy consistency that clings to your noodles just right.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Serve

Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt smoothly into the sauce. This last touch makes the dish beautifully creamy and savory. Serve your Brown Butter Sage & Pumpkin Fettuccine immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and a generous scattering of toasted pumpkin seeds for texture and visual flair. Now dig in and delight in the comforting flavors!

How to Serve Brown Butter Sage & Pumpkin Fettuccine

Garnishes

Topping your Brown Butter Sage & Pumpkin Fettuccine with freshly grated Parmesan and crunchy toasted pumpkin seeds not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely contrast in texture. For a hint of freshness, you can add a few torn sage leaves or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil to make the flavors pop even more.

Side Dishes

Since this fettuccine is richly flavored, pairing it with lighter sides balances the meal perfectly. A crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, or asparagus complement the dish beautifully. For protein, grilled chicken or shrimp seasoned with herbs like thyme or sage makes a hearty addition that won’t overwhelm the delicate sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant presentation, twirl the fettuccine into neat nests using a fork and ladle. Serve on warm plates to keep the sauce luscious longer. Alternatively, offer individual bowls with garnishes like crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for guests to customize. Adding edible flowers or microgreens gives your dish a stunning, restaurant-quality look that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, allow any leftover Brown Butter Sage & Pumpkin Fettuccine to cool completely at room temperature. Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. This makes a fantastic next-day lunch or dinner, as the flavors tend to deepen overnight.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 to 3 months. Keep in mind the texture may be slightly different after thawing, so freezing works best when you plan to reheat gently and enjoy it soon after.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir frequently to revive the creamy texture without drying it out. You can also microwave leftovers on medium power, but be careful not to overcook, which can make the sauce separate or the pasta tough.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, canned pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that will alter the flavor and texture of your dish. For an authentic taste, always use 100% pumpkin puree without any extras.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. Going vegan? Use plant-based butter and cream alternatives, and replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese substitute for similar richness.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Roasted butternut squash cubes, sautéed spinach, or kale are all wonderful additions that enhance the texture and nutrition. Just fold them in with the pasta and sauce before serving for extra color and flavor.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Of course! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage shine alongside this pasta. Cook your protein separately with complementary herbs like thyme or sage, then stir them into the pasta when combining with the sauce for a satisfying, complete meal.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can! Cook the pasta and make the pumpkin sauce separately and store them in their own containers in the fridge. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce, warm the pasta, and toss together. This method keeps textures intact and flavors fresh.

Final Thoughts

If you want to indulge in a dish that truly captures the essence of fall comfort food, the Brown Butter Sage & Pumpkin Fettuccine is an absolute must-try. Its rich, savory-sweet balance paired with creamy texture is delightfully satisfying and surprisingly simple to pull together. Whether for a weeknight treat or a festive gathering, this recipe shines with every forkful. So go ahead, embrace the cozy season with this unforgettable pasta—it’s destined to become one of your favorites!

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