Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Pumpkin Tortellini 🍁
Okay, confession time: I’m tortellini in love with fall pastas—and this Creamy Brown Butter Pumpkin Tortellini is the definition of cozy-meets-delicious! It’s silky, cheesy, nutty, and slightly sweet with the magic of browned butter and pumpkin puree, all tied together with herby sage and a big cheesy finish. It’s giving autumn candle, cozy sweater, and pasta night perfection.
This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, but it tastes like it came out of a fancy fall dinner party. Trust me—you’ll want to save this one for your pumpkin season lineup 🎃
🍝 Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break it down! Here’s everything you need to make this soul-warming dish:
- 1 lb tortellini (cheese-filled works best!)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 6 fresh sage leaves
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup pumpkin purée (NOT pumpkin pie mix!)
- 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan
- Fresh rosemary (optional but amazing)
- Salt, pepper, garlic/onion powder, paprika
- Pasta water (about 1 cup reserved)
🔥 How to Make Creamy Brown Butter Pumpkin Tortellini
This recipe feels fancy, but it’s actually super simple and beginner-friendly. Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:
1. Cook the Tortellini
Boil your tortellini in well-salted water until al dente. It only takes about 3–5 minutes depending on the brand. Don’t forget to save 1 cup of that starchy pasta water before draining!
2. Make the Brown Butter + Sage
In a large skillet, add 6 tbsp butter and cook over medium heat. Stir constantly until the butter turns golden brown and smells toasty—this takes about 4–6 minutes. Halfway through, toss in 6 sage leaves so they crisp up and infuse the butter. Remove a few for topping later!
3. Add Garlic & Cream
Add in 3 cloves of minced garlic and stir until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in 1.5 cups of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
4. Stir in the Pumpkin Purée
Once the cream is warm, whisk in 3/4 cup of pumpkin purée. Let it simmer again for 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Season to Perfection
Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chopped fresh rosemary and sage. Taste and adjust—this is where the magic happens.
6. Add the Cheeses
Stir in 1.5 cups of cheddar and 3/4 cup of Parmesan. Let it melt into a dreamy, cheesy sauce. Add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up if needed.
7. Combine & Serve
Add in the cooked tortellini and toss everything together gently. Let it cook for 1–2 more minutes so the sauce really hugs the pasta. Top with crispy sage, extra parm, and maybe a crack of black pepper!
🌿 Tips for the Best Pumpkin Tortellini Ever
- Use fresh tortellini: It cooks faster and has a better texture!
- Brown that butter: Don’t rush this part—it adds a rich, nutty depth that ties the whole dish together.
- Fresh herbs > dried: Fresh sage and rosemary bring major fall energy.
- Cheese matters: Sharp cheddar adds richness while Parm brings that salty umami bite. Don’t skimp!
🥄 Serving Ideas
This tortellini dish is a showstopper on its own, but you can totally elevate it even more:
- Pair with a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast
- Serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or butternut squash
- Add a protein like crispy pancetta, seared chicken, or toasted walnuts for crunch!
🧊 How to Store & Reheat
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or pasta water to bring back the creaminess.
- Not freezer-friendly once the sauce is made, but you can freeze the cooked tortellini separately.
❓Pumpkin Tortellini FAQ
Can I use a different pasta?
Totally! Ravioli or gnocchi would also be amazing with this sauce.
Is it sweet?
Nope! The pumpkin adds creaminess and depth, but the cheese and spices keep things savory and rich.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes—just ensure your cheeses are vegetarian-friendly and skip any meat toppings.
❤️ Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for that chef’s kiss fall dinner recipe that feels comforting, cozy, and just a little fancy—this Brown Butter Pumpkin Tortellini is it. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or showing off for a fall dinner party, it’s guaranteed to wow. So light a candle, pour a glass of wine, and dig in. You earned this one!
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