Cozy Autumn Pumpkin Pasta
Vegetarian · 8m+ · en
This warm and comforting pasta dish brings the best of autumn right to your family's dinner table. Made with a quick, mild sauce of pumpkin purée, cream, and a hint of nutmeg, it's perfect for tiny hands and hungry bellies.
- For adults and older kids, add a small dash of balsamic vinegar to your portion to beautifully balance the natural sweetness of the pumpkin.
- Stir in some finely shredded rotisserie chicken or white beans if you want to boost the protein content.
- If dairy-free, swap the crème fraîche for full-fat coconut milk and use a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.
- Prep
- 5 min
- Cook
- 15 min
- Servings
- 4
- Age
- 8m+
Ingredients
Watch how it's made
Steps
Boil the small pasta in a pot of water according to package instructions, adding a couple of extra minutes so it becomes very soft and easy for little gums to mash. Reserve a splash of the starchy pasta water before draining.
In a medium saucepan, warm the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the finely minced garlic and sauté gently for 1 minute until fragrant, making sure it doesn't brown.
Whisk in the pumpkin purée, tomato paste, crème fraîche, and a pinch of nutmeg. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it's bubbling and fully warmed through.
Add the drained pasta directly into the warm pumpkin sauce. Stir well to coat. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and a tiny splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to make it super creamy. Let it cool before serving to your child.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! You can roast or steam fresh pumpkin until very tender, then blend it into a smooth purée before using it in this recipe.
Is this recipe good for baby-led weaning?
Yes! The thick pumpkin sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, making it easy for babies to grab. Just ensure the pasta shape you choose is safe for your baby's age and eating ability.
Can I freeze leftovers?
The sauce itself freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. It's best to freeze the sauce separately and boil fresh pasta when you're ready to serve.
What you'll need
Shop this recipe
1 Tbsp Silicone Freezer Molds, Silicone Molds for Food, Freezer Cubes | Silicone Food Freezer Tray, Perfect for storage Garlic, Soup, Ice Cube, Herb, Ginger, Pesto, Tomato Paste(Pink 2 pack)
$14
Buy on Amazon →
Plum Organics Teensy Snacks Soft Fruit - Mixed Berry - - Organic Toddler Food Fruit Snacks, 5 Count (Pack of 16)
Buy on Amazon →
KOMUEE 10 Packs 30 oz Glass Meal Prep Containers,Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids,Airtight Lunch Bento Boxes,Microwave,Freezer and Dishwasher,Gray
$43
Buy on Amazon →
Vtopmart 8 Pack Glass Food Storage Containers with Airtight Lids, Glass Meal Prep Containers, Lunch Office Meal for Microwave, Oven, Freezer and Dishwasher, BPA Free
$22
Buy on Amazon →
As an Amazon Associate, Parenting by Mama earns from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.
More ideas
Strawberry Smash French Toast Sticks
These soft, sweet, and perfectly holdable French toast sticks are packed with fresh spring strawberries. They take less than 10 minutes to make, and babies and toddlers will love dipping them in a little ricotta or yogurt!
Vegetarian6m+
Squishy Squashy Summer Tomato Pasta
This bright and easy summer meal uses sweet, fresh cherry tomatoes to create a simple no-cook sauce. Tossed with soft baby pasta and mild cheese, it's a delightful and nutritious lunch for your toddler.
Vegetarian8m+
Sweet Autumn Persimmon & Apple Mash
Celebrate autumn with this naturally sweet, belly-soothing steamed persimmon and apple puree, perfectly portioned and easy to digest for babies and toddlers.
Vegetarian, Gluten-FreeTiny Tasters (6m+)
Little Golden Pumpkin & Chicken Noodle Bowls!
This easy autumn recipe pairs naturally sweet pumpkin with protein-rich chicken and peas, all tossed with soft baby noodles. It's the perfect warming dinner for babies and toddlers, using seasonal squash to create a creamy sauce without any dairy.
Omnivore8m+
Creamy Spring Pumpkin Veggie Risotto
This easy, 30-minute pumpkin risotto blends creamy Arborio rice with sweet pumpkin puree and fresh spring vegetables. It is packed with Vitamin A and offers a fantastic texture for babies learning to chew, as well as a comforting lunch for toddlers and parents.
Vegetarian, Gluten-Free8m+
Squishy Summer Eggplant & Tomato Bowls
Inspired by Japanese summer harvests, this quick simmer of thin-skinned Japanese eggplant, juicy tomatoes, and ground pork turns wonderfully squishy and sweet. It’s perfect over rice or wagon-wheel pasta for little eaters learning to chew, or pureed as a savory baby sauce!
Dairy-Free8m+ & Toddlers