If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that effortlessly combines the creamy richness of Alfredo with the warm flavors of fall, the Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish takes tender chicken and fettuccine noodles, then swirls them in a luscious sauce made from pumpkin purée, sage, and Parmesan cheese, creating a beautiful harmony of savory and slightly sweet tastes. Whether you’re craving a weeknight dinner that feels special or a welcoming meal to serve guests, this recipe brings that perfect balance of indulgence and hominess to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo Recipe plays a key role in building flavor, texture, and that inviting autumnal vibe. From the creamy pumpkin to the aromatic sage, each component is simple yet essential, working together to make this dish truly shine.
- 8 oz fettuccine: The classic pasta choice that carries the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and acts as the perfect base for sautéing garlic.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant punch that wakes up the sauce.
- 1 cup pumpkin purée: Gives a velvety texture and subtle natural sweetness that sets this Alfredo apart.
- ¾ cup heavy cream: Creates that luxurious creaminess essential for any Alfredo sauce.
- ½ cup Parmesan: Brings a salty, nutty character that deepens flavor complexity.
- 1 tsp chopped sage: Offers earthy, piney notes that complement pumpkin and chicken beautifully.
- 2 cups cooked chicken: Provides hearty protein and makes the dish filling and satisfying.
How to Make Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta well but reserve a little pasta water to adjust the sauce if needed later. This simple step lays the foundation for a perfectly textured dish that holds on to all that amazing sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the pasta cooks, melt two tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—about 1 minute—to avoid any bitterness. This step infuses the butter with garlicky goodness, creating an irresistible aroma and flavor base for the sauce.
Step 3: Add Pumpkin, Cream, and Sage
Now stir in the pumpkin purée along with the heavy cream and the chopped sage. Simmer gently, letting these ingredients meld into a smooth, creamy sauce that’s rich but not overwhelming. The pumpkin introduces subtle sweetness and depth while the sage heightens that cozy, autumn feel.
Step 4: Incorporate Parmesan and Chicken
Once the sauce is warm and thickened slightly, add the grated Parmesan and stir until melted and combined. Then fold in the cooked chicken to warm through. This creates a decadent sauce that coats every strand of pasta and every bite of tender chicken with luscious flavor.
Step 5: Toss with Pasta and Serve
Add the drained fettuccine directly to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated in the Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up just right.
How to Serve Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful finishing touch, sprinkle extra grated Parmesan over the plated dish and garnish with crispy sage leaves. The sage leaves can be lightly fried in butter until crisp, adding a delightful texture and intensified herbal aroma that elevates the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides like a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables. The freshness and acidity balance the creamy richness, making your meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this at a dinner party, consider plating individual servings in shallow bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for a subtle crunch. For a rustic vibe, serve family-style in a large, warm pasta bowl straight from the stove to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop more overnight, making leftovers a true delight to enjoy.
Freezing
While the cream sauce may change slightly after freezing, you can freeze the cooked pasta and chicken separately without the sauce for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and prepare fresh sauce to toss before serving.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently to heat evenly and maintain that beautiful texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is classic for Alfredo, you can swap in linguine, penne, or even tagliatelle without losing that luscious sauce coverage.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
The dish includes chicken by default, but you can easily omit it or substitute with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based chicken alternatives to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream or a cashew cream in place of heavy cream and a vegan Parmesan substitute to maintain the rich, creamy texture and flavor.
How long does it take to prepare this Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo Recipe?
From start to finish, this recipe takes about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners when you want something fast yet special.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir complements the creamy pumpkin sauce and sage beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about how the warmth of pumpkin and the earthiness of sage transform classic Alfredo into a dish that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. I can’t recommend this Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo Recipe enough if you want to bring a little extra comfort and seasonal charm to your dinner table. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to meal!
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Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pumpkin Sage Chicken Alfredo is a comforting and creamy pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin purée with earthy sage, tender cooked chicken, and classic Parmesan cheese, creating a cozy, autumn-inspired twist on traditional Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine
Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp chopped fresh sage
Protein
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the pumpkin purée, heavy cream, and chopped sage, stirring to combine and heat through.
- Add Cheese and Chicken: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the cooked chicken to the sauce, mixing well to coat evenly and warm through.
- Toss with Pasta: Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet and toss thoroughly with the pumpkin sage Alfredo sauce until well combined and heated.
Notes
- For an extra crispy garnish, fry additional fresh sage leaves in butter until crisp and sprinkle on top before serving.
- Add extra Parmesan cheese to finish each plate for a richer flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
- Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
