As the leaves crunch underfoot and a brisk chill fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a hearty meal to lift the spirit. Enter my Creamy Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti with Crispy Bacon, a delightful twist on comfort food that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. This recipe, with its luscious sauce and rich flavors, comes together in just 30 minutes—making it perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or impressing friends at a seasonal gathering. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate vegetarian and dairy-free friends without sacrificing taste. Who else is ready to dive into a comforting bowl of this fall-inspired goodness?
Why is this recipe a fall favorite?
Comforting Warmth: This creamy pumpkin & mushroom spaghetti embodies the essence of autumn cooking, delivering a bowl full of cozy richness that warms both the heart and soul.
Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can create a delightful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering.
Flavorful Depth: The combination of mushrooms, savory bacon, and spices creates a dish with layers of delicious flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Versatile Options: Whether you want a vegetarian twist or a lighter version, it’s easy to adapt this recipe while retaining its amazing taste.
Impressive Presentation: With vibrant colors and garnishes like fresh parsley, this dish not only tastes good but also looks fantastic on any dinner table.
Dive into this comforting recipe and serve it alongside a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a complete experience!
Ingredients for Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti
For the Pasta
• 12 oz spaghetti – The foundation of this dish; feel free to swap for whole wheat or gluten-free options for a healthier touch.
For the Bacon
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon – Adds a savory crunch; turkey bacon is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option or omit entirely for a vegetarian version.
For the Sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional) – Aids in sautéing mushrooms; use only if bacon grease needs supplementing.
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced – Offers earthy umami flavor; varieties like cremini or shiitake elevate the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for flavor; fresh garlic enhances the aroma beautifully.
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree – Creates the creamy base; fresh roasted pumpkin makes for a delightful substitution.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – Infuses an earthy note; feel free to use fresh thyme for added brightness.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – Provides a subtle smokiness to the dish; adjust to your taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional) – Adds depth and warmth; use sparingly.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for proper seasoning; adjust to your preference.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – Introduces richness to the sauce; oat or almond milk works well for a lower-calorie version.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Brings creaminess and umami; replace with nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
For Garnish
• Fresh parsley, chopped – Brightens and adds fresh flavor; plus, it’s gorgeous on top of your dish!
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking and relish this cozy Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti with Crispy Bacon!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti with Crispy Bacon
Step 1: Cook Spaghetti
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add 12 oz of spaghetti and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Just before draining, remember to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water—this will help adjust the sauce later.
Step 2: Cook Bacon
In a large skillet, place 6 slices of thick-cut bacon over medium heat. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease. Let it cool before crumbling into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Sauté Mushrooms
Drain most of the bacon grease from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add 2 cups of sliced mushrooms to the pan and sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the mushrooms turn golden brown and release their moisture, creating a lovely aroma.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
With the mushrooms browned, stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Keep stirring to prevent the garlic from burning. This step will infuse the pumpkin & mushroom spaghetti with wonderful flavors that complement the earthy mushrooms perfectly.
Step 5: Make Sauce
Incorporate 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree into the skillet with the mushrooms and garlic. Add 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well, then pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once your sauce is ready, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to coat the pasta in the creamy pumpkin sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 7: Serve
To serve, divide the pumpkin & mushroom spaghetti among bowls. Top generously with the crumbled crispy bacon, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and add an extra layer of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this comforting dish warm, and savor the flavors of autumn!
What to Serve with Creamy Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti with Crispy Bacon
As cool autumn evenings beckon, pairing this delightful pasta with complimentary sides will create a lovely, cozy feast.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery crunch of garlic bread offers a perfect vehicle for scooping up each creamy bite, enhancing the comfort of your meal.
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Mixed Greens Salad: A bright salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta, balancing flavors and textures beautifully.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These provide a nutty crunch that complements the umami of the mushrooms, while their caramelization mirrors the roasted flavors of fall.
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Sautéed Kale: Tender, garlicky sautéed kale adds a nutritious touch, bringing in earthy notes that harmonize with the dish without overpowering it.
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Crispy Apple Chips: For a sweet element, serve crispy apple chips on the side. Their crunchiness and sweetness play wonderfully alongside the savory dish.
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Chardonnay: A glass of crisp Chardonnay accentuates the rich creaminess of the spaghetti, rounding out the calming autumn experience.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti
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Perfectly Cook Pasta: Always cook your spaghetti al dente; it continues to soften in the sauce. This keeps the pasta firm and adds to the dish’s texture.
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Save That Water: Reserve the 1/2 cup of pasta water! It’s crucial for adjusting the sauce’s consistency and ensuring it clings beautifully to the pumpkin & mushroom spaghetti.
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Mushroom Magic: Avoid overcrowding the skillet while sautéing mushrooms; this allows them to brown and caramelize properly, enhancing their flavor and texture.
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Proper Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving! Adjust salt and pepper as needed to elevate the creamy pumpkin flavors and achieve a well-rounded dish.
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Responder Substitutes: When making a vegetarian version, skip the bacon but add something crunchy like toasted walnuts for texture and depth without losing any deliciousness.
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Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow the pasta to cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If freezing, portion out the spaghetti in freezer-safe containers or bags. It can last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore the creamy texture of the sauce.
Room Temperature: It’s best to refrigerate or freeze leftovers within 2 hours of cooking to ensure food safety and maintain quality.
Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful recipe, enhancing it to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Vegetarian Option: Omit bacon and add toasted walnuts or crispy shallots for satisfying crunch.
- Other Pasta Shapes: Swap spaghetti for fettuccine, tagliatelle, or penne to change up the presentation.
- Additional Greens: Fold in fresh spinach or kale last-minute for added nutrients and vibrant color.
- Protein Boost: Include grilled chicken or white beans to elevate heartiness and add extra protein.
- Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute heavy cream and Parmesan with coconut milk and nutritional yeast to create a creamy, vegan delight.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like sage or rosemary instead of thyme for a fragrant twist.
- Heat Things Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Seasonal Variations: In winter, try adding butternut squash for a sweet, complementary flavor that’s just as comforting.
For more delicious ideas, you might love to explore our tasty Autumn Vegetable Pasta Bake or check out this Herbed Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells that pair wonderfully with the flavors of fall!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti with Crispy Bacon are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the spaghetti and prepare the creamy sauce (minus the bacon) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the cooked pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate, while the sauce can be kept separately for up to 3 days. To ensure quality, reheat both gently on the stove with a splash of water or cream to restore consistency before combining them. When ready to serve, just crisp up the bacon and toss it into the warmed pasta and sauce for a delicious autumn meal that feels effortless on busy weeknights!
Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti with Crispy Bacon Recipe FAQs
What kind of pumpkin should I use?
You can use either canned pumpkin puree or fresh roasted pumpkin for this recipe. I often reach for canned pumpkin as it’s convenient and smooth, but if you have fresh pumpkin, simply roast it until tender, scoop it out, and blend to achieve a creamy texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Allow your Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti to cool down slightly, then transfer it into an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This way, you can enjoy those delicious autumn flavors even after the main meal!
Can I freeze this spaghetti?
Absolutely! Portion your spaghetti into freezer-safe containers or bags and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s creamy texture.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No need to worry! If you find your pumpkin sauce is thicker than you’d like, add a little of the reserved pasta water (start with a tablespoon) while heating. Gently stir until you reach your desired consistency. This step is crucial for maintaining that luscious sauce everyone’s going to love!
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, you can easily make this a vegetarian-friendly dish! Just omit the bacon and consider adding toasted walnuts or crispy shallots for a crunchy texture without losing any flavor. It’s a lovely adaptation that still captures the cozy essence of this Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti.
Can my pet have any of these ingredients?
While some components of this recipe, like plain pumpkin, are safe for pets in moderation, be cautious! Ingredients like garlic and cheese can cause digestive issues for animals. Always consult your vet before sharing human food with your furry friends!
Cozy Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti with Crispy Bacon Delight
Equipment
- large pot
- Skillet
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Paper towels
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti Feel free to swap for whole wheat or gluten-free options.
For the Bacon
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon Turkey bacon is a great alternative.
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Use only if bacon grease needs supplementing.
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced Varieties like cremini or shiitake elevate the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances the aroma beautifully.
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree Fresh roasted pumpkin makes for a delightful substitution.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme Feel free to use fresh thyme for added brightness.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika Adjust to your taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg Use sparingly.
- Salt and pepper Essential for proper seasoning.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream Oat or almond milk works well for a lower-calorie version.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Replace with nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped Brightens and adds fresh flavor.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, place thick-cut bacon over medium heat. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until crispy and golden brown. Transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease. Let it cool before crumbling into bite-sized pieces.
- Drain most of the bacon grease from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add sliced mushrooms to the pan and sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then add canned pumpkin puree, dried thyme, smoked paprika, nutmeg (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well, then pour in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Serve the spaghetti in bowls, topped with crumbled bacon, chopped parsley, and extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy warm.