Creamy Pumpkin & Sage Sauce for Ravioli – Easy Fall Pasta Recipe

Fall is the perfect time to cozy up with comforting flavors, and this Creamy Pumpkin & Sage Sauce for Ravioli delivers exactly that. Imagine tender ravioli enveloped in a silky pumpkin sauce, lightly seasoned with aromatic sage, and topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but feels special enough for guests. Warm, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners, this dish will quickly become a seasonal favorite.

Creamy pumpkin and sage sauce over ravioli, garnished with Parmesan and fresh sage

Recipe Info

CategoryDinner, Pasta
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Servings4
Calories~450 per serving

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 lb (450 g) cheese or spinach ravioli (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup pure pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a lighter option
  • 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 tsp fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried sage)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
  • Grated Parmesan or vegan alternative, for garnish

Optional protein add-ins:

  • 8 oz chicken sausage or turkey sausage, sliced and lightly browned

Step‑By‑Step Instructions

  1. Cook the ravioli according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, keeping them warm.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
  3. Add pumpkin and cream: Stir in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and broth. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Season the sauce: Add chopped sage, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Add protein (optional): Stir in cooked chicken or turkey sausage, allowing flavors to meld for 2–3 minutes.
  6. Combine with ravioli: Gently toss cooked ravioli in the sauce until fully coated.
  7. Serve: Plate the ravioli and garnish with grated Parmesan or your favorite vegan alternative. Enjoy immediately while warm.

Tip: Simmer the sauce on low heat to prevent burning and ensure a creamy texture.

Helpful Notes & Tips

  • For extra creaminess, use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk.
  • Fresh sage gives a brighter flavor than dried, but dried works in a pinch.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to prevent separation.
  • Control the spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.

Recipe Variations

  1. Vegetarian: Use cheese or spinach ravioli and skip the sausage. Add sautéed mushrooms for extra texture.
  2. Lighter version: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
  3. Extra fall flavors: Stir in roasted butternut squash cubes or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
  • A simple drizzle of balsamic glaze over the finished dish adds a sweet tangy note.
  • Pair with roasted autumn vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Creamy Pumpkin & Sage Sauce for Ravioli is the ultimate cozy fall dinner: simple, flavorful, and full of seasonal charm. Perfect for family dinners or a quiet night in, it’s a dish you’ll return to year after year. Gather your loved ones, plate it up, and enjoy every creamy, comforting bite.