Ingredients
Brown Butter & Sage
- 6 tablespoons salted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves plus 2 teaspoons chopped sage
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- Pinch of chili flakes
Sauce
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- 1/3 cup apple cider
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded gouda cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 1 pound fettuccine or similar cut of pasta
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare Brown Butter and Crisp Sage: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter together with the 1/4 cup whole sage leaves. Cook until the butter browns and the sage leaves become crisp, about 4 minutes. Remove the crisp sage leaves from the butter and set aside for garnish.
- Make the Sauce Base: Reduce heat to low. Add the chopped sage, garlic, and a pinch of chili flakes to the browned butter. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the pumpkin purée and apple cider, and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add Milk and Cheeses: Slowly whisk in the whole milk until smooth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated parmesan, shredded gouda, and nutmeg. Season the sauce with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce. Cook together for 3 to 5 minutes on low heat, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Divide the pasta between plates and top each serving with the reserved crispy sage leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Notes
- For a richer sauce, use whole milk or substitute with half-and-half.
- To make this dish vegetarian, ensure the parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly or substitute with a suitable alternative.
- Fresh sage is critical for best flavor; dried sage will not provide the same aroma or texture.
- Adjust chili flakes to taste depending on your preferred spice level.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian