Autumn is the season for warm, comforting flavors, and nothing embodies that more than a rich, creamy pasta featuring seasonal pumpkin and earthy mushrooms. Pumpkin & Mushroom Spaghetti with Crispy Bacon is a dish that balances sweetness, savoriness, and texture. The creamy pumpkin sauce clings perfectly to the spaghetti, while crispy bacon adds a salty crunch and mushrooms bring deep, umami notes.

This pasta dish is perfect for cozy dinners, holiday meals, or even a weeknight indulgence that feels special. The combination of pumpkin puree, cream, and Parmesan creates a silky sauce that is comforting without being heavy. Mushrooms provide heartiness and a savory backbone, and the bacon topping adds an irresistible crisp contrast to the soft pasta.

This guide will walk you through:

• How to cook spaghetti perfectly for creamy sauces
• Creating a rich pumpkin cream sauce without overpowering sweetness
• Sautéing mushrooms for maximum flavor
• Cooking crispy bacon and balancing flavors
• Full ingredients list and step-by-step instructions
• JSON recipe card for digital cataloging
• Pinterest-ready templates and Canva title suggestions

With this recipe, you’ll create a pasta dish that is not only full of fall flavor but also visually appealing and satisfying.

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Why Pumpkin Works in Pasta

Pumpkin puree adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture to pasta sauces without needing heavy cream alone. Its subtle flavor pairs beautifully with savory ingredients like bacon and mushrooms. Pumpkin also adds nutritional value—rich in fiber, beta-carotene, and vitamins—making it a healthier choice for a comforting meal.

Combining pumpkin with mushrooms creates an earthy, umami balance, while Parmesan cheese and cream bring richness and a silky mouthfeel. Adding crispy bacon ensures every bite has a textural contrast, keeping the dish exciting from start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Pasta

1. Cook pasta al dente: It will continue cooking slightly when combined with sauce.
2. Reserve pasta water: Helps adjust sauce consistency and keeps pasta silky.
3. Sauté mushrooms properly: Don’t overcrowd the pan; they should brown, not steam.
4. Crispy bacon: Cook separately and crumble on top for the best texture.
5. Balance flavors: Taste for seasoning; pumpkin adds sweetness, so salt and pepper are key.

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Variations & Enhancements

• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of heat.
• Herbaceous: Finish with fresh sage or thyme for extra depth.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in mascarpone or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit bacon and add toasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds for crunch.

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INGREDIENTS

Pasta & Sauce

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg

Mushrooms & Bacon

• 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced
• 6 slices bacon
• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil for mushrooms
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain pasta.
2. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove, drain on paper towels, and crumble.
3. In the same skillet, sauté mushrooms in butter or olive oil until browned and tender; remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic for 1 minute.
5. Stir in pumpkin puree, heavy cream, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–5 minutes until heated through.
6. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in pumpkin sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
7. Stir in sautéed mushrooms.
8. Plate the pasta and top with crispy bacon and fresh parsley.
9. Serve immediately while warm, with extra Parmesan if desired.

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