1-First Step: Mise en Place and Pasta Prep Start by setting up your ingredients to make the process smooth. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. While the water heats, measure the pumpkin puree, chop the shallots and garlic, and grate the cheese. This preparation helps everything come together easily for your pumpkin rigatoni.

2-Second Step: Cook the Pasta Add the 12 ounces of rigatoni to the boiling water and cook until just shy of al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve half a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. This water is key for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later in the recipe.

3-Third Step: Sauté Aromatics In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter melts, add 2 finely chopped shallots and sauté until softened, then add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for one more minute. This builds the flavorful base for your pumpkin sauce.

4-Fourth Step: Build the Pumpkin Sauce Pour in 1 cup chicken stock, 1/2 cup heavy cream, and 1 cup pumpkin puree, along with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and let it simmer gently. While the sauce cooks, you can prepare the crispy prosciutto in another skillet.

5-Fifth Step: Crisp the Prosciutto In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 4 ounces prosciutto and 2 sprigs rosemary, cooking in batches to avoid crowding until crispy. This adds a wonderful texture to your finished dish.

6-Sixth Step: Combine and Finish Once the pasta is cooked, add it to the sauce along with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. Cook together for about 2 minutes. For more pasta inspiration, try our chicken alfredo tater tot casserole for another creamy option.

7-Seventh Step: Serve To serve, crumble the crispy prosciutto and rosemary on top of the pasta. This step enhances the dish with a salty, crunchy contrast. Remember tips like cooking prosciutto in a single layer for even crispiness and using plenty of freshly ground black pepper to boost flavors.