Easy Creamy Apple Walnut Pasta

Okay, I know this totally seems like a fall pasta choice, but the idea came into my head, and I wanted to test it out, and now at least it’s on the blog for when apple picking season comes right!?

I’ve cooked this apple walnut pasta with apples and shallots mixed into a creamy goat cheese sauce along with toasted chopped walnuts, fresh thyme, and my favorite new noodle… ditalini! It’s just so cute and adorable.

Make this apple walnut pasta today or save it for your fall recipe planning 

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• olive oil spray
• 12 oz of your favorite short noodle pasta, I used ditalini
• 2 tbsps butter
• 1 shallot peeled and minced
• 2 large apples peeled, cored, seeded, and diced (I used Fuji)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Healthy pinch of salt and pepper
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
• 6 oz soft goat cheese

How to Make Apple Walnut Pasta

Step 1:

Toast walnuts with a little bit of olive oil spray in a small nonstick pan over medium-low heat until crisp, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2:

Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to package instructions, then drain.

Step 3:

Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once butter melts, add the minced shallot, diced apples, dried thyme, salt and pepper. Toss to coat, then cook until the apples are soft and the edges are starting to brown, about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4:

Add in veg broth, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let simmer for about 3 minutes. Reduce heat to low, then mix in the goat cheese, then stir until melted and a creamy sauce forms.

Step 5:

Add cooked pasta and ¾ cup of the toasted walnuts to the pan, then stir to coat in sauce. Divide between bowls, then top with remaining toasted walnuts and some fresh thyme and enjoy!

KITCHEN EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Small non-stick pan
• Large pot
• Strainer for pasta
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Bowls for serving

WHAT TO EAT WITH CREAMY APPLE WALNUT PASTA

When I make Apple Walnut Pasta, I like to add a few tasty sides like a small green salad with a light dressing, or I make roasted carrots and baked Brussels sprouts.

I also enjoy a handful of toasted nuts. And of course, I love to serve Puree Garlic Potatoes, they are creamy and go perfectly with my pasta.

FAQ

What does the taste look like?

It tastes creamy, sweet from the apples, nutty from the walnuts, and a little tangy and herby from the goat cheese and thyme.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, you can try cream cheese if you like a sweeter flavor.

Are there other nuts I can use?

Sure! Pecans or almonds would be yummy.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it earlier.

Can I add more vegetables to the apple walnut pasta?

Absolutely! Spinach, peas, or roasted carrots would be delicious mixed in.

What if I don’t have shallots?

You can use a small yellow onion instead.

How long will leftovers last?

They will stay good in the fridge for up to 3 days in a closed container.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes!

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Yes!