Pumpkin isn’t just for carving during Halloween or baking into pies for Thanksgiving. This versatile, nutrient-rich gourd can be used in a variety of dishes, both sweet and savory, that are perfect for any time of the year. Here are 14 of the easiest recipes you can make with pumpkin, whether you’re using fresh pumpkin or the convenient canned variety.
1. Pumpkin Pancakes
Start your day with a stack of fluffy pumpkin pancakes. Just add pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg to your regular pancake batter. Top with maple syrup and a sprinkle of pecans for a cozy breakfast treat.
2. Pumpkin Soup
A warm bowl of pumpkin soup is perfect for chilly days. Sauté onions and garlic, then add pumpkin puree, chicken or vegetable broth, and a touch of cream. Blend until smooth and season with salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg.
3. Pumpkin Bread
Pumpkin bread is a fall classic that’s easy to make. Combine pumpkin puree, flour, sugar, eggs, and spices like cinnamon and cloves. Bake until golden brown and enjoy a slice with your morning coffee.
4. Pumpkin Smoothie
For a healthy and quick breakfast, blend pumpkin puree with a banana, Greek yogurt, a splash of milk, and a dash of pumpkin pie spice. This smoothie is both refreshing and filling.
5. Pumpkin Risotto
Pumpkin risotto is a creamy and comforting dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. Sauté onions and garlic, add arborio rice, and slowly stir in chicken broth and pumpkin puree until the rice is tender. Finish with Parmesan cheese and fresh sage.
6. Pumpkin Muffins
Pumpkin muffins are perfect for breakfast or a snack. Mix pumpkin puree into your muffin batter along with cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor.
7. Pumpkin Pasta
Create a savory pumpkin pasta sauce by blending pumpkin puree with cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Toss with your favorite pasta and top with crispy sage leaves for a delightful dinner.
8. Pumpkin Curry
Pumpkin curry is a deliciously spiced dish that’s easy to make. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger, then add curry paste, coconut milk, and pumpkin puree. Simmer until flavors meld and serve with rice.
9. Pumpkin Pie
No list of pumpkin recipes would be complete without the classic pumpkin pie. Use a pre-made crust and mix pumpkin puree with sugar, eggs, and spices. Bake until set and enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream.
10. Pumpkin Quesadillas
For a unique twist on a favorite, spread pumpkin puree on a tortilla, add cheese, and another tortilla on top. Cook until the cheese is melted and tortillas are crispy. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa.
11. Pumpkin Oatmeal
Pumpkin oatmeal is a comforting breakfast that’s perfect for fall. Stir pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and a touch of maple syrup into your cooked oatmeal. Top with nuts or dried fruit.
12. Pumpkin Cheesecake
Pumpkin cheesecake is a decadent dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. Combine cream cheese, pumpkin puree, sugar, and spices, pour into a graham cracker crust, and bake until set. Chill before serving.
13. Pumpkin Chili
Pumpkin adds a unique twist to traditional chili. Sauté onions, garlic, and ground meat, then add beans, tomatoes, pumpkin puree, and chili spices. Simmer until flavors meld for a hearty and delicious meal.
14. Pumpkin Ice Cream
For a cool treat, blend pumpkin puree with sweetened condensed milk, cream, and pumpkin pie spices. Freeze until firm and enjoy a scoop of homemade pumpkin ice cream.
Pumpkin is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes that are easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal, a sweet treat, or a quick breakfast, these 14 recipes will help you make the most of this seasonal favorite. Happy cooking!
