When it comes to seasonal vegetables like pumpkins, you can make a variety of dishes with them, scrumptious desserts and cakes to savory curries and pasta.
Pumpkins are a favorite of mine, as they always bring a warm and satisfying flavor to any dish.
Whenever pumpkin season arrives, I become more creative and experiment with ingredients to craft the best pumpkin recipe.
If you’re a pumpkin enthusiast looking to try something new and exciting, this roundup is perfect for you.
These recipes are quick to make and are sure to impress your family and guests at fall gatherings.
1- Creamy Pumpkin Pasta
Pumpkin pasta is a unique and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall. This creamy, savory dish is sure to impress your dinner guests.
Cook your favorite pasta until al dente. In a separate pan, sauté garlic in butter, then add pumpkin puree, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce and serve with fresh herbs and extra cheese on top.
2- Pumpkin Risotto
Pumpkin risotto is a creamy, dish that showcases the sweet and earthy flavors of pumpkin. It’s a sophisticated side dish or main course.
Begin by sautéing onions and garlic in butter. Add Arborio rice and cook until slightly toasted. Gradually add warm chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly, until the rice is creamy and cooked through. Stir in pumpkin puree, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of sage.
Serve hot with extra cheese on top.
3- Smoky Slow Cooker Pumpkin Turkey Chili (Cozy Fall Comfort Food!)
Pumpkin chili is perfect for a cool autumn evening. The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and richness to the chili.
Brown ground beef or turkey in a pot, then add onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Stir in canned tomatoes, pumpkin puree, beans, and spices like chili powder and cumin.
Simmer until the flavors meld together, then serve with your favorite chili toppings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey (lean)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained & rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp chipotle chili powder (for extra smokiness & heat)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro & shredded cheese (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Turkey
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground turkey and cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes.
- Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Build the Flavor
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato paste, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and chipotle chili powder. Cook for 1 minute to release flavors.
- Transfer mixture to the slow cooker.
- Slow Cook
- Add pumpkin puree, beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
- Finish & Serve
- Stir in lime juice before serving.
- Garnish with cilantro, shredded cheese, avocado slices, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
4- Pumpkin Lasagna
Try Pumpkin lasagna a twist on the classic Italian dish, combining layers of creamy pumpkin puree, savory Italian sausage or ground beef, and gooey cheese.
This seasonal variation brings a comforting richness, perfect for cozy fall evenings or festive gatherings.
5- Pumpkin ravioli with brown butter sauce and pecans
Pumpkin ravioli with brown butter sauce and pecans combine the velvety texture of pumpkin-filled pasta with the nutty richness of brown butter and the crunch of toasted pecans.
This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. It’s an ideal choice for a cozy autumn dinner.
6- Pumpkin and Sweet Potato Soup
Pumpkin soup is a comforting and creamy dish.
Often seasoned with warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, this soup is perfect for chilly autumn days or festive gatherings.
You can enjoy it as a starter or a light meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups pumpkin puree (or roasted pumpkin)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup coconut milk or heavy cream (for creaminess)
- Pumpkin seeds or fresh herbs, for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Stir in pumpkin puree and sweet potato cubes. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Add broth, cinnamon, nutmeg, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in coconut milk or cream, adjust seasoning, and let simmer for another 2 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with pumpkin seeds or fresh herbs
8- Roasted Pumpkin with Yogurt Sauce and Pine Nuts
Roasted Pumpkin with Yogurt Sauce and Pine Nuts is an autumn dish that combines the sweetness of roasted pumpkin with a creamy yogurt sauce.
The pumpkin is cut into wedges, seasoned, and roasted until tender and caramelized.
It is then topped with a smooth yogurt sauce, often flavored with garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs, which adds a refreshing contrast.
Finally, toasted pine nuts are sprinkled on top for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect side or light main course for any gathering or fall meal.
9- Easy Vegetable Pumpkin Stir-fry
Easy Vegetable Pumpkin Stir-fry is a nutritious dish that combines fresh pumpkin with vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots.
The pumpkin is cubed and sautéed until tender, then tossed with the other vegetables and flavored with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce for a delightful Asian-inspired taste.
This quick and easy stir-fry is not only packed with vitamins and minerals but also offers a satisfying crunch and sweetness from the pumpkin.
Perfect as a side dish or served over rice or noodles.
10- Smoky Pumpkin Mac and Cheese with Bacon
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is a twist on the classic comfort food.
To prepare this dish, the pasta is cooked until al dente, then combined with a sauce made from pumpkin puree, milk, or cream, and a blend of melted cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan.
Seasonings like garlic, nutmeg, and sage complement the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
This recipe is perfect for fall and winter, offering a cozy and satisfying meal that appeals to both children and adults.
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese can be topped with crispy breadcrumbs or bacon bits for added texture and flavor.
Serve it as a main course or as a side dish to accompany roasted meats or vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp ground mustard (optional, for tang)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup smoked gouda (or mozzarella, for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or extra bacon bits, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the bacon: In a large skillet or saucepan, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave 1–2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.
- Make the roux: Add butter to the skillet with the bacon fat. Once melted, whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to remove raw flour taste.
- Build the sauce: Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth. Stir in pumpkin puree, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground mustard. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add cheese: Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and gouda until melted and creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
- Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the pumpkin cheese sauce until well coated. Stir in half of the bacon pieces.
- Serve: Spoon into bowls, top with remaining bacon and fresh parsley. Enjoy warm!
11- Sourdough Pumpkin Rolls
Sourdough Pumpkin Rolls are an autumn treat that combines the sourdough with the sweet, earthy notes of pumpkin.
Made with a sourdough starter, these rolls are soft and fluffy, enriched with pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
These rolls can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter, making them a cozy addition to any fall meal or gathering.
12- Indian Pumpkin Curry
13- Mocha Pumpkin Spice Latte
This homemade latte is the perfect way to warm up on crisp autumn mornings. Skip the coffee shop lines and enjoy this seasonal favorite in the comfort of your home.
A cozy drink is made with espresso, steamed milk, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice.
Ingredients (Serves 2):
- 1 cup brewed strong coffee or 2 shots espresso
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ¼ cup pumpkin puree
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder or dark chocolate chips
- 2–3 tbsp maple syrup or sweetener of choice
- ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice (or ¼ tsp cinnamon + ¼ tsp nutmeg + pinch cloves)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
- Cocoa powder or cinnamon, for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat milk and pumpkin: In a small saucepan, whisk together milk, pumpkin puree, cocoa powder, pumpkin pie spice, and maple syrup. Heat over medium heat until warm, whisking to combine.
- Blend until smooth: Use a whisk or frother to create a silky, foamy texture.
- Add coffee/espresso: Pour the brewed coffee or espresso into mugs. Stir in the pumpkin-mocha milk mixture until well combined.
- Top and garnish: Add whipped cream if desired, and sprinkle with cocoa powder or cinnamon for a festive touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy a cozy fall beverage!
14- Spiced Latte Pumpkin Cheesecake
This pumpkin cheesecake is absolutely delicious! It’s incredibly creamy and rich, baked with plenty of pumpkin puree, warm spices, a brown butter graham cracker crust, and topped with a fluffy layer of whipped cream. It’s a must-have for your Thanksgiving table!
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or gingersnap crumbs for more spice)
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
Filling:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup pumpkin puree
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp espresso powder or instant coffee
- ¼ tsp salt
Topping (optional):
- Whipped cream
- Cinnamon or cocoa powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Make crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Press evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes. Remove and cool.
- Prepare filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until creamy. Mix in pumpkin puree, eggs (one at a time), vanilla, espresso powder, spices, and salt until well combined.
- Bake cheesecake: Pour filling over the crust. Bake 50–60 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off oven, leave cheesecake inside with door slightly open for 10 minutes.
- Cool and chill: Remove from oven and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve: Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon or cocoa powder. Slice and enjoy a cozy, fall-inspired spiced latte cheesecake!
15- Stuffed Pumpkin
Stuffed pumpkin is a dish that transforms a pumpkin into a centerpiece-worthy meal. You can fill the pumpkin with a mixture of rice, vegetables, sausages, turkey herbs, and sometimes meat or cheese, depending on your choice and taste.
You can roast or bake whole pumpkin until tender.
16- Pumpkin Fudge
Pumpkin fudge is an autumn treat that combines the creamy richness of traditional fudge with the seasonal flavors of pumpkin spice.
Made with pumpkin puree, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and sweetened condensed milk, this fudge melts in your mouth with every bite.
It’s an irresistible dessert for fall parties and holiday gatherings
17- Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Enjoy moist and flavorful Pumpkin Spice Muffins, are made with with pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a delicious streusel topping.
These muffins are the perfect blend of warm spices and pumpkin goodness, ideal for cozy mornings or a delightful afternoon treat.
18- Lebanese Pumpkin Hummus
Lebanese pumpkin hummus is a great variation on traditional hummus.
A unique twist on classic hummus, made with pumpkin puree, chickpeas, tahini, and warm spices.
The pumpkin puree adds a nice earthy sweetness and complements the chickpeas and tahini well.
19- Pumpkin Dip
A creamy and sweet dip made with pumpkin puree, cream cheese, and warm spices, served with graham crackers or apple slices.
20- Pumpkin Spice Protein Smoothie
Start your fall mornings with this creamy Pumpkin Spice Protein Smoothie! Packed with protein, warm spices, and pumpkin flavor, it’s perfect for post-workout recovery or a quick, nutritious breakfast during busy autumn days. Naturally sweet and satisfying, this smoothie will keep you energized until lunch.
Ingredients
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- 1–2 tsp maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- Ice cubes (optional, for a chilled smoothie)
Instructions
Combine ingredients: In a blender, add pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, almond milk, banana, protein powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup.
Blend until smooth: Blend on high speed until creamy and well combined. Add ice cubes if you prefer a chilled smoothie.
Serve: Pour into a glass, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or nutmeg on top if desired. Enjoy immediately!
I am a writer, editor, and publisher of Grillcuisines.com – an online blog dedicated to sharing grilling tips, accessories, and recipes to encourage more people to get outside and grill.
I’m off to find out the different types of grill foods, their seasons, and how to conduct outdoor cooking properly. I’ll also show you some of my grill-worthy cooking tools & accessories!
