This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy
Savory pumpkin recipes for sides and entrees to add some unique flavors to a thanksgiving party.
When you think of pumpkin recipes, pumpkin pie, or pumpkin spice lattes are probably the first things you think of, but let me introduce you to a whole new way of thinking about pumpkin – savory recipes.
Pumpkin comes from the squash family, so it makes sense that you can also treat it like a winter squash.
Enjoy our top 10 recipes for a savory pumpkin dish!
Table of Contents – Savory Pumpkin Recipes
1. Pumpkin Soup
Start simple with a classic pumpkin soup. Saute onions, garlic, and chunks of pumpkin, then simmer with vegetable or chicken stock. Blend it to creamy perfection and finish with a swirl of cream or coconut milk. Each spoonful is like a warm embrace on a chilly day.
This deliciously savory pumpkin recipe from Cookie + Kate features some warm spices to add more depth of flavor that I think you’ll enjoy!
2. Roasted Pumpkin
Cut your pumpkin into wedges or cubes, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with herbs like rosemary or thyme, and roast until tender and caramelized. It’s a side dish that can steal the show, bringing a touch of autumn elegance to your table.
This particular recipe includes a spicy touch of chili powder.
3. Pumpkin Risotto
This recipe uses chicken stock and pumpkin purée to cook the rice. The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and gorgeous color. Finish with Parmesan and a hint of parsley for a dish that’s like fall in a bowl.
This pumpkin risotto recipe finishes the dish with goat cheese and cranberries – a much welcome addition to a delightfully creamy dish.
4. Pumpkin Curry
Who says pumpkin can’t be spicy? Mix pumpkin cubes into a curry with coconut milk, spices and some veggies. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that brings a bit of heat to those cool autumn evenings.
What’s even better is this is a 1 pot dish! Get all the flavor without the mess!
5. Pumpkin Rigatoni with Rosemary Walnut Crispies
Toss cooked pasta with a delicious pumpkin sauce and top with homemade walnut crispies – you really can’t get too much better than this!
The walnut crispies are fantastic on their own and add a satisfying crunch to this pumpkin sauce recipe.
Mouth watering yet?
6. Moroccan Pumpkin and Chickpea Stew
Combine pumpkin with chickpeas, tomatoes, and Moroccan spices for a vegan stew that’s full of flavor and heartiness. Serve it with rice, couscous or crusty bread for a comforting, belly-warming meal.
7. Stuffed Pumpkin
Hollow out a small pumpkin and stuff it with a mixture of bread crumbs (or stuffing), vegetables, and sausage or a vegetarian alternative. Bake until the pumpkin is tender, and you’ve got a show-stopping centerpiece that’s as delicious as it is impressive.
This recipe also adds dried cranberries and apples.
Don’t go another fall or thanksgiving without this masterpiece!
8. Pumpkin Lasagna
Layer lasagna sheets with pumpkin puree, ricotta, spinach, and mozzarella for a creamy, comforting dish. The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness that complements the rich, cheesy layers.
9. Pumpkin Hummus
Blend roasted pumpkin with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice for a smooth, flavorful hummus. It’s perfect for dipping vegetables or spreading on sandwiches.
This recipe also includes a few spices to add if you’d like your pumpkin hummus to be a little on the hot side.
10. Pumpkin Gnocchi
Make gnocchi using pumpkin puree for a twist on the classic. Serve them with sage butter or a creamy sauce for a dish that’s like little pillows of pumpkin perfection.
If you haven’t made this you are missing out!
See all these recipes on my Pinterest board:
Conclusion:
Pumpkins are not just for carving or sweet treats; their savory side is equally enchanting. These recipes prove that pumpkins are versatile and can bring a unique and delightful twist to your autumn meals. So, embrace the savory goodness of pumpkins and let these dishes add some fall flair to your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking, and may your days be as full of flavor as a pumpkin is full of seeds!
