As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, our thoughts turn to the flavors of fall. And what’s more quintessential to the season than pumpkin? Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or savory dishes, there’s no denying the allure of this versatile gourd. From comforting soups to decadent desserts, we’ve gathered 20 delicious and easy pumpkin recipes perfect for the autumn months.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of pumpkin, exploring a range of mouthwatering options that are sure to become new favorites. From classic combinations like pumpkin pie and mac and cheese to innovative twists like pumpkin hummus and energy balls, there’s something for everyone. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to fall in love with the flavors of fall!
Easy Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk
Easy Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk: A comforting and creamy soup perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), cooked and pureed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in the pureed pumpkin, chicken broth, coconut milk, and ground cumin. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Pumpkin Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these deliciously moist pumpkin pancakes, topped with a drizzle of pure maple syrup for added flavor and sweetness. This recipe is perfect for fall mornings or any time you want to add a seasonal twist to your breakfast routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Maple syrup (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Pumpkin Spice Latte at Home
Cozy up with a warm and inviting pumpkin spice latte that can be whipped up in no time! This recipe combines the flavors of fall with the comfort of a rich, creamy drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee (about 2 oz)
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Sugar or sweetener of your choice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the coffee and pour it into a large mug.
2. In a small saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
3. Add the pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the warmed milk. Whisk until well combined.
4. Pour the spiced milk mixture into the coffee-filled mug.
5. Add sugar or sweetener of your choice if desired.
6. Stir gently to combine and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Easy Roasted Pumpkin with Garlic and Herbs
Roast a deliciously flavorful pumpkin with minimal effort using this simple recipe. Perfect as a side dish or used as an ingredient in soups, salads, and more.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2-3 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or rosemary)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the pumpkin in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds and pulp.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both pumpkin halves.
5. Place the pumpkin on a baking sheet, cut side up.
6. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender and caramelized.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs: A Twist on a Classic Comfort Food Recipe
This recipe combines the warm, comforting flavors of macaroni and cheese with the sweetness of pumpkin puree and crunch of breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly whisk in milk, pumpkin puree, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; transfer to a baking dish.
7. Top with panko breadcrumbs and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Simple Pumpkin Bread with Walnuts
This simple pumpkin bread recipe combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices with the earthy crunch of walnuts, making it a perfect treat for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and walnuts. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a serving plate.
Easy Pumpkin Risotto with Parmesan
Cozy up with this comforting and flavorful risotto, infused with the warmth of pumpkin and the richness of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a chilly fall evening or as a side dish for your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup roasted pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until softened.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
5. Gradually add the warmed chicken broth, stirring continuously, until the rice is cooked and creamy.
6. Stir in the pumpkin puree and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Pumpkin Hummus with Pita Chips
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and flavorful pumpkin hummus, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy addition to your lunchbox. This recipe is ready in under 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas
– 1/2 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Pita chips or veggies for serving
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, pumpkin puree, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
3. Blend until smooth, adding olive oil as needed to achieve desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve with pita chips or your favorite veggies.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (prep time: 2-3 minutes)
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Chocolate Chips
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Chocolate Chips: A sweet and comforting treat that combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the indulgence of chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Pumpkin Chili with Black Beans
This hearty, one-pot chili is a delicious twist on traditional chili recipes, incorporating the warmth of pumpkin and protein-rich black beans. Perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, pumpkin puree, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the water and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Pumpkin Muffins with Cinnamon
These moist and flavorful muffins are perfect for a cozy fall morning or afternoon snack. With the warmth of cinnamon, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, milk, egg, melted butter, and cinnamon. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta with Spinach
Elevate your pasta game with this seasonal twist on classic Alfredo, featuring roasted pumpkin and wilted spinach. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 cups), peeled and cubed
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss pumpkin cubes with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine roasted pumpkin, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the pumpkin Alfredo sauce.
5. Stir in fresh spinach leaves until wilted. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easy Pumpkin Smoothie with Banana
Start your day with a refreshing and nutritious smoothie that combines the warmth of pumpkin with the natural sweetness of banana. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the banana, pumpkin puree, yogurt, and honey.
2. Add the cinnamon and blend until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust the sweetness or spice as needed.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
5. Blend again to crush the ice.
6. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Quick Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast that combines the flavors of pumpkin pie with creamy oats. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and easy breakfast that’s also healthy!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for topping
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, almond milk, pumpkin puree, honey, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Stir until well combined and all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Cover the jar and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours).
4. In the morning, give the oats a stir and add any desired toppings, such as whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice.
Cooking Time: None! Just let it sit in the fridge until you’re ready to eat.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Quick Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats!
Pumpkin and Sage Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this seasonal recipe that combines the warmth of pumpkin and the earthiness of sage. These stuffed shells are perfect for a cozy fall or winter dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 small pumpkin, cooked and mashed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed pumpkin, butter, garlic, Parmesan cheese, sage, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the pumpkin mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until shells are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Pumpkin Cheesecake Dip with Graham Crackers
Add a seasonal twist to your snack time with this creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip served with crunchy graham crackers. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a cozy treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Graham crackers, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add the sugar and mix until combined.
3. Add the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled with graham crackers.
Cooking Time: None, as this dip is served cold.
Enjoy your delicious and easy pumpkin cheesecake dip!
Simple Pumpkin Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce
Experience the warmth of fall with this delightful combination of homemade pumpkin ravioli and rich brown butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 package wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Brown Butter Sauce: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Place a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of pumpkin mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Moisten the edges with water, then fold the wrapper into a triangle to form a ravioli. Press edges together to seal.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook ravioli in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Meanwhile, make Brown Butter Sauce: melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in heavy cream and cook until sauce thickens.
8. Toss cooked ravioli with brown butter sauce and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin and Lentil Curry with Rice
This hearty curry combines the warmth of pumpkin with the comfort of lentils, served over a bed of fluffy rice. A perfect blend of spices and aromatic flavors makes this dish a delicious and nutritious meal option.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 medium pumpkin (about 1 lb), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, lentils, pumpkin, diced tomatoes, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve the curry over cooked rice, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy Pumpkin French Toast Casserole
Start your day off right with this deliciously easy and autumnal-inspired casserole that combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the comfort of French toast. Perfect for a cozy morning gathering or a quick breakfast on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 12 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
3. Arrange bread slices in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Pour the pumpkin mixture over the bread, making sure each slice is coated.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top (if desired).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quick Pumpkin Energy Balls with Dates
Get a boost of energy and satisfy your sweet tooth with these no-bake pumpkin energy balls infused with the natural sweetness of dates. Made with wholesome ingredients, they’re perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dried dates, chopped
– 1/4 cup creamy almond butter
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine oats, chopped dates, and cinnamon.
2. In a small bowl, mix together almond butter and pumpkin puree until smooth.
3. Add honey to the almond butter mixture and stir until combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
6. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None – no baking required!
Summary
Get ready for fall with these 20 delicious and easy pumpkin recipes! From comforting soups to sweet treats, there’s something for everyone. Try making a creamy Easy Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk or a batch of Simple Pumpkin Pancakes with Maple Syrup. If you’re in the mood for something savory, whip up an Easy Roasted Pumpkin with Garlic and Herbs or Pumpkin Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs. And don’t forget to save room for dessert – try making Simple Pumpkin Bread with Walnuts or Quick Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats. Whatever your taste, these pumpkin recipes are sure to satisfy.
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