Pumpkin Stuffed With Everything Good is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the sweetness of baked pumpkin with a savory stuffing of bread, cheese, garlic, and a mix of herbs. This show-stopping recipe is ideal for fall and holiday gatherings, as the pumpkin becomes a beautiful edible bowl filled with delicious, warming flavors. With each scoop, you get a bit of tender pumpkin along with the rich, cheesy, and herb-infused stuffing. It’s a cozy, festive dish that’s sure to impress and is perfect as a main course or a unique side.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium pumpkin (about 3-4 lbs)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 3 cups cubed stale bread (about ½-inch pieces)
- 1 cup grated Gruyère or cheddar cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- ½ cup cooked bacon or sausage crumbles (optional)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- ½ tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream or milk
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped nuts or dried cranberries for added texture
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Pumpkin: Cut the top off the pumpkin and scoop out the seeds and fibers. Season the inside with salt and pepper and brush with olive oil or melted butter.
- Make the Stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, cheese, garlic, onion, bacon or sausage (if using), thyme, rosemary, and optional nuts or dried cranberries. Pour in the cream or milk, tossing everything to coat evenly.
- Stuff the Pumpkin: Spoon the stuffing into the hollowed-out pumpkin, packing it in gently. Place the pumpkin lid back on top.
- Bake: Place the stuffed pumpkin on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the pumpkin flesh is tender when pierced with a fork and the stuffing is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the pumpkin cool slightly, then slice into wedges or scoop out servings, making sure to include some of the tender pumpkin with each serving.
Enjoy this Pumpkin Stuffed With Everything Good as a beautiful, comforting dish that celebrates the flavors of fall, perfect for sharing at your next gathering!
