There is no denying that pumpkin and fall go together like bees and honey. From pumpkin patches, and homes filled with pumpkin decor, to Pumpkin Spice Lattes. The only problem is that your food options are either Pumpkin Pie or a pumpkin spice-flavored confection, usually a dessert, and usually one that does not even include pumpkin! Where is the love for the savory pumpkin recipes that show the versatile squash some love?
The first, and usually only, thing that comes to mind when people think of savory pumpkin recipes is soup, something akin to a butternut squash soup. Although pumpkin soup is amazing in its own right, we are looking for those things that bring fresh, innovative ideas to our kitchen table.
So, what’s a savory pumpkin recipe anyway?
Savory pumpkin recipes often skip out on the cinnamon and nutmeg to lean into the squash nature of the pumpkin and things that go well with it. Earthy herbs like sage, or cheesy elements like a tangy feta are great places to start.
There are so many creative ways to use pumpkins, everything from an added element for some flavor complexity to the star of the show. You can combine pumpkin into sauces for added nutrition and a new flavor, or you can use it in ways that feature the flavor of the pumpkin at the forefront like pumpkin pizza or roasted pumpkin.
What if I don’t like pumpkin flavor?
Be sure that it’s the pumpkin flavor and not pumpkin spice that isn’t for you. Because they are often a package deal, people often believe they don’t like the pumpkin, when it’s actually the spice. If you’re sure you don’t like pumpkin but want to give some of these recipes a chance, go for something that hides the pumpkin a bit.
Pumpkin has a subtle and light squash flavor which means it plays well with others and can blend in very well which works well for savory pumpkin recipes. Have some pumpkin puree from pumpkin desserts or leftover decor pumpkins you don’t want to go to waste? Try adding them to a sauce with plenty of other elements and let the other ingredients do the heavy lifting.
Savory Pumpkin Recipes You Should Give A Chance!
1. Roast Pumpkin with Feta and Honey
This sweet and savory mix allows the pumpkin to really show off its subtly sweet flavors. The roasted pumpkin is coupled with sweet honey and tangy feta to combine for a light delight that is perfect for lunch or a side.
2. Savory Pumpkin Stew
Simple but hearty is the name of the game with this stew. The stew provides all the heartiness and warmth that is needed from a stew and is balanced out by the addition of the pumpkin to make it perfect for a crisp fall day.
3. Flaky Pumpkin Biscuits with Garlic and Herb Butter
Looking for something that says fall is definitely here? Try out these cozy pumpkin biscuits. These grabbable delights are coupled with a delicious garlic and herb butter to round off the warm, flaky vibes. They are just what you need to go along with soup.
4. Gnocchi With Creamy Pumpkin Sauce
Gnocchi is always a good choice, year-round. So here is a seasonal twist. This creamy and herbaceous sauce is created with pumpkin to give it that subtle, earthy flavor that pairs so well with the spices and herbs.
5. Chicken and Pumpkin Dumplings
A perfect easy dinner night recipe, especially on a colder fall day, these chicken and dumplings are bursting with flavor. Making up a pot of this is sure to be a crowd favorite and you can have a spin on a classic to add to your rotation.
6. Pumpkin Ricotta Flatbread
Simple, but full of flavor, this pumpkin ricotta flatbread makes the perfect recipe for a pizza night, a lunch idea, or even a snack. The pumpkin and ricotta pair well together and make a stunning seasonal flatbread option that makes something amazing out of seasonal produce.
7. Pasta Bake with Pumpkin-Tomato Sauce
Pasta bakes are already some of the best dinnertime, potluck, and tailgate options you can try. This one is even better as it is chocked full of veggies but is so delicious, no one will be complaining. This cozy, cheesy, delight is also coated in an amazing pumpkin and tomato sauce that allows the acids and flavors of the two to play very well together. Did we mention it’s vegetarian?
8. Pumpkin Pizza
Sometimes you just want a really good pizza, so here is one. This cheesy treat is balanced with caramelized onions and crispy bacon for an all-around good dish. The subtle sweetness of the pumpkin plays so well with the subtle sweetness of the onions.
9. Mushroom and Cheese Stuffed Pumpkins
No pumpkin is going to waste over here. This recipe calls for the entire thing! Stuffed full this vegetarian recipe leaves you with an herbaceous and creamy treat that is all around everything warm and cozy.
10. Pumpkin Parmesan Rugelach
Pumpkin pastries are in no shortage during the fall, but what about a savory twist? Pumpkin and parmesan come together in this savory pastry that is perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side.
While the season of pumpkin spice and everything nice may have you believing coffee drinks and desserts are your only options, that is just not true. Plenty of savory pumpkin recipes are out there and can surprise you. Pumpkin is incredibly versatile which means it can get along well in plenty of forms and flavors.
If you aren’t big on pumpkin itself, consider one of the recipes that add it to a sauce or mixture to make it a nice, nutritious addition instead of the main ingredient. If you rather stick to letting the pumpkin do its things, well as you can see, you also have plenty of options!
Embrace the season with these delicious fall dinner and lunch ideas!
