15 Thanksgiving Recipe Ideas With Pumpkin

Pumpkin Soup With Sage and Cream

comforting pumpkin soup recipe

Pumpkin Soup with Sage and Cream is a warm, comforting dish that embodies the flavors of fall. Rich in taste and velvety in texture, this soup combines the earthiness of pumpkin with the aromatic hint of sage, and is finished with a touch of cream for added richness. It makes for a delightful starter or a lovely main dish during Thanksgiving gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Pumpkin puree 2 cups
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Onion 1 large, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Fresh sage leaves 1 tablespoon, chopped
Heavy cream 1/2 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
  2. Add the pumpkin puree and vegetable broth, stirring to combine; bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Stir in the chopped sage, salt, and pepper, and let simmer for about 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
  4. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches if necessary.
  5. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream; warm gently and adjust seasoning as needed before serving. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Soup with Sage and Cream!

Savory Pumpkin Risotto

creamy pumpkin risotto recipe

Savory Pumpkin Risotto is a creamy, comforting dish that captures the essence of fall flavors with its rich pumpkin taste and aromatic herbs. Perfect as a side dish or a standalone meal, this risotto is creamy and luxurious, making it a great addition to your Thanksgiving table.

Ingredients Quantity
Arborio rice 1 cup
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Vegetable broth 4 cups, warmed
Onion 1 small, chopped
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup, grated
Fresh thyme leaves 1 teaspoon, chopped
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
  2. Add the Arborio rice and stir for about 2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly.
  3. Gradually pour in the warmed vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and allowing the rice to fully absorb the liquid before adding more.
  4. After about 15 minutes, once the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the pumpkin puree, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through, then serve warm and enjoy your Savory Pumpkin Risotto!

Pumpkin and Spinach Stuffed Shells

pumpkin spinach pasta shells

Pumpkin and Spinach Stuffed Shells are a delightful twist on a classic pasta dish, bringing together the creamy richness of pumpkin, the nutrient-packed goodness of spinach, and the comforting texture of large pasta shells. This vibrant and savory meal not only fills you up but also adds a splash of autumn flair to your Thanksgiving table.

Ingredients Quantity
Jumbo pasta shells 12 shells
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Fresh spinach 2 cups, chopped
Ricotta cheese 1 cup
Mozzarella cheese 1 cup, shredded
Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup, grated
Egg 1 large
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Tomato sauce 2 cups
Fresh basil (optional) For garnish

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and let cool slightly.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, then remove from heat.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, sautéed spinach, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
  5. Fill each cooked shell with the pumpkin and spinach mixture, then arrange them in a baking dish. Pour tomato sauce over the filled shells and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
  6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  7. Garnish with fresh basil (if using) before serving and enjoy your Pumpkin and Spinach Stuffed Shells!

Maple Glazed Pumpkin Brussels Sprouts

seasonal pumpkin brussels sprouts

Maple Glazed Pumpkin Brussels Sprouts make for a deliciously seasonal side dish that combines the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts with the sweet, warm notes of maple syrup and pumpkin. This vibrant dish not only adds a pop of color to your Thanksgiving spread but also offers a delightful contrast of savory and sweet flavors that your guests will love.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts 1 lb
Pumpkin puree 1/2 cup
Maple syrup 1/4 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Pecans (optional) 1/4 cup, chopped
Fresh parsley (optional) For garnish

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, then toss them in a bowl with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20 minutes.
  4. In a small bowl, mix together pumpkin puree and maple syrup. After 20 minutes, remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and drizzle the pumpkin-maple mixture over them, tossing to coat evenly.
  5. Return the Brussels sprouts to the oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes, until tender and caramelized.
  6. If using, sprinkle chopped pecans over the top before serving, and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your Maple Glazed Pumpkin Brussels Sprouts!

Pumpkin Muffins With Cream Cheese Filling

pumpkin muffins with cream cheese

Pumpkin Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling are a delightful treat that perfectly capture the essence of fall. These moist, spiced muffins feature a creamy, tangy filling that contrasts beautifully with the sweet pumpkin batter. They are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a cozy snack during the Thanksgiving festivities.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Baking powder 2 teaspoons
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Sugar 1 cup
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Eggs 2 large
Vegetable oil 1/2 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Cream cheese (softened) 8 oz
Powdered sugar 1/2 cup
Milk 1 tablespoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix together the sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla until well combined.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
  5. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar with milk until smooth.
  6. Fill muffin liners halfway with pumpkin batter, add a dollop of cream cheese mixture, then top with more pumpkin batter to fill the liners about 3/4 full.
  7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Allow to cool before serving. Enjoy your Pumpkin Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling!

Spicy Pumpkin Chili

hearty pumpkin spice chili

Spicy Pumpkin Chili is a warm and hearty dish that perfectly combines the richness of pumpkin with robust spices and hearty beans. It’s a comforting meal that’s ideal for chilly autumn days and brings a delightful twist to traditional chili, making it an excellent addition to your Thanksgiving celebrations.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1 medium, chopped
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Bell pepper 1, chopped
Carrot 1, diced
Ground cumin 2 teaspoons
Chili powder 1 tablespoon
Smoked paprika 1 teaspoon
Canned diced tomatoes 1 can (14.5 oz)
Pumpkin puree 1 can (15 oz)
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Canned black beans 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
Canned kidney beans 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot until softened.
  2. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika; cook for an additional minute.
  3. Add the diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree, vegetable broth, black beans, and kidney beans. Stir well to combine.
  4. Bring the chili to a simmer and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your Spicy Pumpkin Chili!

Pumpkin Gnocchi With Brown Butter

pumpkin gnocchi with brown butter

Pumpkin Gnocchi With Brown Butter is a delightful autumn dish that combines the light, pillowy texture of gnocchi with the rich, nutty flavor of browned butter. This dish offers a unique twist on traditional gnocchi by incorporating pumpkin puree, making it a perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving feast.

Ingredients Quantity
Potato gnocchi 1 pound
Pumpkin puree 1/2 cup
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Egg 1 large
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Fresh sage (for garnish) Optional
Parmesan cheese (grated) Optional, for serving

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, egg, salt, nutmeg, and flour until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
  2. On a floured surface, roll the dough into ropes and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Optionally, roll each piece over a fork to create ridges.
  3. In a large pot, boil salted water and gently add the gnocchi. Cook until they float to the surface, then remove and drain.
  4. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it begins to brown. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing to coat in the brown butter.
  5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh sage and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your Pumpkin Gnocchi With Brown Butter!

Pumpkin Bread Pudding With Caramel Sauce

pumpkin bread pudding delight

Pumpkin Bread Pudding With Caramel Sauce is a sumptuous dessert that captures the essence of fall with its warm pumpkin flavors and rich, creamy texture. This comforting dish features delicate bread soaked in a spiced pumpkin custard, baked to perfection and topped with a luscious caramel sauce. It’s an ideal sweet ending to your Thanksgiving meal.

Ingredients Quantity
French bread (cubed) 8 cups
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Eggs 4 large
Milk 2 cups
Heavy cream 1 cup
Brown sugar 3/4 cup
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Caramel sauce For drizzling

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
  3. Gently fold in the cubed French bread, allowing it to soak in the custard mixture for about 15 minutes.
  4. Pour the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
  5. Let cool slightly before serving, drizzling with caramel sauce as desired. Enjoy your Pumpkin Bread Pudding With Caramel Sauce!

Roasted Pumpkin Salad With Pecans

roasted pumpkin salad ingredients

Roasted Pumpkin Salad With Pecans is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings the flavors of the season to your Thanksgiving table. This vibrant salad combines tender roasted pumpkin, crunchy pecans, and fresh greens, all drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. It’s a perfect complement to the rich dishes typically served during the holiday.

Ingredients Quantity
Pumpkin (diced) 4 cups
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Mixed salad greens 6 cups
Pecans (toasted and chopped) 1 cup
Feta cheese (crumbled) 1/2 cup
Balsamic vinaigrette 1/4 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Toss the diced pumpkin with olive oil, salt, and pepper on the baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the roasted pumpkin, mixed salad greens, toasted pecans, and feta cheese.
  4. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette before serving and toss gently to combine. Enjoy your Roasted Pumpkin Salad With Pecans!

Pumpkin Spice Pancakes

fluffy pumpkin spice pancakes

Pumpkin Spice Pancakes are the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of autumn during your Thanksgiving festivities. These fluffy, spiced pancakes are infused with pumpkin puree, warm spices, and served with maple syrup for a delightful breakfast or brunch option that will please family and friends alike.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Milk 1 cup
Eggs 2 large
Brown sugar 1/4 cup
Baking powder 2 teaspoons
Pumpkin pie spice 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Butter (melted) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, brown sugar, and salt.
  2. In another bowl, mix the milk, pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  4. Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet.
  5. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Serve warm with maple syrup and enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Spice Pancakes!

Pumpkin Cheesecake With Ginger Snap Crust

creamy pumpkin cheesecake delight

Pumpkin Cheesecake With Ginger Snap Crust is a deliciously creamy dessert that beautifully combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices with a crispy, sweet ginger snap crust. This delightful cheesecake is perfect for Thanksgiving, offering a unique twist on traditional pumpkin pie that is sure to impress your holiday guests.

Ingredients Quantity
Ginger snap cookies 2 cups
Unsalted butter (melted) 1/2 cup
Cream cheese 24 oz
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Eggs 3 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Pumpkin pie spice 2 teaspoons
Salt 1/2 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. In a food processor, crush the ginger snap cookies until fine crumbs form, then mix with melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the pumpkin puree, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt, and mix until well combined.
  4. Pour the pumpkin filling over the ginger snap crust in the springform pan.
  5. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set and only slightly wobbles.
  6. Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) before serving. Enjoy your Pumpkin Cheesecake with Ginger Snap Crust!

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies

pumpkin chocolate swirl brownies

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies are a decadent treat that combines rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with a luscious pumpkin cream cheese swirl. This dessert not only satisfies chocolate cravings but also celebrates the flavors of fall, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table.

Ingredients Quantity
Unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2 cup
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Unsalted butter (melted) 1/2 cup
Eggs 2 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Cream cheese (softened) 8 oz
Pumpkin puree 1/2 cup
Pumpkin pie spice 1 teaspoon
Additional sugar for filling 1/4 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  3. In another bowl, mix together cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, stir until just combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine softened cream cheese, pumpkin puree, additional sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
  5. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, followed by dollops of the pumpkin cream cheese mixture, then spoon the remaining brownie batter on top.
  6. Using a knife, swirl the mixture gently to create a marbled effect.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool before slicing into squares. Enjoy your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies!

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes

autumn inspired coffee cupcakes

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes are a delightful dessert that captures the essence of autumn with their fluffy texture and rich pumpkin flavor, complemented perfectly by a hint of warm spices and a decadent coffee glaze. These cupcakes are sure to impress your guests at Thanksgiving, offering a sweet twist on the classic pumpkin spice latte.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 ¾ cups
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Baking soda ½ teaspoon
Pumpkin pie spice 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar ½ cup
Eggs 2 large
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Vegetable oil ½ cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Strong brewed coffee (cooled) ½ cup
Cream cheese (softened) 8 oz
Powdered sugar 2 cups
Milk 1-2 tablespoons (as needed)
Ground espresso (optional) 1 tablespoon (for glaze)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, followed by the brewed coffee until just combined.
  4. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners and bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  5. While the cupcakes cool, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk (as needed for consistency), and optional ground espresso until smooth for the frosting.
  6. Once cooled, frost the cupcakes with the cream cheese glaze and enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes!

Pumpkin Risotto Balls

crispy pumpkin risotto balls

Pumpkin Risotto Balls, also known as Arancini, are a delicious way to utilize leftover pumpkin risotto. They are crisp on the outside and filled with creamy pumpkin flavor and cheese on the inside. Perfect as an appetizer or a side dish for your Thanksgiving celebrations, these risotto balls offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors.

Ingredients Quantity
Leftover pumpkin risotto 2 cups
Mozzarella cheese (cubed) 1 cup
All-purpose flour ½ cup
Eggs 2 large
Bread crumbs 1 cup
Salt to taste
Ground black pepper to taste
Vegetable oil (for frying) as needed

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Take the leftover pumpkin risotto and shape it into small balls, approximately the size of a golf ball. Make an indentation in the center of each ball and insert a cube of mozzarella cheese, then seal the risotto around the cheese.
  2. Set up a breading station: Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and bread crumbs in a third bowl.
  3. Roll each risotto ball in the flour, dip into the egg, and then coat with bread crumbs.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the risotto balls in batches until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Remove the balls and drain on paper towels. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving warm. Enjoy your crispy Pumpkin Risotto Balls!

Pumpkin Pie With a Twist

creamy pumpkin pie variation

Pumpkin Pie With a Twist is a delightful variation on the classic Thanksgiving dessert, combining traditional flavors of pumpkin and spices with an unexpected ingredient to create a unique taste experience. Instead of using just pumpkin puree, this recipe adds a layer of cream cheese that brings a rich creaminess and slight tang, making this pie a standout on your holiday table.

Ingredients Quantity
Pumpkin puree 2 cups
Cream cheese (softened) 8 oz
Sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar ½ cup
Eggs 3 large
Ground cinnamon 1 tsp
Ground nutmeg ½ tsp
Ground ginger ½ tsp
Vanilla extract 1 tsp
Pie crust (store-bought or homemade) 1 (9-inch)
Heavy cream (for topping) as needed

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sugars until smooth.
  3. Add the eggs, then mix in the pumpkin puree, spices, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared pie crust and smooth the top.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted comes out clean.
  6. Let the pie cool, then serve with a dollop of heavy cream on top. Enjoy this delicious Pumpkin Pie With a Twist at your Thanksgiving gathering!