Pumpkin is far more than just the headliner of the jack-o’-lantern show—it’s a kitchen superstar in disguise! If you’re anything like me, pumpkins have a sneaky way of finding their way into your life year-round. Maybe you’ve grown them, maybe you grabbed one at the market without a game plan, or maybe you’ve still got one lingering on your porch from Halloween, giving you that “I should probably cook this” vibe but you don’t have any recipes for easy pumpkin dishes.
A few Halloweens ago, I found myself in full-on pumpkin overload. I grew so many that I started handing them out like candy—some even went to farmers for their livestock (hey, at least the pigs were eating well!). But then, the next year, I declared it “Pumpkin-palooza.” I was determined to be the pumpkin chef, and let me tell you, I made all the pumpkin things. From pies to soups, dog treats and more, if it could handle pumpkin, I made it. And now, I’m sharing five of my absolute favorite easy pumpkin dishes with you.
The beauty of these dishes is they work all year long, especially if you start by making pumpkin puree and freezing or canning it for those “oh no, I need pumpkin!” moments. Whether you’re trying to use up that pumpkin in the pantry before it grows roots, or you just need a creative way to use your puree for a baking spree, these recipes have you covered and you’ll discover new ways to work with this fall favorite and pick up a few tips and tricks along the way.
Pumpkins are an ingredient you can enjoy throughout the year, and these easy pumpkin dishes prove that they’re anything but boring. Whether you’re making a creamy soup, a sweet muffin, or a hearty casserole, pumpkin brings something special to every dish. The versatility of this humble ingredient means that you can enjoy it in both savory and sweet forms, all with minimal effort.
If you’re feeling even more adventurous, consider making pumpkin pancakes, pumpkin angel food cake, or even pumpkin bread pudding. The possibilities are endless, and your meals will be all the better for it!
If you’ve ever caught yourself wondering, “What else can I do with this pumpkin besides pie or lattes?”—this is for you. Let’s dive in and let me share five easy pumpkin dishes that will become your new kitchen staples, no matter what time of year it is!
Feel free to share your favorite pumpkin recipes in the comments below—let’s keep the pumpkin love going!
And if you’re curious about growing your own pumpkins for future meals, check out our Pumpkin Gardening Guide for everything you need to know about planting, tending, and harvesting pumpkins!
