Meal Prep Monday: Pumpkin Palooza

Meal Prep Monday: Pumpkin Palooza

Get ready to dive into a whole lot of pumpkin love because, on this Meal Prep Monday, it's all about the Pumpkin Palooza! We're talking pumpkin in every form - savory, sweet, and everything in between. It's like a pumpkin party for your taste buds that you'll want to join any time of the year. So, roll up those sleeves, put on your favorite cooking tunes, and let's get cozy with these seven pumpkin-packed recipes. Whether you're meal prepping like a pro or just here for the pumpkin goodness, we're about to have a whole lot of tasty fun. Let's dig in!

Pumpkin Risotto

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, kept warm
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

  2. Stir in the minced garlic and Arborio rice. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the rice is lightly toasted.

  3. Pour in the white wine and stir continuously until most of the liquid is absorbed by the rice, about 2-3 minutes.

  4. Begin adding the warm vegetable or chicken broth, one ladle at a time. Stir constantly and allow the liquid to be absorbed before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is tender and creamy, which should take about 18-20 minutes.

  5. Once the risotto reaches the desired consistency, stir in the canned pumpkin puree and ground nutmeg. This will give the risotto a beautiful pumpkin flavor and creamy texture.

  6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the pumpkin is well incorporated into the risotto.

  7. Remove the risotto from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

  8. Serve the Pumpkin Risotto hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Pumpkin Curry

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups diced pumpkin or butternut squash
  • 1 can (14 ounces) of coconut milk
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1-2 tablespoons red curry paste (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

  3. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  4. Add the red curry paste to the pan and stir well to combine with the aromatics. Adjust the amount to your desired level of spiciness.

  5. Pour in the coconut milk, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

  6. Add the diced pumpkin or butternut squash to the pan. Cover and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender but not mushy.

  7. Toss in the sliced red bell pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are slightly softened.

  8. Squeeze the juice of one lime into the curry and give it a good stir. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  9. Serve the Pumpkin Curry hot over cooked rice or noodles.

Pumpkin Chili

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
  • 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking
  • Toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and cilantro

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of olive oil over medium-high heat.

  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

  3. Add the minced garlic and ground beef or turkey. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it's browned and no longer pink.

  4. Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, and ground cinnamon. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to toast the spices.

  5. Add the canned pumpkin puree, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, diced green chilies, and beef or vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

  6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.

  7. Season the chili with salt and black pepper to taste.

  8. Serve the Pumpkin Chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and cilantro.

Pumpkin Soup and Grilled Cheese Dippers

Ingredients:

For the Pumpkin Soup:

  • 2 cups canned pumpkin puree
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Grilled Cheese Dippers:

  • 4 slices of your favorite bread
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • Cooking spray

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 

    4 minutes.

  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  3. Add the canned pumpkin puree, vegetable broth, and ground nutmeg to the pot. Stir well to combine.

  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

  5. Stir in the coconut milk and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

  6. Season the pumpkin soup with salt and pepper to taste.

  7. While the soup is simmering, prepare the Grilled Cheese Dippers. Spread mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread. Place a handful of shredded cheddar cheese between two slices of bread, mayo-spread sides facing out.

  8. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with cooking spray.

  9. Place the assembled sandwiches on the skillet and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 2-3 minutes per side.

  10. Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute before cutting them into strips or dippers.

  11. Serve the Pumpkin Soup hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk and a sprinkle of ground nutmeg.

  12. Enjoy your comforting Pumpkin Soup with Grilled Cheese Dippers! Dip away and savor the cozy flavors.

Pumpkin Vodka Sauce and Penne

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup vodka
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it's al dente. While penne is cooking, make the sauce.

  2. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  4. Pour in the vodka and allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.

  5. Add the canned pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir well to combine.

  6. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken and the flavors to meld.

  7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it's fully incorporated into the sauce.

  8. Season the Pumpkin Vodka Sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.

  9. Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy pumpkin sauce.

  10. Serve the Pumpkin Vodka Sauce with Penne hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Stuffed Pumpkins

Ingredients:

For the Stuffed Sugar Pumpkins:

  • 4 small sugar pumpkins (about 2 pounds each)
  • 2 pounds ground sausage or ground meat of your choice
  • 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or a mix)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or sage)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for brushing

For the Spiced Cream Sauce:

  • 2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Cut the top off the pumpkin to create a lid. Scoop out the seeds and pulp from the inside of the pumpkin. Season the inside of the pumpkin with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

  3. In a large skillet, cook the ground sausage or meat over medium-high heat until it's browned and cooked through. Break it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

  4. In the same skillet, add a bit of olive oil if needed, and sauté the diced onion, diced bell peppers, and minced garlic until they are softened, about 3-4 minutes.

  5. Stir in the cooked rice or quinoa and diced tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.

  6. Remove the skillet from heat and add the grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and chopped fresh herbs. Mix well until the cheeses are melted and everything is evenly combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

  7. Carefully stuff the prepared pumpkin with the mixture from the skillet. Place the pumpkin lid back on top. Brush the outside of the pumpkin with olive oil to help it brown while baking.

  8. Place the stuffed pumpkin on a baking sheet or in a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the pumpkin flesh is tender when pierced with a fork.

  9. While the pumpkins are baking, prepare the Spiced Cream Sauce. In a saucepan over low heat, combine the heavy cream, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. Heat gently, stirring, until the sauce is warm and well-mixed. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

  10. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.Drizzle the Spiced Cream Sauce over the top.

  11. Serve your delicious Stuffed Pumpkin, spooning out portions of the pumpkin flesh with the stuffing.

Pumpkin Ravioli

Ingredients:

For the Pasta Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Pumpkin Filling:

  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Brown Butter Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6-8 fresh sage leaves
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the pasta dough by mixing the flour and salt on a clean surface, forming a mound with a well in the center. Crack the eggs into the well and gradually incorporate the flour into the eggs using a fork. Once the dough comes together, knead it for about 5 minutes until smooth. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

  2. While the dough is resting, prepare the pumpkin filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined. Refrigerate the filling until ready to use.

  3. Roll out the pasta dough into thin sheets using a pasta machine or a rolling pin. Cut the sheets into squares or circles, depending on your preference.

  4. Place a small spoonful of the pumpkin filling onto half of the pasta squares or circles. Top each with another square or circle of pasta. Press the edges to seal, ensuring there are no air pockets.

  5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli in batches for about 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

  6. In a separate pan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and fresh sage leaves. Cook until the butter turns golden brown and the sage becomes crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat.

  7. Toss the cooked ravioli in the brown butter sauce, coating them evenly.

  8. Serve the Pumpkin Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper to taste.



BONUS: Desserts

Pumpkin Cheesecake

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

For the Topping (optional):

  • 1 cup whipped cream
  • Ground cinnamon, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan.

  2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter.

  3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to create an even crust. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to press it down.

  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add 1 cup of granulated sugar and the vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Beat until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

  5. In a separate bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and ground ginger. Gradually add the pumpkin spice mixture to the cream cheese mixture, blending until smooth and well incorporated.

  6. Pour the pumpkin cheesecake filling over the prepared graham cracker crust in the springform pan. Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.

  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle.

  8. Turn off the oven and crack the oven door open slightly. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for about 1 hour.

  9. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

  10. When ready to serve, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.

  11. Optionally, top the pumpkin cheesecake with whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for garnish.

Pumpkin Roll

Ingredients:

For the Pumpkin Roll:

  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Clean kitchen towel

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and line a 10x15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides for easy removal.

  2. In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.

  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until thick and pale, about 2-3 minutes. Add the canned pumpkin puree and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Mix until well combined.

  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until just incorporated.

  5. Pour the batter into the prepared jelly roll pan, spreading it evenly.

  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cake springs back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  7. While the cake is baking, lay a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and generously dust it with powdered sugar.

  8. When the cake is done, immediately invert it onto the prepared kitchen towel. Carefully peel off the parchment paper.

  9. Starting at the narrow end, roll the warm cake and towel together into a tight spiral. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack, seam side down.

  10. While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese filling. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

  11. Once the cake has cooled completely, carefully unroll it. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the unrolled cake. Gently roll the cake back up, this time without the towel. Place it seam side down on a serving platter.

  12. Cover and refrigerate the Pumpkin Roll for at least 1 hour before serving to firm up the filling.

  13. When ready to serve, slice and enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Roll.

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