Creamy Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
Introduction
Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting twist on the classic dish, using creamy pumpkin purée instead of traditional mashed potatoes. It’s a flavorful, hearty meal perfect for cooler evenings and adds a seasonal touch to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, lamb, or turkey)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, or your choice)
- 1 ½ cups pumpkin purée
- Salt, pepper, and other seasonings to taste (such as garlic powder, thyme, or rosemary)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Step 2: Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs or spices.
- Step 3: Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Step 4: Spoon the pumpkin purée over the meat and vegetables, smoothing it out into an even layer.
- Step 5: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until the pumpkin topping is set and slightly golden around the edges.
- Step 6: Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to firm up.
Tips & Variations
- For added richness, mix a little butter or cream into the pumpkin purée before spreading.
- Try adding sautéed onions and garlic to the meat for extra flavor.
- Swap pumpkin with sweet potato purée if you prefer a different taste or texture.
- Top with grated cheese before baking for a golden, cheesy crust.
Storage
Store leftover pumpkin shepherd’s pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes. For longer storage, freeze portions in sealed containers for up to 2 months.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can use any mix of vegetables you like such as green beans, corn, or mushrooms. Just adjust cooking times if needed to ensure everything is tender.
Is pumpkin purée the same as pumpkin pie filling?
No, pumpkin purée is plain cooked pumpkin without added spices or sweeteners, whereas pumpkin pie filling contains sugar and spices. For this savory recipe, be sure to use plain pumpkin purée.
PrintCreamy Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
This Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting twist on the classic dish, substituting traditional mashed potatoes with creamy pumpkin purée. Ground meat and sautéed vegetables create a hearty base, topped with smooth, flavorful pumpkin, then baked to golden perfection. A perfect autumnal meal that combines savory and subtle sweetness in a wholesome casserole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground meat (beef or lamb)
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Pumpkin Topping
- 2 cups pumpkin purée (canned or homemade)
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat and Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and carrots, sautéing until tender, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add ground meat, season with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary, and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking the meat apart with a spatula.
- Combine Vegetables: Stir in frozen peas to the meat mixture and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until peas are heated through. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Pumpkin Topping: In a separate bowl, mix pumpkin purée with milk or cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture into a baking dish, spreading evenly. Spoon the pumpkin topping over the meat layer and spread smoothly to cover the filling.
- Bake Until Set: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pumpkin topping is set and slightly golden on top.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the shepherd’s pie to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the topping to firm up.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add Worcestershire sauce or tomato paste to the meat mixture for more depth of flavor.
- For a vegan alternative, use plant-based ground meat and a non-dairy milk in the pumpkin topping.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Try topping with shredded cheese before baking for an extra rich finish.
Keywords: pumpkin shepherd’s pie, autumn recipe, ground meat casserole, pumpkin topping, comfort food
