It’s that time of year again—pumpkins are everywhere! Whether you’ve got beef, chicken, pork, or lamb on hand, here are some delicious ways to make the most of pumpkin season in your homemade meals.
1. Pumpkin and Ground Beef Chili
Give your classic chili a fall makeover with pumpkin puree. Start by browning lean ground beef with onion, garlic, and your go-to spices—chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cinnamon for warmth. Add crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, and a cup or two of pumpkin puree. Let it simmer until it thickens into a rich, velvety chili.
The pumpkin adds a slightly sweet balance to the spice while making the texture beautifully smooth. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to add fibre and vitamins without changing the hearty feel Canadians love in their chili.
2. Pumpkin-Stuffed Chicken Breasts
If you’re looking for something a little fancy but still easy to make, try pumpkin-stuffed chicken breasts. Mix roasted pumpkin with goat cheese, spinach, and herbs like sage or thyme. Stuff your chicken breasts, secure them with toothpicks, and bake until tender. The pumpkin keeps the chicken juicy and gives it a subtle fall flavour that pairs nicely with a drizzle of maple glaze.
This dish looks impressive but takes less time than you’d think—ideal for a cozy weekend dinner or even a fall get-together with friends.
3. Pork Chops with Pumpkin Apple Sauce
Apples and pork are a classic combo, but pumpkin takes this match-up to the next level. Simmer pureed pumpkin with chopped apples, a dash of cinnamon, and a little maple syrup for a sweet-and-tangy sauce that’s perfect over seared or grilled pork chops.
The natural sweetness of both apple and pumpkin works beautifully with the savoury pork. Serve it with roasted potatoes or Brussels sprouts, and you’ve got an easy autumn dinner that feels like a hug on a plate.
4. Pumpkin Meatballs in Creamy Sauce
Adding pumpkin puree to meatballs is a total game-changer. It keeps them soft, moist, and flavourful without overpowering the taste of the meat. Mix pumpkin into your ground beef or turkey with breadcrumbs, garlic, and Parmesan. Once baked, serve them in a creamy garlic-sage sauce or your favourite tomato base.
These meatballs work great over pasta, mashed potatoes, or even rice bowls—comfort food that’s both hearty and wholesome.
5. Pumpkin and Lamb Stew
Few things beat a warm bowl of stew when the weather cools, and pumpkin and lamb make an incredible duo. Start by browning chunks of lamb shoulder, then simmer with onions, carrots, garlic, and diced pumpkin in a broth spiced with rosemary and a splash of red wine.
The pumpkin slowly melts into the stew, creating a naturally thick, rich sauce that tastes even better the next day. It’s a great recipe to make on Sunday and enjoy through the week.
6. Pumpkin Meatloaf with Maple Glaze
Pumpkin puree in meatloaf? Absolutely. It adds moisture, boosts nutrition, and gives the loaf a soft, rich texture. Combine ground beef or turkey with breadcrumbs, egg, onion, and a good scoop of pumpkin puree. Top it off with a maple-mustard glaze before baking, and you’ll have a sweet-savory twist on a Canadian comfort food staple.
It’s family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and the perfect way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing.
7. Creamy Pumpkin Bacon Pasta with Chicken
For a quick, crowd-pleasing dinner, try this pumpkin pasta. Cook diced chicken and crispy bacon, then stir in a creamy sauce made from pumpkin puree, garlic, cream, and Parmesan. Toss with penne or fettuccine and sprinkle with fresh sage.
It’s like an Alfredo—but lighter, creamier, and more colourful. The pumpkin gives the sauce that gorgeous golden hue and a smooth texture that clings beautifully to pasta.
Why Pumpkin Works So Well with Meat
Pumpkin isn’t just pretty—it’s packed with nutrients. Low in fat and high in vitamins A and C, it brings natural sweetness that balances the savoury notes of meat. It also thickens sauces and stews naturally, so you can skip extra cream or flour. Because it blends so well with spices, you can easily go smoky, spicy, or herby, depending on your mood.
