Pumpkin Stuffing for Thanksgiving – Perfect Side Dish!

Table of Contents: Pumpkin Stuffing for Thanksgiving

Pumpkin Stuffing for Thanksgiving

A Cozy, Flavorful Twist on a Classic Thanksgiving Favorite

Picture this: golden cubes of bread soaked in a rich, herby pumpkin-infused broth, mingling with caramelized onions, tender celery, and just the right amount of warmth from sage and thyme. This Pumpkin Stuffing for Thanksgiving isn’t just another side dish—it’s the star of your holiday table.

Pumpkin isn’t just for pies anymore. This savory stuffing takes the earthy sweetness of pumpkin and turns it into a hearty, comforting dish that pairs perfectly with roasted turkey or even stands alone as a vegetarian-friendly delight. And here’s a fun fact: stuffing dates back to ancient Roman times, where it was often stuffed inside meats for extra flavor. Our version skips the bird (though you can bake it inside if you prefer) and lets the pumpkin shine.

Compared to our classic Best Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe – Easy & Delicious Holiday Side Dish!, this pumpkin version brings a unique depth of flavor while keeping the same cozy, crowd-pleasing texture. Whether you’re a stuffing purist or looking to shake things up this year, this recipe is a must-try. Ready to make the best Pumpkin Stuffing for Thanksgiving? Let’s get cooking!

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What is Pumpkin Stuffing?

Ever wondered why we call it stuffing when half the time we don’t even stuff it inside anything? (Unless you’re a traditionalist, in which case, go for it!) This Pumpkin Stuffing for Thanksgiving is a deliciously moist, savory bread-based dish infused with pumpkin puree, warm spices, and fresh herbs.

Some say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, but we think the way to everyone’s heart is through a big, buttery scoop of this stuffing. The name might be simple, but the flavors are anything but. Whether you bake it in a casserole dish or inside your turkey, this dish is guaranteed to steal the show.

So, are you ready to upgrade your Thanksgiving spread? Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love this recipe.

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Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Stuffing

1. Rich, Comforting Flavor with a Seasonal Twist

Pumpkin isn’t just for lattes and pies. In this stuffing, it adds a subtle sweetness and velvety texture that balances perfectly with savory herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary.

2. Budget-Friendly & Homemade Goodness

Skip the boxed stuffing mix—this homemade version costs just pennies per serving and tastes a million times better. Plus, you control the ingredients, making it as healthy (or indulgent) as you like.

3. Versatile & Crowd-Pleasing

Vegetarian? No problem. Want to add sausage or bacon? Go for it! This recipe is easily customizable, just like our Apple & Cranberry Stuffing, but with a cozy pumpkin twist.

Ready to make the best Pumpkin Stuffing for Thanksgiving? Let’s get started!

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How to Make Pumpkin Stuffing

Quick Overview

This stuffing comes together in under an hour, using simple ingredients like bread cubes, pumpkin puree, fresh herbs, and a few pantry staples. The result? A moist, flavorful stuffing with a golden, crispy top.

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 40 mins | Total Time: 55 mins

Key Ingredients

– 8 cups stale bread cubes (French or sourdough works best)
– 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 celery stalks, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
– 1 tbsp fresh thyme
– 1 tsp rosemary
– ½ tsp nutmeg
– Salt & black pepper to taste
– ½ cup melted butter or olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Sauté veggies: In a skillet, cook onion, celery, and garlic in butter until soft (5-7 mins).
3. Mix wet ingredients: In a bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, broth, eggs, herbs, and spices.
4. Combine everything: Toss bread cubes with the pumpkin mixture and sautéed veggies.
5. Bake: Transfer to the baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 mins. Uncover and bake 10 more mins for a crispy top.

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What to Serve with Pumpkin Stuffing

This stuffing pairs beautifully with all your Thanksgiving favorites. Try it alongside Classic Roast Turkey, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, or Honey-Glazed Carrots. For a vegetarian feast, serve it with Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Cranberry Sauce.

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Top Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin Stuffing

– Use stale bread for the best texture—fresh bread turns mushy.
– Toast nuts or add dried cranberries for extra crunch and sweetness.
– For extra richness, swap butter for browned butter.
– Make it ahead! Assemble the night before and bake day-of.

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Storing and Reheating Tips

– Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
– Freeze: Freeze unbaked stuffing for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.
– Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 mins, or microwave in 30-second intervals.

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People Also Ask: Pumpkin Stuffing for Thanksgiving

How do you make stuffing with pumpkin?

Mix bread cubes with pumpkin puree, sautéed veggies, herbs, and broth. Bake until golden and crispy.

What kind of pumpkin is best for stuffing?

Use 100% pure pumpkin puree (not pie filling) or roast and mash a sugar pumpkin.

Is pumpkin stuffing a sweet or savory dish?

This version is savory, with herbs and spices balancing the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.

Can you bake pumpkin stuffing inside a turkey?

Yes! Just ensure the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

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Conclusion: Pumpkin Stuffing for Thanksgiving

This Pumpkin Stuffing for Thanksgiving is a must-try twist on a classic. Moist, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s the perfect side dish for your holiday feast. Want more stuffing ideas? Check out our Smoked Meatloaf Recipe: Juicy & Flavorful for another crowd-pleaser.

Now, go grab your ingredients and make this stuffing the star of your table! 🎃🍂

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