Ground Turkey & Brown Butter Sage Stuffed Pumpkins Recipe

Nothing says autumn comfort quite like the Ground Turkey & Brown Butter Sage Stuffed Pumpkins Recipe. This dish brings together tender, roasted mini pumpkins filled with a savory blend of ground turkey, aromatic brown butter sage, and cheesy bread stuffing. It’s a harmonious mix of textures and flavors that feels both rustic and refined, perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself to a cozy homemade meal. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an ideal centerpiece for any seasonal gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, but each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the sweet pumpkins that act as edible bowls to the rich brown butter sage that elevates the filling with an irresistible aroma, every element matters.

• 4 small sugar pumpkins: Perfectly sized to serve as charming edible containers and add natural sweetness.
• 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (divided): Helps with roasting the pumpkins and sautéing the veggies for depth of flavor.
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps balance the seasoning perfectly.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of bite and spice.
• 1 cup diced carrots: Provides sweetness and a subtle crunch to the stuffing mix.
• 1 cup diced yellow onion: Brings natural savory sweetness and soft texture when sautéed.
• ½ cup diced celery: Adds a fresh, crisp note that complements the richness.
• 1 pound ground turkey: Lean and tender meat that carries the flavors of the herbs and spices beautifully.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Essential for making brown butter that forms the flavorful base with sage.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage: Offers an earthy, aromatic punch that pairs exquisitely with turkey and butter.
• 3½ cups ½” cubes of stale French baguette: Absorbs the savory juices and chicken stock, creating a moist stuffing.
• 1½ cups chicken stock: Keeps the stuffing tender and flavorful without getting soggy.
• 1½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese (divided): Adds a nutty, melty richness that pulls the whole dish together.

How to Make Ground Turkey & Brown Butter Sage Stuffed Pumpkins Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Pumpkins

Start by preheating your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Slice the tops off each sugar pumpkin carefully, including the stem, about an inch down. Scoop out the seeds to create perfect little pumpkin “bowls.” Rub the interiors with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper. Place the pumpkins, cut sides up, on a baking sheet and roast until their flesh is tender and easy to scoop, approximately 35 minutes. This roasting process not only softens the pumpkins but also brings out their natural sweetness that perfectly complements the savory filling.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Brown the Turkey

While the pumpkins roast, heat medium-low heat on a large sauté pan and add the remaining olive oil. Toss in the diced carrots, onions, and celery, sautéing them gently until translucent and tender, about 5 minutes. Once the vegetables have softened, add the ground turkey. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, ensuring even browning for around 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then transfer this mixture to a large bowl and mix in your stale bread cubes. This forms the hearty base of your stuffing, combining aromatic veggies and lean protein with satisfying texture.

Step 3: Create the Brown Butter Sage Sauce

Lower your oven’s heat to 350ºF (180ºC). Return your sauté pan to the stove on medium-low and melt the unsalted butter. Once it starts to foam and turn golden with a nutty scent, stir in the chopped fresh sage. Cook for about 4 minutes, until the butter is richly infused with sage aroma. This simple yet spectacular brown butter sage sauce is the magic that elevates the filling, lending depth and warmth that’s absolutely unforgettable.

Step 4: Combine the Stuffing

Pour the fragrant brown butter and sage mixture over your turkey and bread mixture. Slowly pour in the chicken stock, tossing gently so that every cube of bread soaks up the liquid and becomes tender but not mushy. Add one cup of the shredded Gruyère cheese and combine thoroughly. The melted cheese binds all the ingredients, adding luxurious flavor and creaminess that makes this stuffing a standout.

Step 5: Stuff and Bake the Pumpkins

Fill each roasted pumpkin generously with the stuffing mixture, packing it almost to overflowing for that hearty, abundant look. Sprinkle the remaining Gruyère cheese on top of each filled pumpkin. Pop them back into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, until the cheese melts- bubbly and golden. Remove the pumpkin tops and prop them on the sides for a charming presentation. This final bake melds the flavors and creates a beautifully crispy cheesy crust over a moist, flavour-packed filling.

How to Serve Ground Turkey & Brown Butter Sage Stuffed Pumpkins Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh herbs like a sprinkle of chopped sage or parsley on top brightens the dish visually and complements the earthy flavors. A drizzle of good quality extra-virgin olive oil right before serving adds a lovely sheen and richness. For a touch of color and texture, add crushed toasted walnuts or pecans, which contrast beautifully with the creamy interior.

Side Dishes

This stuffed pumpkin is quite a star on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette can balance the richness perfectly. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple garlic sautéed green beans dish also work wonderfully to add freshness and crunch to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Imagine serving individual stuffed pumpkins right at the dinner table for a warm, festive touch that feels very special. Alternatively, scoop out the filling and arrange it on a platter with roasted pumpkin cubes on the side. You could also turn leftovers into a delicious hash or bake it as a casserole for a crowd-friendly alternative.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers from the Ground Turkey & Brown Butter Sage Stuffed Pumpkins Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the stuffing and pumpkin shells together if possible, as the flavors meld beautifully overnight.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Wrap individual stuffed pumpkins tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the stuffed pumpkins in a 350ºF oven for 20-25 minutes until warmed through and the cheese bubble is restored. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the pumpkin can become soggy and the cheese won’t crisp back up nicely.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pumpkin?

Absolutely! While small sugar pumpkins are preferred because of their size and sweetness, you can use other small varieties like pie pumpkins. Just make sure they’re small enough to roast evenly and serve individually.

Is ground turkey the only meat option for this recipe?

Ground turkey works wonderfully for a lean and mild flavor, but you can substitute ground chicken, pork, or even sausage if you prefer a richer or more robust taste.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the ground turkey and replace it with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. Just adjust seasoning and cooking times accordingly for the best texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have Gruyère cheese?

Gruyère offers a nutty melt that complements this dish perfectly, but Swiss, mozzarella, or sharp white cheddar can be great alternatives depending on your taste preferences.

How do I ensure the bread cubes don’t get soggy?

Using stale bread cubes is key, as they hold up better to moisture. Toss them with the chicken stock gradually to allow even absorption without making the mixture too wet.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s warm, flavorful, and perfect for cozy gatherings, I can’t recommend trying the Ground Turkey & Brown Butter Sage Stuffed Pumpkins Recipe enough. It effortlessly combines rustic charm with gourmet flair, and once you taste that buttery sage-infused filling paired with tender roasted pumpkin, you’ll want to make this your go-to seasonal favorite. Give it a try – your dinner guests will thank you!

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