A Meal in a Pumpkin

Transform your dinner table with the ultimate autumn-inspired dish, "A Meal in a Pumpkin." This hearty recipe combines a perfectly roasted pumpkin with a savory filling of seasoned ground beef or turkey, tender rice, colorful mixed vegetables, and a creamy blend of cheddar cheese and mushroom soup. Infused with a hint of sweetness from brown sugar and the umami punch of soy sauce, every bite is a harmony of comforting flavors. The pumpkin doubles as both a cooking vessel and an edible serving dish, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for fall gatherings or Halloween festivities. Easy to prepare and packed with cozy, wholesome ingredients, this all-in-one meal is as nourishing as it is visually stunning. Perfect for a chilly evening, it’s a festive way to celebrate the flavors of the season while wowing your family or guests!

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:90 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 medium-sized pumpkin
• 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

Carefully cut off the top of the pumpkin (reserve the lid) and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp. Brush the inside of the pumpkin with olive oil and set it aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Reduce heat to low and add the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, soy sauce, brown sugar, frozen vegetables, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine and cook for 3-4 minutes to heat through.

Step 6

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 7

Spoon the mixture into the prepared pumpkin, packing it firmly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the filling.

Step 8

Place the lid back on the pumpkin and transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.

Step 9

Bake the pumpkin in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the pumpkin flesh is tender enough to be pierced with a fork.

Step 10

Carefully remove the pumpkin from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Step 11

To serve, scoop the filling along with some of the tender pumpkin flesh for a complete, flavorful bite.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2512.7 grams (2512.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2233

Total Fat 95.10g	122%
Saturated Fat 36.30g	182%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.60g
Cholesterol 333mg	111%
Sodium 5001mg	217%
Total Carbohydrate 243.20g	88%
Dietary Fiber 19.90g	71%
Total Sugars 35.60g
Protein 103.70g	207%

Vitamin D 85IU	427%
Calcium 484mg	37%
Iron 20mg	113%
Potassium 3218mg	68%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 38.2%

Protein: 18.5%

Carbs: 43.4%