7 Best Family Dinner Pumpkin Side Dishes

One taste of these delightful pumpkin side dishes will elevate your family dinners, but there’s a secret ingredient that makes them unforgettable!

Creamy Pumpkin Risotto

creamy pumpkin risotto recipe

Creamy pumpkin risotto is a delightful Italian dish that brings together the earthy flavors of pumpkin, creamy Arborio rice, and aromatic herbs. This rich and comforting side dish is perfect for family dinners, especially during the fall season when pumpkins are at their peak. It’s a wonderful complement to roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or simply enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients Quantity
Arborio rice 1 cup
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Onion 1 small, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup, grated
Heavy cream 1/4 cup
Salt To taste
Pepper To taste
Sage leaves (optional) 2-3 leaves, chopped
  1. In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable broth and keep it warm over low heat.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the diced onion. Sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring for 1-2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.
  4. Gradually add the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until the liquid is absorbed before adding the next ladle.
  5. Once the rice is creamy and al dente (about 18-20 minutes), stir in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh sage if using; stir until well combined and heated through.
  7. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious creamy pumpkin risotto as a perfect side dish!
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Roasted Pumpkin and Brussels Sprouts

roasted pumpkin brussels sprouts delight

Roasted pumpkin and Brussels sprouts is a vibrant and hearty side dish that beautifully showcases the seasonal flavors of fall. The combination of sweet, caramelized pumpkin and the earthy taste of Brussels sprouts creates a delicious and nutritious addition to any family dinner. This dish pairs exceptionally well with roasted meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a standout vegetarian option.

Ingredients Quantity
Pumpkin 2 cups, cubed
Brussels sprouts 2 cups, halved
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Maple syrup 2 tablespoons
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Balsamic vinegar (optional) 1 tablespoon
Fresh thyme (optional) 1 tablespoon, chopped
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss the cubed pumpkin and halved Brussels sprouts in a large bowl with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the mixture out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  4. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
  5. (Optional) Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with fresh thyme before serving.
  6. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful roasted pumpkin and Brussels sprouts side dish!
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Pumpkin Sage Pasta

comforting pumpkin sage pasta

Pumpkin sage pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that highlights the unique flavors of pumpkin and the aromatic essence of sage. This dish combines al dente pasta with a creamy pumpkin sauce, making it the perfect fall-inspired meal for gathering the family around the dinner table. It’s rich, satisfying, and ideal for both weeknight dinners and festive occasions.

Ingredients Quantity
Pasta (fettuccine or penne) 12 oz
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1 medium, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Fresh sage 1 tablespoon, chopped
Heavy cream 1 cup
Parmesan cheese ½ cup, grated
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Pumpkin seeds (optional) ¼ cup, toasted
  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent. Add garlic and fresh sage, cooking until fragrant.
  3. Stir in pumpkin puree and heavy cream, season with salt and black pepper, and simmer for 5 minutes until heated through.
  4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat well in the sauce. Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  5. Serve immediately, garnished with toasted pumpkin seeds if desired. Enjoy this delicious pumpkin sage pasta!
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Savory Pumpkin and Mushroom Quiche

savory pumpkin mushroom quiche

Savory Pumpkin and Mushroom Quiche is a delightful dish that blends the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the sweetness of pumpkin, all encased in a flaky pastry crust. This quiche is perfect for family dinners, as it’s both satisfying and versatile, making it suitable for any season. Serve it warm alongside a green salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients Quantity
Pie crust (store-bought or homemade) 1 (9-inch)
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Fresh mushrooms, sliced 1 cup
Eggs 4 large
Heavy cream 1 cup
Onion, diced 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Grated cheese (such as cheddar or Gruyère) 1 cup
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the pie crust in a quiche or pie dish.
  2. In a skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until soft. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and brown slightly; season with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, and heavy cream until smooth. Stir in the sautéed mushroom mixture and grated cheese.
  4. Pour the pumpkin and mushroom filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is set and the top is lightly golden. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy your savory pumpkin and mushroom quiche!
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Spiced Pumpkin and Black Bean Chili

hearty pumpkin black bean chili

Spiced Pumpkin and Black Bean Chili is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with the protein-packed goodness of black beans. This chili is perfect for family dinners, especially during the fall and winter months, offering warmth and satisfaction in every bowl. It’s easy to prepare and can be made in advance, making it ideal for busy nights or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, diced 1 medium
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Red bell pepper, diced 1 medium
Ground cumin 1 tablespoon
Chili powder 2 tablespoons
Pumpkin puree 2 cups
Black beans, drained and rinsed 2 cans (15 oz each)
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Optional
Sour cream or yogurt (for topping) Optional
  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until translucent.
  2. Add the red bell pepper and cook for another 3 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in the ground cumin and chili powder, cooking for 1 minute to release their flavors.
  4. Add the pumpkin puree, black beans, vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  5. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream or yogurt if desired. Enjoy your hearty spiced pumpkin and black bean chili!
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Maple Glazed Pumpkin Carrots

maple pumpkin glazed carrots

Maple Glazed Pumpkin Carrots are a delightful and vibrant side dish that celebrates the sweetness of autumn flavors. This dish combines tender carrots with a luscious maple glaze and pumpkin puree, creating a deliciously sweet and savory accompaniment to any family dinner. It’s not only simple to prepare but also adds a festive touch to your table.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots, peeled and sliced 4 cups
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Maple syrup 1/4 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon
Salt To taste
Black pepper To taste
Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish) Optional
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced carrots, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat the carrots evenly.
  3. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
  4. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
  5. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm alongside your favorite family dinner!
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Pumpkin Cornbread Muffins

pumpkin cornbread muffin recipe

Pumpkin Cornbread Muffins are a delightful twist on traditional cornbread, combining sweet pumpkin puree with the savory flavor of cornmeal. These muffins are moist, slightly sweet, and perfect as a side dish for any family dinner, especially during the fall season. They pair wonderfully with soups, stews, or simply enjoyed on their own with a pat of butter.

Ingredients Quantity
Cornmeal 1 cup
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Sugar 1/4 cup
Baking powder 1 tablespoon
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Eggs 2 large
Milk 1/2 cup
Vegetable oil 1/4 cup
Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg) 1/2 teaspoon each
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices until well blended.
  3. In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, and vegetable oil until combined.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; do not overmix.
  5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling them about 2/3 full.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Allow muffins to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a tasty side dish!