Pumpkin Stuffed with Wild Rice and Sausage

Name: Pumpkin Stuffed with Wild Rice and Sausage
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 pounds); 1 cup long-grain wild rice; 1 pound Italian sausage (or your preferred type); 1 medium sweet onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh kale or spinach, chopped; ½ cup grated cheese (optional); 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: August 13, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines ease of preparation with comfort food vibes, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The delightful fusion of flavors will have your taste buds singing
It’s visually stunning on any dinner table and versatile enough for holiday feasts or casual gatherings

I still remember the first time I made this pumpkin stuffed with wild rice and sausage for my friends. Their eyes lit up as they sliced into the vibrant orange flesh, revealing the delicious filling inside. It was an instant hit! For more inspiration, check out this chicken sausages with zucchini recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Small Pumpkin: Choose a pumpkin that is firm and has no blemishes; sugar pumpkins work best for stuffing.
Wild Rice: Opt for long-grain wild rice for a chewy texture that complements the sausage beautifully.
Sausage: Use your favorite type of sausage; Italian works wonders here but feel free to experiment. Italian chicken cutlets.
Onion: A sweet onion adds depth to the flavor profile; chop finely for even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the overall aroma; don’t skimp on this aromatic gem! For more inspiration, check out this fresh herbed tuna salad recipe.
Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while infusing rich flavor into the rice. rich and hearty stroganoff.
Kale or Spinach: Leafy greens add color and nutrients; choose fresh greens for better texture.
Cheese (optional): Grated cheese adds creaminess; feel free to sprinkle it on top before baking.
Spices (thyme, pepper): These enhance flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Prepare Pumpkin: Cut off the top of your pumpkin like you’re making a jack-o’-lantern but without scaring anyone! Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits inside until it’s nice and clean.

Cook Wild Rice: In a pot, combine wild rice with vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tender—about 40-45 minutes depending on your rice variety.

Sauté Sausage Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced onions until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and sausage until browned—this should take about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Filling: Once sausage is cooked through, add cooked wild rice and chopped greens. Mix well until everything is coated in deliciousness—let those flavors mingle!

Stuff Your Pumpkin: Carefully fill the hollowed-out pumpkin with the hearty mixture using a spoon. Pack it tightly because no one likes half-hearted stuffing!

Bake: Place your stuffed pumpkin into the preheated oven on the prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes until the pumpkin is tender but not falling apart.

Serve & Enjoy: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before slicing into wedges. Serve warm as a main course or side dish—get ready for compliments!

This flavorful journey of pumpkin stuffed with wild rice and sausage will become one of your go-to recipes! It’s simple yet impressive enough for any occasion you can dream up!

You Must Know

This delightful Pumpkin Stuffed with Wild Rice and Sausage recipe brings warmth and joy
The unique blend of flavors creates a comforting dish that friends and family will adore
Plus, it’s visually stunning, making it perfect for festive gatherings or cozy dinners

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by roasting the pumpkin halves until tender, then prepare the wild rice and sausage mixture while they bake. This multitasking ensures everything is ready to combine perfectly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the sausage for a plant-based option or add extra veggies like spinach for more nutrition. This allows you to personalize your dish based on dietary preferences.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to preserve flavors and textures without drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect results, always taste your stuffing before baking
Adjust seasoning as needed to enhance flavors
Use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to elevate the taste profile even more
Don’t rush the roasting; let those pumpkins caramelize beautifully for depth of flavor

Creating this dish reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and everyone eagerly awaited my famous stuffed pumpkins. The smiles on their faces made all the effort worthwhile.

FAQ

Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh?

Using canned pumpkin is convenient but won’t provide the same texture as fresh.

How do I know when the pumpkin is done cooking?

The pumpkin should be fork-tender but not mushy, indicating it’s ready for stuffing.

What can I serve with Pumpkin Stuffed with Wild Rice and Sausage?

Pair this dish with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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