Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the Pumpkin: Carefully slice the top off the pumpkin (like a lid) and scoop out the seeds and stringy insides. You can save the seeds for roasting later!
- Season the Pumpkin: Rub the inside of the pumpkin with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place it on a baking dish with the opening facing up.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onionand garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 5-7 minutes).
- Cook Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).
- Season: Stir in the cooked rice, dried thyme, dried sage, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Stuff the Pumpkin
- Fill the Pumpkin: Spoon the turkey and mushroom mixture into the prepared pumpkin, pressing it down gently to pack it in.
- Add Broth: If desired, pour the chicken or vegetable broth around the filling for added moisture.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover with Foil: Cover the pumpkin with its lid and wrap the entire dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
- Bake: Place the pumpkin in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and lid, sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Once baked, remove the pumpkin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Scoop and Enjoy: To serve, scoop out the filling along with some of the pumpkin flesh for a delicious bite. Enjoy this hearty dish warm!
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Pumpkin: Look for a medium-sized sugar or pie pumpkin, which is sweeter and more flavorful than larger decorative pumpkins.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or swap out the turkey for ground chicken or beef.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just stuff the pumpkin and bake it when ready to serve.
Nutritional Benefits
- Pumpkin: Low in calories and high in fiber, pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, promoting eye health and boosting the immune system.
- Turkey: A great source of lean protein, turkey can help with muscle maintenance and overall health.
This Baked Pumpkin with Turkey and Mushrooms is a flavorful and healthy dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy family dinners, this recipe is both comforting and nourishing. Enjoy your culinary creation!