Celebrate the flavors of the season with this delightful recipe for a baked whole pumpkin stuffed with flavorful mince. This dish combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with a savory and aromatic minced meat filling, resulting in a hearty and visually stunning centerpiece for your table. The pumpkin acts as both a vessel and a cooking vessel, infusing the mince with its rich flavors and ensuring a moist and tender texture. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a delicious and wholesome meal, this baked whole pumpkin stuffed with mince is sure to impress. Get ready to savor the comforting flavors and impressive presentation of this festive recipe.
baked pumpkin stuffed with mince
Baked whole pumpkin stuffed with flavorful mince is a festive and wholesome dish that celebrates the flavors of the season. The combination of tender pumpkin and savory mince creates a visually stunning and satisfying centerpiece for any occasion. Enjoy the comforting flavors and impressive presentation of this delightful recipe.
Equipment
- baking sheet
- knife
- cutting boad
- mixing bowl
- aluminum foil
- Spoon
Ingredients
- pumpkin
- meat mince
- onion and garlic
- thyme
- permasen cheese
- parsley
- rosemary
- thyme
- salt and pepper
- olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or dish with aluminum foil for easier cleanup, if desired.
- Wash the pumpkin and pat it dry. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut off the top portion of the pumpkin to create a lid. Set the lid aside. Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the pumpkin using a spoon, creating a hollow cavity for the mince filling. Reserve the pumpkin seeds for roasting, if desired.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Spoon the mince filling into the hollowed-out pumpkin, packing it tightly and filling it up to the top. Place the pumpkin lid back on top.
- Place the stuffed pumpkin on the prepared baking sheet or dish. Drizzle the exterior of the pumpkin with a little olive oil to help it brown and maintain moisture. Cover the pumpkin loosely with aluminum foil, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
- Transfer the baking sheet or dish to the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, or until the pumpkin is tender when pierced with a fork and the mince filling is fully cooked. Remove the foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking to allow the top of the pumpkin to brown slightly.
- Transfer the baking sheet or dish to the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, or until the pumpkin is tender when pierced with a fork and the mince filling is fully cooked. Remove the foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking to allow the top of the pumpkin to brown slightly.
Video
Notes
Choose a small to medium-sized pumpkin that is suitable for baking. Look for varieties like sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins, which have a sweeter flavor and firm texture.
Customize the mince filling according to your taste preferences. You can use ground beef, turkey, or a combination of meats. Add spices, herbs, and vegetables to enhance the flavors.
Make sure to scoop out the pumpkin seeds and stringy pulp before stuffing it with the mince filling.
Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary depending on the size and type of pumpkin. The pumpkin should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the mince should be fully cooked.
Serve the baked whole pumpkin as a standalone main course or pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition
Serving: 200g
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