Pumpkin Shell Casserole

Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this show-stopping Pumpkin Shell Casserole, a hearty and wholesome meal that's as visually stunning as it is delicious. This unique recipe features a hollowed-out pumpkin as the edible vessel, baked to tender perfection and filled with a savory blend of seasoned ground beef or turkey, fluffy rice, colorful mixed vegetables, and creamy mushroom soup. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, this dish combines comforting flavors with a creative presentation, perfect for autumn gatherings or holiday feasts. Not only does the roasted pumpkin add a natural sweetness, but it also makes the dish a nutritious centerpiece. With simple steps and a touch of rustic charm, this casserole is a deliciously satisfying way to celebrate the season!

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:75 mins

Total Time:105 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 Small to medium-sized pumpkin
• 1 lb Ground beef or turkey
• 1 Onion, diced
• 1.5 cups Cooked white or brown rice
• 1 cup Frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 tsp Garlic powder
• 1 tsp Salt
• 0.5 tsp Black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

Cut the top off the pumpkin to create a lid and scoop out the seeds and fibers. Set the pumpkin and its lid aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4

Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.

Step 5

Stir in the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, cooked rice, frozen mixed vegetables, and cream of mushroom soup. Cook until the mixture is heated through and evenly combined.

Step 6

Place the hollowed-out pumpkin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Fill the pumpkin with the casserole mixture, packing it gently. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 7

Place the pumpkin lid back on and bake in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 8

Remove the pumpkin from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a serving platter or leave it on the baking sheet for serving.

Step 9

To serve, slice portions of the pumpkin shell along with the casserole filling to enjoy both the roasted pumpkin and the savory mixture inside.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1732.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2565.8

Total Fat 154.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 66.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.8g
Cholesterol 495.1mg	0%
Sodium 4613.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 162.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 15.4g	0%
Total Sugars 28.4g
Protein 129.8g	0%

Vitamin D 109.4IU	0%
Calcium 1225.0mg	0%
Iron 19.7mg	0%
Potassium 2841.6mg	0%

*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: 54.3%

Protein: 20.3%

Carbs: 25.4%