Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that perfectly balances savory and subtly sweet flavors, you are going to absolutely love this Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie. It’s a delightful twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, replacing traditional mashed potatoes with a luscious blend of pumpkin puree and creamy cheese, adding warm hints of thyme and nutmeg. The hearty turkey, crispy bacon, and tender Brussels sprouts come together under that golden, cheesy pumpkin crust, creating a dish that feels like a big, delicious hug on a chilly evening. Trust me, this Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie is one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie lies in its straightforward ingredient list, each piece playing a crucial role in flavor, texture, or color. From the starchy russet potatoes that give you that smooth mash to the fresh thyme and nutmeg that add subtle depth, every ingredient has a purpose.

• Russet potatoes (4 cups, peeled and chopped): The perfect starchy base for a silky mash that holds everything together.
• Pumpkin puree (1 cup): Not pumpkin pie filling, but pure pumpkin that adds natural sweetness and a beautiful orange hue.
• Baby Swiss cheese (1 cup, shredded): Brings creamy richness and a mild nuttiness that blends perfectly with the pumpkin.
• Milk or cream (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and ensures a smooth, velvety texture.
• Butter (6 tbsp, divided): Essential for flavor and a rich mouthfeel—both in the mash and for cooking the veggies and turkey.
• Salt (1 tsp for mash + 1/2 tsp for filling): Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the sweetness of the pumpkin.
• Fresh thyme (1 tsp): An herbal note that pairs beautifully with both pumpkin and turkey.
• Nutmeg (1/4 tsp): Adds warmth and a touch of spice to the mashed topping.
• Bacon (3 slices, chopped): Crispy bits that bring smoky depth and a satisfying crunch.
• Yellow or sweet onion (1/2, chopped): Provides a mellow sweetness and texture contrast.
• Brussels sprouts (2 cups, trimmed and sliced): Adds a fresh, slightly bitter crunch that brightens the filling.
• Ground turkey (1 lb, 99% fat free): Lean and hearty protein that keeps this dish light yet satisfying.
• Chicken or turkey broth (1 cup): Moistens the filling and helps make a delicious gravy.
• Jellied cranberry sauce (1/3 cup): A hint of tangy sweetness that elevates the entire flavor profile.
• All-purpose flour (2 tbsp): Thickens the sauce so every bite is rich and cohesive.

How to Make Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Pumpkin-Potato Topping

Start by boiling your peeled and chopped russet potatoes in cold water until they are fork tender, which usually takes around 15 minutes. Once drained, stir in the pumpkin puree, milk or cream, and 4 tablespoons of butter, along with salt. Mash everything until creamy and smooth. This is when you add the shredded Swiss cheese, fresh thyme, and a pinch of nutmeg, folding gently to keep the topping fluffy and flavorful. Set this aside—it’s the star topping that makes the Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie truly special.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

Now, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped bacon, onion, and Brussels sprouts, cooking until the bacon is browned and the veggies are tender—about 10 minutes. Next comes the ground turkey, cooked and crumbled with a sprinkle of salt. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the jellied cranberry sauce, letting it simmer for about 5 minutes. Then sprinkle in the flour and stir for another couple of minutes to thicken this mouthwatering filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie

The assembly is delightfully simple. If you’re baking in the skillet, spread the pumpkin mash evenly over the turkey mixture. If not, transfer the filling into a 9×13-inch baking dish and then slather the mashed topping on top, smoothing it out. This layer will brown beautifully, sealing in all that goodness beneath.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake your Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie in a 400-degree Fahrenheit oven for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling around the edges. That crispy, cheesy pumpkin crust is what dreams are made of.

How to Serve Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie

Garnishes

Simple green herbs like a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or extra thyme really brighten the plate and add a fresh pop of color. For an extra savory finish, a drizzle of browned butter or a dollop of creamy sour cream on top can take this dish from wonderful to unforgettable.

Side Dishes

This dish is quite filling on its own, but if you want to add some extra texture or freshness, consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted root vegetables. Roasted carrots, parsnips, or a light kale salad complement the Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie’s sweet and savory notes beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation at a dinner party, try serving individual portions in small cast iron skillets or ramekins. Drizzle a little olive oil or maple syrup over the pumpkin topping before baking for a uniquely glossy finish. You can even swirl in some pesto or sprinkle crushed pecans on top for added depth and crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie will stay delicious for about 3 to 4 days. The flavors meld wonderfully over time, making the next day’s meal even better!

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, usually around 20 to 25 minutes, to preserve that irresistible topping texture. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the mash fluffy and the edges crisp.

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for the mash?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add an even sweeter flavor that pairs nicely with the pumpkin. Just adjust the seasoning slightly to balance the sweetness.

What can I substitute for jellied cranberry sauce?

If you don’t have cranberry sauce, you can use a bit of cranberry jelly, apple jelly, or even a spoonful of cranberry preserves to maintain that tangy-sweet element.

Is ground beef a good substitute for turkey?

Yes, ground beef can be used if you prefer a richer meat flavor, but turkey keeps the dish lighter and lets the pumpkin and veggie flavors shine more distinctly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the turkey and bacon for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Use vegetable broth to keep all the savory flavors intact.

How do I prevent the mashed pumpkin topping from drying out?

Using enough butter and milk in the mash is key, plus covering the dish with foil for the first part of baking can help retain moisture before uncovering for that nice golden finish.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie is one of those dishes that feels like home on a plate—heartwarming, flavorful, and full of seasonal goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or looking to impress friends, it delivers every time. Dive in, savor every bite, and don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes one of your favorite fall and winter meals. You really can’t go wrong with this delicious take on a traditional classic.

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