Easy Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins for Halloween Dinner

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Easy Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins are a fun and delicious way to celebrate Halloween dinner. They combine the joy of pizza with the festive spirit of pumpkins. Perfect for both kids and adults, this recipe adds a spooky twist to a classic dish. Plus, it’s a great way to make use of seasonal pumpkins!

how to make Easy Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins

Making these Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins is simple and enjoyable. Follow the steps below to create this unique Halloween treat.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (16 oz.) ricotta
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan
  • 1 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 (16.3-oz. tube) Pillsbury Grands Southern Homestyle Biscuits
  • 1 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp. paprika
  • 16 (1"-long) thin pretzel sticks
  • Marinara sauce, for serving
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cut the tops off the pumpkins and scoop out the seeds and pulp, making sure to leave a wall about 1/2 inch thick.
  3. In a large bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Open the biscuit tube and separate the biscuits. Flatten each biscuit slightly and press into the pumpkin cavities to form a crust.
  5. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in parsley and paprika.
  6. Pour the butter mixture over the cheese mixture and mix well.
  7. Spoon the cheese mixture into the pumpkin shells, filling them generously.
  8. Top each pumpkin with shredded cheddar cheese and place the pumpkin tops back on.
  9. Place the stuffed pumpkins on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pumpkins are tender.
  10. Arrange the pretzel sticks around the pumpkins for added fun.
  11. Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.

how to serve Easy Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins

Serve these pumpkins warm straight from the oven. Place them on a festive Halloween table and provide marinara sauce for dipping. Kids will love the pretzel sticks as a fun side!

how to store Easy Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven until warm. You can keep them for up to 3 days in the fridge.

tips to make Easy Pizza-Stuffed Pumpkins

  • Choose small pumpkins that are just the right size for stuffing.
  • Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings, like pepperoni or bell peppers, to the cheese mixture.
  • For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.

variation

You can easily adapt this recipe by using different cheeses or herbs. Adding cooked sausage or ground beef would give it a meatier flavor. Try using colorful bell peppers to make it even more festive!

FAQs

Can I use other types of pumpkins?
Yes, you can use other varieties of pumpkins or even small squash like acorn squash for a different flavor.

Can I freeze the stuffed pumpkins?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed pumpkins before baking them. Just wrap them tightly and bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I use instead of ricotta?
You can use cream cheese or cottage cheese as a substitute for ricotta if desired. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings to your taste!