Pumpkin Spice Shepherd's Pie

Name: Pumpkin Spice Shepherd's Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground lamb or beef; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup peas; 1 tsp pumpkin spice blend; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup beef or vegetable broth; 2 cups cooked mashed pumpkin; 1/4 cup butter; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Cravings Kitchen

I created this Pumpkin Spice Shepherd's Pie as a cozy twist on a classic dish. With the warm spices of pumpkin pie, it seamlessly merges hearty comfort food with seasonal flavors. We all crave something special during the fall, and this dish not only warms the soul but brings a new level of excitement to my dinner table. The creamy mashed pumpkin topping adds a unique twist that makes it stand out and keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-01T14:26:28.072Z

I stumbled upon an idea to blend the flavors of pumpkin pie with the comfort of shepherd's pie, and it worked beautifully! The combination of savory and sweet surprised me, and I couldn't get enough of the flavors. I used roasted pumpkin to give it a creamy consistency that pairs wonderfully with the spicy filling.

One of the best tips I can offer is to let the mashed pumpkin sit for a few minutes after mixing in the spices. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives the dish an extra depth that is simply irresistible. Trust me, your guests will be asking for the recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Unique blend of savory and sweet flavors
Creamy pumpkin topping that offers a cozy twist
Perfect for fall gatherings and family dinners

Elevating Classic Flavors

This Pumpkin Spice Shepherd's Pie expertly marries classic comfort with seasonal spices, offering a unique culinary experience. The addition of pumpkin spice in the filling not only enhances the savory profile but also complements the richness of the meat. This unexpected flavor twist can surprise even the most seasoned Shepherd's Pie enthusiasts, as the warm spices create an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks.

When selecting your ground meat, consider using lamb for a more traditional flavor or beef for heartiness. If you're looking for a lighter option, ground turkey can also work well here. Just be sure to cook it until browned to develop that desired depth of flavor. Don't hesitate to adjust the seasoning according to your taste—these spices are masterfully balanced but are flexible to personal preferences.

The Creamy Pumpkin Topping

The mashed pumpkin topping is what truly sets this dish apart. It isn't just a replacement for traditional potatoes; the pumpkin adds a luscious creaminess that melts into the warm filling beneath. For a smoother texture, ensure your pumpkin is well-mashed—using a food processor can help achieve a velvety consistency without lumps. This also makes it easy to distribute evenly over the filling.

Don't overlook the role of spices in the pumpkin topping! The addition of cinnamon elevates the flavor profile, creating a warming, aromatic finish that plays beautifully with the savory filling underneath. You can easily adapt the topping by experimenting with nutmeg or ginger for even more depth—don't be afraid to make it uniquely yours.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

This recipe is not only perfect for family gatherings but also makes for excellent leftovers. Prepare it a day in advance and simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. This allows the flavors to meld even more, enhancing that cozy fall taste. Be sure to cover it with foil to prevent over-browning during reheating.

If you have extras, consider freezing individual portions. Allow the pie to cool completely before cutting into portions and wrapping them tightly for freezer storage. These can last up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat in the oven for the best texture—the microwave can make the topping a little soggy!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful dish.

For the Filling:

1 lb ground lamb or beef
1 onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup peas
1 tsp pumpkin spice blend
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup beef or vegetable broth

For the Pumpkin Topping:

2 cups cooked mashed pumpkin
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup milk
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Salt to taste

With these ingredients ready, you're all set to create a delicious and unique shepherd's pie!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Pumpkin Spice Shepherd's Pie.

Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Add the onion, carrots, and garlic, cooking until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the peas, pumpkin spice, salt, and pepper, then pour in the broth and let simmer for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens.

Make the Pumpkin Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed pumpkin with butter, milk, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until creamy and smooth. If needed, adjust seasoning to taste.

Assemble and Bake

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, spread the filling evenly on the bottom. Layer the pumpkin topping over the filling, smoothing it out. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Now your Pumpkin Spice Shepherd's Pie is ready to be served! Enjoy the cozy flavors with your family and friends.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper into the filling for more depth in flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

While the classic recipe calls for ground lamb or beef, feel free to substitute with your favorite plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version. Brands like Beyond Meat or lentils can easily be swapped without sacrificing flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as plant-based meats tend to cook faster.

If you're in a pinch and don't have pumpkin spice on hand, you can create your own blend with equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. This will give you that warm, festive flavor profile essential to this dish, ensuring the taste is as comforting as intended.

Troubleshooting Tips

One common issue when preparing the filling is excess liquid, which can lead to a soggy bottom. To combat this, cook the filling a bit longer to reduce the broth before adding it to the baking dish, ensuring a thicker consistency. If you've added too much liquid, simply simmer it longer without a lid to evaporate some moisture.

If your pumpkin topping isn’t as creamy as desired, it could be due to uneven mixing or insufficient mashing. I recommend using a potato masher or hand mixer for best results. If it’s too thick, add an extra splash of milk to lighten it up. Aim for a smooth, spreadable consistency that holds its shape on top of the filling.

Presentation Ideas

To elevate the presentation of your Pumpkin Spice Shepherd's Pie, consider garnishing it with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives just before serving. These will add a pop of color that contrasts beautifully with the golden topping, bringing vibrancy to a comforting dish.

For an elegant twist, serve individual portions in ramekins. This not only makes for a stunning table setting but also allows for easy portion control. Just be sure to adjust baking time for smaller dishes, as they may cook through faster than a larger pie.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different meat for the filling?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer preservation.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and topping ahead of time, just assemble before baking.

→ What can I serve with this pie?

This pie is delicious on its own but pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread.