As the leaves turn and a chill fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice wafting from the kitchen. But let’s move beyond the pumpkin pie (though we love that too!) and dive into something truly special: a Cozy Herb-Infused Pumpkin Casserole. This isn’t your average pumpkin casserole; we’re elevating the classic with a fragrant blend of fresh herbs, a touch of sweetness, and a creamy, decadent texture that will have everyone reaching for seconds. It’s the perfect side dish for Thanksgiving, a cozy weeknight dinner, or even a festive brunch. Prepare to fall in love with this autumnal masterpiece!
Why You’ll Love This
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of pumpkin, warm spices, and fresh herbs creates a complex and incredibly satisfying flavor profile.
- Comfort Food Defined: This casserole is the epitome of comfort food – warm, creamy, and utterly delicious.
- Versatile Side Dish: It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, poultry, or even as a vegetarian main course with a side salad.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble this casserole ahead of time, making it a lifesaver during busy holiday seasons.
- Unique & Elevated: The herb infusion sets this recipe apart from traditional pumpkin casseroles, offering a sophisticated twist.
Ingredients & Equipment
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Equipment:
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl for graham cracker topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, maple syrup, eggs, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
- Add Herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh sage and thyme.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and chopped pecans (if using). Mix well until evenly moistened.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the graham cracker topping evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the topping is golden brown. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
- Cool & Serve: Let the casserole cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Fresh Herbs are Key: While dried herbs can be used in a pinch, fresh sage and thyme truly elevate the flavor of this casserole.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry casserole. Keep a close eye on it during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon to your liking. A pinch of ground cloves or ginger can also add a nice warmth.
- Graham Cracker Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of graham crackers, you can use crushed gingersnaps or even a streusel topping.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cozy Herb-Infused Pumpkin Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole (without the topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The graham cracker topping is best made fresh, so it’s not recommended to freeze the casserole with the topping already applied.
Print
Cozy Herb-Infused Pumpkin Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and flavorful pumpkin casserole with herbs, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
¼ teaspoon salt
3 cloves garlic
2 large eggs
½ cup heavy cream
15 ounces pumpkin puree
6 tablespoons ricotta cheese
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
½ teaspoon dried sage
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Combine salt, garlic, eggs, and cream in a bowl. Whisk until smooth.
3. Whisk in the pumpkin puree.
4. Spread the mixture into a casserole dish (7×11 pan recommended).
5. Spoon ricotta cheese over the pumpkin mixture.
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, rosemary, sage, and thyme.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
8. Optional: Sprinkle additional Parmesan and salt before serving.
Notes
Use fresh herbs for a stronger flavor if available.
Adjust salt to taste.
Serve warm for best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg