Anjali Arora
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisper, I find myself craving more than just pumpkin carvings and cinnamon scents. I stumbled upon an idea to combine leftover turkey with seasonal pumpkin in a slow cooker, highlighting the cozy chaos of fall. This dish transforms humble leftovers into a simmering bowl of warmth, not just for leftovers but for anyone seeking comfort in everyday ingredients.
There’s a nostalgic magic in turning the simplest ingredients into something truly satisfying. The aroma of spiced pumpkin mingling with savory turkey fills the kitchen with a nostalgic promise of home-cooked comfort. It’s extraordinary how a slow cooker can turn a busy day into a festival of flavors, all with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?
- I adore how it transforms leftovers into something exciting.
- The combination of pumpkin and turkey feels like fall in a bowl.
- Deliberately simple, yet packed with deep, warming flavors.
- A hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights and lazy weekends.
- The smell alone makes the house feel instantly cozier.
AVOID MY DISASTER (You’re Welcome)
- FORGOT to drain excess liquid—ended up with soup instead of stew—add a thickener or reduce liquid.
- DUMPED in too many spices—ended up overpowering—not enough salt balances flavors.
- OVER-TORCHED the stew—lost the delicate pumpkin flavor—keep an eye after 4 hours.
- MISSed adding seasoning at the right time—dull taste—adjust with salt and fresh herbs later.
QUICK FIXES THAT SAVE YOUR DAY
- When too watery, splash in a cornstarch slurry—stews thicken quickly and shimmer with richness.
- Shield over-seasoned dishes with dollops of plain yogurt or sour cream—cools and balances perfectly.
- When flavor’s muted, pop in a splash of Worcestershire—instant umami boost fills the kitchen with savory steam.
- If pumpkin flavors are shy, stir in a teaspoon of molasses or honey—adds depth and warmth.
- Smell burnt? Ditch the top layer—start fresh with a splash of broth, the smell will clear.
This stew is a quiet celebration of a season’s bounty, made for those chilly evenings that call for something hearty yet easy. It’s a reminder that even in chaos, home cooking can be simple and soul-satisfying. As the weather shifts, this cozy dish becomes a staple, pulling together ingredients that tell a story of fall’s quiet magic.
In the end, this dish isn’t just about eating—it’s about sharing a moment of warmth, infused with the scent of pumpkin and sage. It’s perfect for winding down after a busy day or for lazy weekend afternoons when comfort food feels most treasured. Whatever your leftovers, this stew offers a gentle embrace of autumn’s best flavors.
Autumn Pumpkin and Turkey Stew
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a skillet with olive oil over medium heat, then add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes, releasing a sweet aroma.2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- Add the minced garlic, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the skillet; cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker, then add the shredded turkey, pumpkin puree, and broth, stirring well to combine.2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the stew to thicken slightly.
- Open the lid and stir the stew, checking for seasoning; add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavor as needed.2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- Once the stew is bubbling and thickened to your liking, ladle it into bowls, and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Whether it’s a weeknight rescue or a weekend indulgence, this turkey and pumpkin stew adapts beautifully. The slow cooker turns minimal prep into a fragrant masterpiece, making busy lives just a little easier. It’s a reminder that some of the best fall memories are made around a simple, simmering pot.
As the seasons change, so do our kitchens, but the desire for something warm and familiar doesn’t fade. This recipe captures that essence, blending your leftovers into a dish that feels special—without the fuss. Sometimes, it’s the little pleasures like these that define the cozy magic of autumn.
Hi, I’m Anjali Arora — the curious heart behind Feast Chase.
To be honest, I’ve always felt most at ease in my own company. I’m not exactly a people-person (small talk still makes me cringe), but there are two things I’ve always loved deeply: animals and food.