Crockpot Turkey & Pumpkin Stew Recipe

Crockpot Turkey and Pumpkin Stew is a comforting slow cooker meal that combines shredded turkey, pumpkin puree, and warm spices into a hearty autumn-inspired dish. It is a practical way to use leftover turkey while creating a cozy meal with very little hands-on preparation.

The pumpkin adds a smooth base while cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg bring gentle seasonal warmth. Slow cooking allows the ingredients to blend together, creating a thick stew that is satisfying and easy to serve.

Why You’ll Reach for This Recipe Again

• Slow Cooker Simplicity: The crockpot handles the cooking while the flavors develop gradually.
• Great for Leftovers: A useful recipe for transforming cooked turkey into a new meal.
• Easy Preparation: Requires simple chopping, mixing, and seasoning.
• Comforting Meal Option: Makes a filling dish for cooler weather.
• Small Ingredient List: Uses straightforward ingredients without complicated steps.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well and can be enjoyed over several days.

Ingredient Notes & Easy Substitutions

1. Cooked Turkey: Shredded roasted turkey works best, especially leftover holiday turkey. Cooked chicken can also be used as a substitute.
2. Pumpkin Puree: Use plain unsweetened pumpkin puree for the best balance. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.
3. Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and savory depth. Vegetable broth works well for a lighter alternative.
4. Onion: Provides the aromatic base for the stew. Yellow or white onions both work well.
5. Warm Spices: Cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg create the seasonal flavor profile. Adjust the amounts slightly based on your preference.
6. Seasoning: Add salt gradually since cooked turkey and broth can already contain sodium.

Chef’s Tip: Shred the turkey into bite-sized pieces so it mixes evenly with the pumpkin base and stays easy to scoop with each serving.

Crockpot Turkey and Pumpkin Stew

This Crockpot Turkey and Pumpkin Stew combines tender pieces of turkey with smooth, sweet pumpkin puree, slow-cooked to develop rich, savory flavors and a velvety texture. The dish features a hearty, thick consistency with fragrant spices, showcasing a cozy autumn-inspired appearance and aroma.

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Comfort Food

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 4 minutes minutes

Total Time: 4 minutes minutes

Calories: 350kcal

Author: James Taylor

Servings: 6

Equipment

• ▢
  Slow Cooker
• ▢
  Mixing Spoon

Ingredients

• ▢ 1.5 pounds cooked turkey, shredded preferably leftover or roasted
• ▢ 1 cup pumpkin puree unsweetened
• ▢ 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth for added flavor
• ▢ 1 small onion finely chopped
• ▢ 2 cloves garlic minced
• ▢ 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ▢ 0.5 teaspoon ginger ground
• ▢ 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg
• ▢ to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Instructions

• Add the shredded turkey, pumpkin puree, chopped onion, and minced garlic into the slow cooker.
  
• Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt, and pepper over the ingredients.
  
• Gently stir everything together with a mixing spoon to evenly distribute the spices and liquids.
  
• Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for about 4 hours, until the flavors meld and the stew thickens slightly.
  
• After cooking, gently stir the stew to check its consistency and ensure everything is heated through.
  
• Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  
• Spoon the hearty, velvety stew into bowls, revealing its warm, fragrant, and thickened appearance, ready to serve.
  

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 80mg | Sodium: 600mg | Potassium: 800mg | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 40mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutrition Information

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Sweetened Pumpkin: Pumpkin pie filling can make the stew overly sweet.
• Overcooking Turkey: Since the turkey is already cooked, extended cooking can make it dry.
• Adding Too Much Broth: Excess liquid can prevent the stew from reaching a thicker consistency.
• Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Final seasoning should be checked after slow cooking.
• Cutting Turkey Pieces Too Large: Smaller pieces distribute better throughout the stew.
• Cooking on High Heat: Slow cooking on low helps the flavors blend more evenly.

Delicious Variations You Should Try

• Vegetable Version: Add carrots, celery, or potatoes for extra heartiness.
• Creamy Pumpkin Stew: Stir in coconut milk for a richer finish.
• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.
• Herb Addition: Include thyme or rosemary for a savory twist.
• Bean Version: Add white beans for extra protein and texture.
• Chicken Swap: Replace turkey with shredded chicken.
• Apple Turkey Version: Add diced apples for a subtle sweet contrast.

More Comfort Food Recipes You’ll Enjoy

1. Creamy Slow Cooker Potato and Carrot Soup
2. Roasted Sweet Potato Chili
3. Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup
4. Autumn Lentil Soup
5. Creamy Pumpkin Curry

Best Ways to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerator Storage: Store cooled stew in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer Storage: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the stew a day ahead and reheat gently before serving.
• Reheating: Warm slowly on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
• Freshness Tip: Store leftovers in smaller portions for easier reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use raw turkey in this recipe?
   No. This recipe is designed for cooked shredded turkey. Raw turkey requires different cooking times and preparation.
2. Can I make this stew without pumpkin?
   Yes. You can replace pumpkin with mashed butternut squash for a similar consistency.
3. Why is my stew too thin?
   The liquid may need more time to reduce, or you may have added extra broth.
4. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of pumpkin puree?
   Yes. Cooked and mashed pumpkin can replace canned puree.
5. What type of turkey works best for this recipe?
   Roasted turkey breast or thigh meat both work well because they shred easily.
6. Can I add potatoes to this stew?
   Yes. Add diced potatoes at the beginning so they have enough time to soften.
7. How can I make the stew more savory?
   Add extra garlic, herbs, or a small amount of Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor.
8. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
   Yes. Use the slow cook function or adjust the cooking method based on your pressure cooker settings.

James Taylor

hi there,
i’m James
The home cook and food blogger behind Beyond the Bayou Blog. Cooking has always been my happy place.
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