Slow Cooker Stuffed Pumpkin with Creamy Spinach & Bacon Filling (No Soup Required!)

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Got a whole pumpkin but don’t want soup? Try this easy and indulgent slow cooker stuffed pumpkin filled with creamy spinach, cheese, bacon, and savory flavors. A cozy, crowd-pleasing fall dish!

Introduction: The Pumpkin Recipe You Didn’t Know You Needed

“I had a whole pumpkin and didn’t want to make soup. Then I remembered a stuffed pumpkin post I saw months ago… and made my own version using my favorite spinach cob loaf dip!”

This Slow Cooker Stuffed Pumpkin is not just a genius way to use a whole pumpkin — it’s also a warm, cheesy, and flavor-packed crowd-pleaser. Think of it as the cozy marriage of your favorite spinach dip and roast pumpkin, slow cooked to perfection.

Whether you’re feeding a gathering, looking for a show-stopping side, or just want something different — this recipe will wow every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 whole medium pumpkin (approximately 2–3 kg)

• 1 block (250g) cream cheese – Philadelphia-style works best

• 1 cup sour cream – use a full-fat variety for extra creaminess

• 1/2 cup grated tasty cheese – cheddar or any sharp cheese of your choice

• 250g frozen spinach – thawed and thoroughly squeezed to remove excess water

• 1 packet dry spring vegetable soup mix – Knorr, Continental, or any brand you prefer

• 3 bacon rashers, cooked and finely chopped

• 1 cup water – added to the bottom of the slow cooker to help with steaming

• Aluminum foil strips – to create a sling for easily lifting the pumpkin after cooking

  Step-by-Step Instructions

   Step 1: Prep the Pumpkin

  • Cut the top off the pumpkin like a lid and scoop out all the seeds and stringy flesh.

  • Trim the base slightly if needed so the pumpkin sits flat.

  • Optional: lightly season the inside with salt and pepper.

   Step 2: Make the Filling

  In a mixing bowl, combine:

  • 1 block cream cheese (softened)

  • 1 cup sour cream

  • 1/2 cup grated cheese

  • 250g thawed spinach (squeezed to remove excess water)

  • 1 packet of dry spring vegetable soup mix

  • 3 rashers of bacon, cooked and finely chopped

  Mix until well combined and creamy.

   Step 3: Stuff the Pumpkin

  • Fill the cleaned-out pumpkin cavity with the spinach and cheese mixture.

  • Replace the pumpkin “lid” on top.

   Step 4: Set Up the Slow Cooker

  • Place strips of aluminum foil in a crisscross shape in the bottom of the slow cooker (this makes it easier to lift the pumpkin out later).

  • Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of the slow cooker to create gentle steam.

  • Place the stuffed pumpkin on top of the foil strips.

   Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

  • Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours.

  • The pumpkin should be tender enough to cut through easily, and the filling will be hot, cheesy, and bubbling.

   Step 6: Serve and Impress!

  • Carefully lift the pumpkin out using the foil.

  • Slice into wedges or scoop out the creamy filling with chunks of soft roasted pumpkin.

  • Serve with crusty bread, pita chips, or crackers.

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  Tips & Variations

  • Make it vegetarian: Simply omit the bacon.

  • Add spice: Mix in a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for a kick.

  • Mini version: Use small pumpkins or acorn squash for individual servings.

  • No slow cooker? Bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 90 minutes or until the pumpkin is soft.

  Storage & Reheating Tips

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Reheat: Microwave individual portions or warm in the oven covered in foil at 160°C (320°F).

  • Not freezer-friendly: Due to the dairy content, this is best enjoyed fresh.

  Why This Stuffed Pumpkin Is a Must-Try

  Fun and festive presentation
   Easy slow cooker recipe
   Great way to use a whole pumpkin
   Cheesy, creamy, savory, and satisfying
   Feels fancy, but incredibly easy

  Final Thoughts

  This Slow Cooker Stuffed Pumpkin with Creamy Spinach & Bacon Filling proves you don’t need to turn every pumpkin into soup. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you’ll have a stunning centerpiece dish that’s as delicious as it is creative.

  Perfect for fall, holidays, or just a cozy weekend meal!

enjoy!