Tartiflette-Style Stuffed Pumpkins

Instructions: How to Make Tartiflette-Style Stuffed Pumpkins

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkins

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by preparing the pumpkins:

• Slice off the top of each pumpkin and scoop out the seeds and stringy bits. You can use a spoon to carefully scrape out the insides.
• Brush the inside of each pumpkin with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
• Place the pumpkins on a baking sheet and set them aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Boil the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender but not too soft. Drain the potatoes and set them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Onion

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Once the bacon is crisp, remove it from the pan and set it aside, leaving some of the rendered fat in the skillet.

Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and cook it in the bacon fat over medium heat until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine the Filling Ingredients

Once the onions and garlic are cooked, return the bacon to the pan. Add the cooked potatoes to the skillet and mix everything together gently.

Pour in the white wine (if using) and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to meld together.

Now, stir in the crème fraîche or heavy cream, and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. The mixture should be creamy and slightly thickened. Add the grated cheese and stir until it’s melted and everything is well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Stuff the Pumpkins

Carefully spoon the filling mixture into each prepared pumpkin, packing it in as you go. Be sure to fill each pumpkin generously, leaving just enough room at the top for the filling to bubble up as it cooks.

Step 6: Bake the Stuffed Pumpkins

Once the pumpkins are stuffed, cover them loosely with foil and place them in the oven. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the pumpkins are tender and the filling is hot and bubbly.

In the last 10 minutes of baking, remove the foil so the tops of the pumpkins can brown slightly, and the cheese on the filling can become golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the stuffed pumpkins from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary, if desired, for a touch of color and fragrance.

Serve each stuffed pumpkin as a main course, or slice them into wedges as part of a festive fall feast. The sweet pumpkin pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy filling, making every bite a comforting experience.

Tips for Success:

• Choose the Right Pumpkins: Look for small pumpkins that are tender and flavorful, such as sugar pumpkins or sweet dumpling squash. Avoid carving pumpkins, as they tend to be too watery and not as flavorful.
• Adjust the Cheese: If you can’t find Reblochon cheese, Gruyère, Swiss, or Fontina make excellent substitutes. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can also try adding a little blue cheese to the mixture.
• Add More Vegetables: For a more veggie-packed filling, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the mix.
• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the filling and stuff the pumpkins in advance, then refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.

Conclusion

Tartiflette-Style Stuffed Pumpkins are a delightful and creative way to enjoy the flavors of the classic French dish, with a seasonal twist. The rich and creamy filling pairs perfectly with the sweet and tender pumpkin, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for fall. Whether served as a main course or as part of a larger spread, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

So, the next time you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful dish to enjoy with loved ones, give these stuffed pumpkins a try – they’re a warm, delicious celebration of the season!