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Pumpkin guts can be turned into a surprising number of tasty and useful things, from toasted seeds and rich pumpkin stock to homemade puree and even a quick face mask.
Most people scoop out the stringy insides, toss them straight into the bin, and never think twice about it.
But those pumpkin guts are actually packed with flavor and nutrients, and there are plenty of ways to put them to work.
If you’ve ever wondered what you can make with pumpkin guts, you’re in the right place.
In this post, we’ll walk through the best things you can make with pumpkin guts, plus a few clever tips so nothing goes to waste this fall.
Let’s get into it.
What Can You Make With Pumpkin Guts?
What you can make with pumpkin guts really depends on which part you’re working with.
The seeds are the easiest win, but the stringy flesh has its own uses too.
Here are the best things to make with pumpkin guts.
1. Toasted Pumpkin Seeds
This is the most popular thing to make with pumpkin guts, and for good reason.
Start by separating the seeds from the stringy pulp under running water.
Pat them dry, toss them with a little olive oil and salt, and roast at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes.
You can go sweet with cinnamon and sugar or savory with paprika and garlic powder.
Either way, toasted pumpkin seeds make a crunchy snack that disappears fast.
2. Homemade Pumpkin Stock
The stringy flesh and pulp you’d normally throw away can become a flavorful stock.
Simmer the pumpkin guts with onion, garlic, carrots, and herbs for about 30 minutes, then strain.
What you’re left with is a rich base for soups, stews, and risotto.
It’s one of the most underrated things you can make with pumpkin guts, and it costs basically nothing.
3. Fresh Pumpkin Puree
If your pumpkin guts include some actual flesh, you can blend it into puree.
Cook the flesh until soft, blend it smooth, and strain out any stringy bits.
That puree works in pies, muffins, pancakes, and even smoothies.
So yes, you can make pumpkin puree with pumpkin guts, and it tastes fresher than the canned stuff.
Creative Uses for Pumpkin Guts
Beyond the kitchen, there are plenty of creative things to make with pumpkin guts.
Here are a few favorites.
1. Pumpkin Guts Face Mask
Pumpkin is loaded with vitamins A and C, and the enzymes in the pulp are gentle on skin.
Mix a couple of tablespoons of mashed pumpkin guts with a spoonful of honey and a splash of milk.
Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse.
It’s a fun, frugal way to use pumpkin guts instead of wasting them.
2. Pumpkin Guts for the Garden
You can also make good use of pumpkin guts in your compost bin or garden bed.
The pulp breaks down quickly and adds nutrients to the soil.
Just bury small amounts or add them to your compost pile.
It’s one of the simplest things to make with pumpkin guts that gives back to your garden.
3. Pumpkin Guts Dog Treats
Plain cooked pumpkin is safe for dogs in small amounts.
You can mix pureed pumpkin guts into homemade dog treats or stir a spoonful into their food.
Just skip the seeds and any seasoning, and check with your vet first.
Tips for Prepping Pumpkin Guts
Before you make anything with pumpkin guts, a little prep goes a long way.
1. Separate Seeds From Pulp First
Pull the seeds out and rinse them right away, since they’re the star of the show.
The stringy pulp can go into a bowl for stock or puree.
2. Use Pumpkin Guts Quickly
Fresh pumpkin guts don’t last long in the fridge, so plan to use them within a day or two.
If you can’t get to them right away, freeze the pulp in bags for later.
3. Rinse and Dry the Seeds Well
Wet seeds steam instead of roasting, so dry them thoroughly before they hit the oven.
That’s the difference between soggy seeds and crispy ones.
So, What Can You Make With Pumpkin Guts?
You can make a lot with pumpkin guts, from toasted seeds and savory stock to fresh puree, face masks, compost, and even dog treats.
Nothing about those stringy insides has to go to waste.
Next time you carve a pumpkin, scoop out the guts and put them to work.
You’ll be surprised how many things you can make with pumpkin guts once you start.