Pumpkin Shakshuka (Baked Eggs in Tomato Stew)
This Pumpkin Shakshuka (Baked Eggs in Tomato Stew) is a delightful twist on traditional shakshuka. Packed with flavors and nutrients, this dish makes for an excellent breakfast or brunch option during the fall season. With its vibrant colors and savory aroma, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy weekends at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or spontaneous brunches.
- Rich in Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree, fire-roasted tomatoes, and spices creates a hearty and satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out.
- Nutritious: Loaded with vitamins from pumpkin and eggs, this shakshuka provides a healthy start to your day without sacrificing taste.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with crusty garlic toast, over rice, or even alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This dish caters to vegetarian diets while still being filling and flavorful.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Pumpkin Shakshuka efficiently, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Here are some essential items you’ll need to bring this recipe to life.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
- Kitchen knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Lid
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: Retains heat well, ensuring even cooking of the shakshuka.
- Kitchen knife: Essential for dicing vegetables quickly and safely.
- Measuring spoons: Guarantees accuracy in spice measurements for balanced flavors.

Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion (diced small)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (veins removed and chopped small)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 28 ounces fire roasted tomatoes
For Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For Topping
- 6 large eggs
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Pumpkin Shakshuka (Baked Eggs in Tomato Stew)
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Heat the olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 2 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Add in the minced garlic and chopped bell peppers. Cook until they begin to brown. Stir in the pumpkin puree along with fire-roasted tomatoes and spices until well combined. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Prepare the Eggs
Create six shallow wells in the tomato mixture. Crack an egg into each well. Cover with a lid and cook until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny, about 8 minutes.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Garnish your Pumpkin Shakshuka with fresh parsley. Spoon it onto crusty garlic toast for a filling savory breakfast that everyone will love!
Enjoy your deliciously unique Pumpkin Shakshuka as a nourishing meal any time of day!
How to Serve Pumpkin Shakshuka (Baked Eggs in Tomato Stew)
Pumpkin Shakshuka is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.
With Garlic Toast
- Freshly toasted bread topped with garlic butter complements the savory tomato stew and perfectly captures the runny yolks.
Sprinkle of Feta Cheese
- Crumbled feta adds a salty contrast that balances the sweetness of the pumpkin, making each bite even more delightful.
Avocado Slices
- Creamy avocado slices can be added on top or served on the side for a rich texture and healthy fats.
Fresh Greens Salad
- A light salad with arugula or spinach dressed in lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm shakshuka.
Pita Bread
- Soft pita bread is great for scooping up the shakshuka and enjoying every last bit of the delicious sauce.
Hot Sauce Drizzle
- For those who enjoy some heat, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can elevate this dish with extra flavor.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Shakshuka (Baked Eggs in Tomato Stew)
Perfecting your Pumpkin Shakshuka requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices bring out the best flavors in your shakshuka.
- Adjust spice levels: Customize the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
- Don’t rush cooking: Allowing the ingredients to simmer melds flavors beautifully; don’t skip this step.
- Cover while cooking: Using a lid helps cook the eggs evenly while keeping them tender and runny.
- Experiment with toppings: Try different garnishes like cilantro or chives for unique flavor profiles.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy shakshuka right after cooking for optimal taste and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Shakshuka (Baked Eggs in Tomato Stew)
Pairing side dishes with Pumpkin Shakshuka enhances the meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a hearty companion.
- Sweet Potato Hash: A sweet potato hash adds a touch of sweetness that complements the shakshuka perfectly.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach provides a nutritious side that adds color and nutrients.
- Chickpea Salad: A refreshing chickpea salad tossed with lemon juice will balance the richness of the shakshuka.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf infused with spices offers a wholesome grain option alongside this dish.
- Herbed Yogurt Dip: A cool yogurt dip mixed with fresh herbs can add creaminess and offset spiciness nicely.
- Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumber salad dressed in vinegar gives a refreshing crunch that contrasts well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pumpkin Shakshuka can be exciting, but it’s easy to stumble along the way. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Bold Flavor Choices: Using bland spices can lead to a tasteless dish. Always ensure your spices are fresh and properly measured for maximum flavor.
- Bold Cooking Time: Overcooking the eggs can result in a rubbery texture. Keep an eye on them and remove from heat once the whites are set but yolks remain runny.
- Bold Ingredient Quality: Using low-quality canned tomatoes may affect the overall taste. Opt for high-quality fire-roasted tomatoes for a richer flavor profile.
- Bold Skillet Selection: Not using a cast iron skillet can make it challenging to achieve even cooking. A cast iron skillet retains heat well and enhances flavors.
- Bold Serving Technique: Skipping the garnish may make your dish less appealing. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness, providing a beautiful presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for best freshness.
Freezing Pumpkin Shakshuka (Baked Eggs in Tomato Stew)
- Cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and consume within 2-3 months.
Reheating Pumpkin Shakshuka (Baked Eggs in Tomato Stew)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil; reheat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Gently warm over medium heat while stirring until heated through, about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Pumpkin Shakshuka.
Can I make Pumpkin Shakshuka (Baked Eggs in Tomato Stew) ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato base ahead of time. Just add the eggs right before serving.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
You can use silken tofu or chickpea flour mixed with water as an egg substitute for a vegan version.
How do I spice up my Pumpkin Shakshuka?
Feel free to add jalapeños or other spices like coriander or turmeric to elevate the flavor profile of your dish.
Is Pumpkin Shakshuka (Baked Eggs in Tomato Stew) gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any gluten-based ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin Shakshuka is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast that perfectly embodies autumn flavors. With its savory components and vibrant colors, it’s perfect for sharing at brunch or enjoying solo. Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to make it truly yours!
Pumpkin Shakshuka (Baked Eggs in Tomato Stew)
Experience the warmth of autumn with this Pumpkin Shakshuka (Baked Eggs in Tomato Stew), a delightful twist on the traditional breakfast dish. This nourishing recipe combines creamy pumpkin puree with fire-roasted tomatoes and aromatic spices, creating a hearty stew that pairs perfectly with runny baked eggs. It’s not only quick and easy to prepare—taking just 25 minutes—but also rich in vitamins and flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or leisurely brunches.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion (diced small)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (veins removed and chopped small)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 28 ounces fire roasted tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 6 large eggs
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and chopped bell peppers; cook until they start to brown. Stir in pumpkin puree, fire-roasted tomatoes, and spices. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Create six shallow wells in the mixture and crack an egg into each well. Cover with a lid and cook until egg whites are set but yolks remain runny, about 8 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 186mg
