Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a skillet over medium heat; add the onion, corn, and bell pepper; and cook for 5 minutes, or until soft. Add the garlic, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika and cook for 30 seconds more, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat.

In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, pumpkin, and egg yolk and mix with a wooden spoon. Add the onion–corn–pepper mixture, parsley, salt, and black pepper, to taste. Stir and add the bread crumbs and cheese. Stir until combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Shape the pumpkin mixture into six ¾-inch-thick patties. Place them in the skillet and cook, in batches, if necessary, for 3 minutes on each side, or until lightly browned, turning once. Serve with or without buns, passing the ranch dressing at the table, if desired.