Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that captures the essence of Fall, then you’ve found it with these Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells. This recipe is like a warm hug on a plate! It’s packed with delicious flavors, making it perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings. The combination of creamy pumpkin sauce and spicy sausage creates a delightful experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

What makes this dish truly special is how easy it is to whip up. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can impress their families or guests. Once you try these stuffed shells, they’ll likely become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavors: The blend of rich pumpkin and savory sausage makes each bite a joyful experience.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it great for family dinners.
• Meal Prep Friendly: You can easily make these stuffed shells ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, you’ll be using some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. They come together beautifully to create a hearty meal full of flavor.

For the Stuffed Shells

• 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells
• 1 pound fresh spicy sausage (casing removed)
• 1 cup chopped broccolini

For the Cheesy Pumpkin Sauce

• 16 ounces pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup Cabot Mac ‘n Cheese shredded cheese (plus more for topping)
• 1/2 cup freshly shredded Cabot Seriously Sharp cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
• 4 sage leaves, roughly chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to customize it based on your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Swap the protein: If spicy sausage isn’t your thing, consider using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale along with the broccolini for extra nutrition.
• Make it vegetarian: Skip the sausage entirely and add extra veggies or beans for protein.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella or gouda for varied flavors.

How to Make Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Prepare Your Casserole Dish

Have a 9×13-inch oven-safe casserole dish ready. This will be where all that cheesy goodness comes together!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta shells for 7 minutes. This ensures they’re al dente and won’t get mushy during baking. While they cook, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice water. Once done, drain the shells and immediately place them into the cold water to stop cooking.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the spicy sausage. Browning the sausage adds great flavor as it cooks and breaks apart into smaller pieces. Add in chopped broccolini and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Once done, transfer this mix to a bowl and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Using the same skillet over medium-low heat, combine pumpkin puree, water, ricotta cheese, and nutmeg. Stir well until bubbly; this step ensures all flavors meld beautifully together. Then reduce heat further and mix in both types of shredded cheese along with sage, salt, and pepper until melted.

Step 5: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 °F (191 °C). This will ensure that your cheesy stuffed shells bake evenly and thoroughly.

Step 6: Assemble Your Dish

Pour about 1/2 cup of your delicious sauce into the bottom of your casserole dish. Set this aside as you fill those lovely pasta shells! Reserve another 1/4 cup of sauce before mixing the rest into your bowl of sausage and broccolini.

Step 7: Stuff Those Shells

Take each shell from the ice bath—gently shake off excess water—and fill them with your sausage mixture using a spoon. Place each stuffed shell into your prepared casserole dish until all filling is used up.

Step 8: Top It Off

Pour any remaining sauce over the stuffed shells before sprinkling additional cheese on top. This will create an irresistible crust once baked!

Step 9: Bake Until Golden

Slide your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. If you’d like an extra crispy finish, pop it under the broiler briefly while keeping an eye on it!

Step 10: Serve Warm

Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells

Making these stuffed shells is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your dish even further!

• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking the jumbo shells just slightly underdone allows them to hold their shape when baking. This prevents them from becoming mushy and ensures a perfect filling-to-sauce ratio.
• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to play around with the spices! Adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika can give your dish an extra kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh broccolini and high-quality cheeses. Fresh ingredients not only taste better but also contribute to the nutritional value of your meal.
• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance. Assemble everything up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven!
• Don’t skip the broiler: For that crispy, golden-brown topping, finish your dish under the broiler for a minute or two after baking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!

How to Serve Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells

Presentation is key when serving this comforting dish! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more inviting.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds color and freshness to the rich flavors of the stuffed shells.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who love a bit of heat, a light dusting on top just before serving can add a delightful kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic companion! The crispy texture and buttery garlic flavor pair beautifully with the cheesy sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with seasonal greens and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the stuffed shells perfectly.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These nutty little gems add crunch and depth. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for optimal flavor.
• Butternut Squash Soup: This warm soup complements the autumn flavors in the stuffed shells while adding another layer of comfort to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be set to impress family or friends at any gathering! Enjoy crafting this deliciously cheesy pumpkin delight!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a warm, comforting dish throughout the week without the hassle of daily cooking.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the assembled but unbaked shells in a freezer-safe dish.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the shells in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, add an additional 10-15 minutes of baking time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I use a different type of sausage in the Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! You can substitute spicy sausage with turkey sausage or any other preferred variety. Just make sure it complements the flavors of pumpkin and cheese.

How do I make the sauce for the Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, consider adding more ricotta cheese or reducing the amount of water used. You can also simmer it longer on low heat to evaporate excess moisture.

Can I prepare Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes! The stuffed shells can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake them.

What can I serve with Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly. You could also pair it with roasted vegetables for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells as much as I do! This dish not only warms your heart but also brings all those cozy autumn flavors together beautifully. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or saving some for later, it’s sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!