As I stood in the kitchen, the rich aroma of spiced sausage and creamy pumpkin wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to cozy fall evenings. These Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells are my go-to comfort food, combining hearty flavors and delightful textures in one satisfying dish. Not only are they a fun twist on traditional stuffed pasta, but they also come together quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. With a vegetarian-friendly option featuring fresh spinach, you can easily cater to all tastes at the table. Are you ready to bring some warmth to your kitchen this autumn? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why are these stuffed shells a must-try?
Comforting and Cozy: Each bite of these Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells brings warmth and joy, making them the perfect dish for chilly evenings.
Rich Flavor Fusion: The combination of creamy pumpkin and spicy sausage delivers a rich taste experience that’s sure to impress your family or guests.
Quick to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful meal in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Options: Cater to all dietary needs by easily swapping spicy sausage for a vegetarian alternative like spinach or experimenting with different cheeses from Cabot.
Perfect for Fall Gatherings: This recipe embodies the flavors of autumn, making it an ideal addition to your festive table or Thanksgiving dinner.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: The hearty ingredients and delicious flavors make this dish a guaranteed hit at any gathering, keeping everyone coming back for seconds!
Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Jumbo Pasta Shells – These are the foundation of your dish, slightly undercook them for a sturdy shell.
For the Filling
• Fresh Spicy Sausage – Adds a flavorful punch, but feel free to swap with fresh chicken sausage or a vegetarian option for a lighter twist.
• Chopped Broccolini – Adds a nutritious crunch; thawed frozen spinach works as a quick substitute if you’re in a pinch.
• Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient creating that magical creamy sauce; opt for plain pumpkin puree to avoid the sweetness of pie filling.
• Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese – Imparts luscious creaminess; you can swap it for mascarpone cheese if you’d like an even richer flavor.
• Ground Nutmeg – Elevates the overall taste profile; if you’re feeling adventurous, cinnamon could be a lovely variation.
• Cabot Mac ‘n Cheese Shredded Cheese – Melts beautifully into the sauce for that extra cheesy goodness; feel free to try different varieties according to your palate.
• Cabot Seriously Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Infuses robust flavor; other cheese types can also work if you want to switch things up.
• Sage Leaves – Provide a delightful herbal undertone; use dried sage if fresh isn’t available to you.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust these to suit your taste preferences.
For the Sauce
• Water – Helps to thin out the sauce, ensuring it’s perfectly pourable over your stuffed shells.
These Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells not only come together quickly but also embody the essence of comfort food every home chef craves!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (191°C). This temperature ensures that your Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells bake to perfection, becoming golden and bubbly. As the oven heats, you can gather your ingredients and prepare for the exciting cooking process ahead.
Step 2: Prepare the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, adding a pinch of salt. Cook the jumbo pasta shells for around 7 minutes until they’re al dente. After draining them, immediately transfer the shells to a bowl of ice water to stop further cooking, helping them maintain their structure for stuffing later.
Step 3: Brown the Sausage and Broccolini
In a large skillet, add fresh spicy sausage and cook over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula. Brown the sausage for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked, then add the chopped broccolini. Stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the broccolini to soften slightly before removing the mixture from the heat.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Using the same skillet, lower the heat and add pumpkin puree, a splash of water, ricotta cheese, and ground nutmeg. Stir the mixture gently over medium-low heat until it begins to bubble, around 5 minutes. Incorporate the Cabot Mac ‘n Cheese shredded cheese along with sage, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and well combined, enhancing those cozy flavors.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
In a generously greased casserole dish, pour in half a cup of the creamy pumpkin sauce, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This initial layer adds moisture and flavor to the dish as you layer the stuffed shells. It sets the stage for the deliciousness to come!
Step 6: Stuff the Pasta Shells
Take each cooled pasta shell and stuff them generously with the sausage and broccolini mixture. Nestle them close together in the casserole dish, which adds to the heartiness of your Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells. Make sure each shell is filled well for maximum flavor in every bite.
Step 7: Top with Sauce and Cheese
Once all the shells are in the dish, pour the remaining creamy sauce over them, ensuring they’re well-covered. Don’t skimp on the sauce; it will help keep the dish moist during baking. Sprinkle additional Cabot Seriously Sharp Cheddar cheese on top for that irresistible melty finish.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, keeping an eye out for the cheese to become bubbly and slightly golden. If you desire a crispy top, switch to broil for the last few minutes, allowing for that delightful golden crust to form.
Step 9: Serve Warm and Savory
Carefully remove your Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells from the oven and let them sit for a few minutes. Serve warm, perhaps alongside a refreshing green salad or some crusty garlic bread, ensuring everyone can indulge in this cozy fall delight!
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Freezer: These cheesy stuffed shells freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Ensure they’re well-covered with foil or in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat frozen stuffed shells, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
Make-Ahead: They can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake, saving you time on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells
There’s nothing quite like completing your cozy meal with delightful pairings that enhance the comforting experience of these stuffed shells.
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Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery texture of garlic bread balances the creamy shells, making it perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
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Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette cleanses the palate, allowing the rich flavors of the dish to shine through beautifully.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly sweet and nutty flavor adds a delightful crunch to the meal, enhancing the comfort of your stuffed shells.
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Cranberry Sauce: A touch of tartness from homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce complements the savory flavors, making it a wonderful fall pairing.
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Herb-Infused Rice: A bed of fluffy rice seasoned with fresh herbs can add texture and subtly absorb the delicious sauce, providing an excellent contrast.
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Warm Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm, spiced treat made with fresh apples sings of autumn and rounds off the meal with a lovely sweetness.
Enjoy your culinary adventure as you combine these elements, creating a comforting fall feast that’s sure to warm the hearts of your loved ones!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance by following the recipe instructions up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. Additionally, the assembled shells can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove from the fridge or freezer, let them sit for about 30 minutes to reach room temperature, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s just as satisfying with minimal effort on a hectic evening!
Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells Variations
Feel free to add your own twist to these stuffed shells for a truly personalized experience that delights the senses!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk ricotta with a plant-based cream cheese or cashew cream to create a dairy-free delight.
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Vegetarian: Swap the spicy sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms, enriching the filling with umami goodness that everyone will love.
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Heat Levels: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture if you’re craving a kick of heat; it pairs wonderfully with the creamy pumpkin!
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Cheese Lover’s Twist: Use a blend of different Cabot cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a melty experience that surprises the taste buds.
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Herb Variation: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, which add an aromatic depth and elevate this comforting dish to gourmet status.
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Nutty Finish: Top your shells with a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts before baking to incorporate a delightful crunch, enhancing the texture beautifully.
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Greens Booster: Mix in some sautéed kale or Swiss chard with the broccolini for extra nutrition, creating a colorful and hearty filling that brightens up the dish.
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Pumpkin Spice Delight: A sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice in the filling can elevate the flavor profile, giving your shells that cozy fall essence, reminiscent of sweet treats we love.
These variations are just the beginning! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can draw inspiration from my delicious recipes like Spicy Shrimp Sushi Stacks or Taco Stuffed Zucchini to create something uniquely yours. Enjoy experimenting and making these Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells your own!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells
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Undercook Pasta: Keep your jumbo shells slightly undercooked during boiling so they firm up while baking, preventing them from collapsing when stuffed.
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Use Ice Water: After cooking, immediately transfer the shells into ice water to halt cooking and maintain their shape. This step is crucial!
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Brown the Sausage Well: Take the time to fully brown your sausage for deeper flavors that elevate your Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells to the next level.
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Reserve Sauce for Topping: Set aside some creamy sauce to pour over the shells before baking. This keeps them moist and adds extra flavor.
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Layering is Key: Layer half the sauce in your casserole before stuffing the shells. It ensures they cook evenly and soak up all the delicious flavors.
Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells, opt for plain pumpkin puree. Avoid pumpkin pie filling as it contains added sugars and spices that could alter the dish’s intended savory flavor. Look for a brand that lists only “pumpkin” as an ingredient for the purest taste.
How should I store leftover stuffed shells?
Very! After enjoying your delicious stuffed shells, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for up to 2 days. When reheating, pop them in the microwave or back in the oven with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Can I freeze the Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells?
Indeed! These fluffy delights freeze wonderfully for up to 3 months. To freeze, arrange the assembled (but unbaked) stuffed shells in a freezer-safe container or wrap them securely in foil. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes to heat through.
What if my pasta shells tear while cooking?
No worries! If your pasta shells tear, don’t stress. Just take extra care when handling them as they cool. You can also use the broken pieces to fill in the gaps in the casserole dish. They’re still going to taste delicious!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily cater to dairy-free diets by swapping regular cheeses for lactose-free options like Cabot’s lactose-free cheddar. Additionally, using fresh spinach instead of sausage provides a vegetarian-friendly twist, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this cozy dish.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
Very! If you find your sauce too thick while preparing your Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells, simply add a little more water or a splash of milk to loosen it up. Stir continuously over low heat until you achieve your desired consistency, ensuring each bite is creamy and satisfying.
Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C).
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, adding a pinch of salt. Cook the jumbo pasta shells for around 7 minutes until al dente, then transfer to ice water.
- In a skillet, brown the sausage for 5-7 minutes, then add the chopped broccolini and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- In the same skillet, add pumpkin puree, a splash of water, ricotta cheese, and ground nutmeg. Stir over medium-low heat until bubbling, then mix in the shredded cheese, sage, salt, and pepper.
- In a greased casserole dish, pour half a cup of the creamy pumpkin sauce to layer the bottom.
- Stuff each cooled pasta shell with the sausage and broccolini mixture, nestling them in the casserole dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the shells and sprinkle with additional cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, optionally broiling for a golden crust.
- Serve warm, possibly with green salad or garlic bread.
