Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells

The Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells is the ultimate Fall comfort dish! This recipe combines a creamy, cheesy pumpkin sauce with tender stuffed shells packed with savory sausage and vibrant broccolini. Perfect for cozy dinners, festive gatherings, or simply indulging in a hearty meal, these stuffed shells are sure to impress with their rich flavors and delightful textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin puree and spicy sausage creates a unique and savory taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this comforting dish even on busy weeknights.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe serves four, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the stuffing by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese!
• Cozy Comfort Food: The creamy sauce and warm pasta shells offer a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather your essential tools before getting started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• 9×13-inch oven-safe casserole dish
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta shells to the perfect al dente texture.
• Skillet: Used for browning sausage and creating the delicious pumpkin sauce.
• Casserole dish: Ensures even baking of the stuffed shells while holding all the flavors together.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Shells

• 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells

For the Stuffing

• 1 pound fresh spicy sausage (casing removed)
• 1 cup chopped broccolini

For the 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)

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 hold all your delicious stuffed shells as they bake.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
1. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook for 7 minutes.
2. While cooking, prepare a large bowl filled with ice water.
3. Once cooked, drain the shells and immediately place them in the ice water to stop further cooking. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add the spicy sausage. Brown it while breaking it into smaller pieces.
2. Once browned, add the chopped broccolini and cook until softened—about 5 minutes.
3. Transfer mixture into a bowl to cool.

Step 4: Create the Pumpkin Sauce

In the same skillet over medium-low heat:
1. Combine pumpkin puree, water, ricotta cheese, and nutmeg.
2. Stir until bubbly, then reduce heat further.
3. Add Cabot Mac ‘n Cheese shredded cheese, Cabot Seriously Sharp cheddar, sage, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir until fully combined and melted. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 375 °F (191 °C).
2. Pour about 1/2 cup of sauce into the bottom of your casserole dish.
3. Reserve 1/4 cup of sauce; add remaining sauce to cooled sausage-broccolini mixture and stir well.

Step 6: Stuff the Shells

Remove each pasta shell from ice water:
1. Gently shake off excess liquid.
2. Use a spoon to fill each shell with sausage filling.
3. Place filled shells in casserole dish; repeat until all filling is used.

Step 7: Bake

Pour any remaining sauce over stuffed shells:
1. Sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired.
2. Bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
3. Optionally broil briefly for extra crispiness—watch closely!

Step 8: Serve

Serve warm, enjoy this comforting dish with family or friends!

How to Serve Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells

These Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells make a delightful main course that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad – Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad – A classic choice; use romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy dressing to complement the rich flavors of the stuffed shells.

Offer Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Warm and crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Italian Focaccia – Soft and flavorful, focaccia adds an aromatic touch that pairs well with the dish.

Add Seasonal Vegetables

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts – A side of caramelized Brussels sprouts can provide a crunchy texture and earthy flavor.
• Sautéed Green Beans – Lightly sautéed green beans with garlic offer a fresh, vibrant addition.

How to Perfect Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells

Achieving the perfect Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells involves careful preparation and cooking techniques. Here are some tips to ensure you get it just right.

• Choose Quality Sausage – Using fresh spicy sausage enhances the flavor profile. Opt for high-quality meat without fillers for the best results.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook the jumbo shells until al dente. They will finish cooking in the oven without becoming mushy.
• Use Fresh Herbs – Incorporating fresh sage or other herbs can elevate the dish by adding vibrant flavors.
• Adjust Cheese Varieties – Feel free to mix different cheeses for unique flavors. A combination of cheeses can create a rich, melty texture.
• Let it Rest Before Serving – Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking lets the flavors meld together perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells

Serving side dishes alongside your Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Consider these delicious options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting, hearty option.
2. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus offers a crunchy contrast and bright color on your plate.
3. Caprese Salad – Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side.
4. Roasted Root Vegetables – A medley of roasted carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes brings sweetness that complements the dish beautifully.
5. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs, lemon juice, and veggies adds protein and fiber while being refreshing.
6. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob provides a sweet crunch that pairs wonderfully with cheesy pasta dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells, it’s easy to overlook some details that can impact your dish. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the Cooling Step: If you don’t cool your pasta shells in ice water after cooking, they may become too soft and difficult to handle. Always place them in ice water to maintain their structure.

• Overcooking the Sausage: Cooking the sausage for too long can make it dry. Brown it just until it is cooked through and slightly crispy, then remove it from heat.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can dull the flavors of your dish. Taste your filling and sauce throughout cooking to ensure proper seasoning.

• Underestimating Sauce Amount: Using too little sauce can lead to dry stuffed shells. Make sure to reserve enough sauce for both baking and serving.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking without preheating can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven for consistent results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best quality.

Freezing Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
• Enjoy within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.

• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells:

Can I use different types of sausage?

Absolutely! You can substitute spicy sausage with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option while still retaining flavor.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Make sure to rinse the cooked shells in cold water immediately after boiling, which helps prevent sticking during assembly.

Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to the baking step, store them in the refrigerator overnight, and bake them just before serving.

What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?

If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, butternut squash puree works as an excellent alternative with a similar texture and sweetness.

How do I customize my filling?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or switch up the cheeses based on your preferences!

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells are not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by varying the fillings or sauces based on what you have at home. Try this delightful dish; it’s perfect for cozy dinners!