Description
Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells are a deliciously comforting dish perfect for the Fall season. This recipe combines creamy pumpkin sauce with savory sausage, creating a hearty meal that’s sure to impress family and friends at any gathering. Each jumbo pasta shell is generously filled with a flavorful mixture that balances the richness of cheese and the warmth of spices, offering a delightful experience in every bite. Easy to prepare, this cozy casserole is an ideal choice for both casual weeknight dinners and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound fresh spicy sausage (casing removed)
- 1 cup chopped broccolini
- 16 ounces pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (like Cabot Mac 'n Cheese)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (like Cabot Seriously Sharp)
- Fresh sage leaves, salt, and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of boiling water for about 7 minutes until al dente. Transfer them into an ice bath immediately after draining.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the spicy sausage while breaking it into smaller pieces. Add chopped broccolini and cook until softened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.
- In the same skillet on medium-low heat, mix pumpkin puree, water, ricotta cheese, and nutmeg until bubbly. Stir in shredded cheeses and sage until melted together.
- Pour some sauce into the bottom of the casserole dish. Mix cooled sausage and broccolini with most of the sauce; reserve some for topping.
- Stuff each shell with the filling and arrange them in the casserole dish. Top with remaining sauce and extra cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly; optionally broil briefly for crispiness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg