Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells are a delightful blend of flavors. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a potluck. The combination of pumpkin and spicy sausage brings warmth and comfort, while the creamy cheeses add richness. It’s a unique twist on traditional stuffed pasta that is sure to impress your family and friends.
How to Make Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells
Ingredients
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Pumpkin puree
- Spicy sausage
- Cream cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Pepper
- Marinara sauce
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook the spicy sausage until browned.
- In a bowl, mix together the cooked sausage, pumpkin puree, cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the pumpkin and sausage mixture.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with additional marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells
Serve these stuffed shells hot from the oven. They pair well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, on top for added flavor and a nice presentation.
How to Store Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep for about 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave. To reheat in the oven, cover with foil and bake until warmed through.
Tips to Make Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells
- Make sure to cook the pasta shells al dente so they don’t become mushy during baking.
- You can adjust the level of spiciness by choosing mild or hot sausage, depending on your preference.
- For extra creaminess, consider adding more cream cheese or mozzarella to the filling.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by swapping in different types of sausage, such as chicken or turkey sausage. For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage entirely and add more vegetables, like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
FAQs
Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance. Just keep them in the fridge before baking.
Can I freeze Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells?
Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap them tightly in foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
What can I do with leftover pumpkin puree?
You can use leftover pumpkin puree in smoothies, baked goods, or soups. It’s versatile and adds great flavor!
Cheesy Pumpkin and Spicy Sausage Stuffed Shells
A delightful blend of flavors, featuring jumbo pasta shells stuffed with pumpkin and spicy sausage, topped with creamy cheeses and marinara sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or potluck.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Pumpkin puree
- Spicy sausage
- Cream cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Pepper
- Marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook the spicy sausage until browned.
- Mix together the cooked sausage, pumpkin puree, cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the pumpkin and sausage mixture.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with additional marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For extra creaminess, consider adding more cream cheese or mozzarella to the filling. Adjust the level of spiciness by using mild or hot sausage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Meat
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
