Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells With Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce
Filling jumbo pasta shells with creamy pumpkin and smoked Gouda, then baking them in rich brown butter and sage Alfredo sauce is what makes Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells a delightful dish. This recipe combines seasonal flavors with comforting textures, making it the ideal choice for family dinners or festive gatherings.
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Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells captivate your taste buds with their unique combination of flavors. The sweet notes of pumpkin beautifully merge with the smoky richness of Gouda, while the brown butter and sage Alfredo sauce ties everything together. This recipe is not only hearty but also visually stunning, making it a perfect centerpiece for any table. Plus, it’s simple to make and sure to impress your family and friends.
How to Make Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells
Ingredients:
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup smoked Gouda cheese (plus ½ cup for topping)
- 2 tbsp fresh sage, finely chopped
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente. Drain them and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, ricotta, smoked Gouda (reserve some for topping), chopped sage, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Stuff the Shells: Carefully fill each cooked shell with the pumpkin mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish.
- Make the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it turns golden brown. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a creamy sauce.
- Combine and Bake: Pour half of the sauce over the stuffed shells and reserve the rest for drizzling later. Sprinkle the remaining Gouda cheese on top. Bake in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Final Touch: Drizzle the reserved sauce over the shells before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Serve Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells
Serve the Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells warm, garnished with additional sage or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Pair them with a side salad or some garlic bread to complete your meal. This dish is perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, or any cozy family occasion.
How to Store Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells
To store leftovers, place the cooled stuffed shells in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed shells. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Tips to Make Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells Perfect
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh sage and high-quality Gouda for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the shells until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the pumpkin mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
Flavor Variations
- Cheese Substitutions: Try different cheese combinations like Gruyère or mozzarella to change the flavor profile.
- Add Protein: Mix in cooked turkey bacon or shredded chicken for added protein.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed spinach or mushrooms into the filling for extra nutrition.
Pro Tips for Success
- Prepare Ahead: You can mix the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, making assembly quick and easy.
- Baking Dish: Use a shallow but wide baking dish for a better presentation and even cooking.
- Don’t Skimp on the Sauce: Ensure you have enough sauce to keep the stuffed shells moist while baking.
FAQs About Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells
1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin provides a great flavor, but ensure you cook and puree it before using it in the recipe. This will give you the best texture and taste.
2. Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian as it contains no meat. If you want to make it vegan, you can substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use a non-dairy cream.
3. Can I bake these shells without the sauce?
While the sauce adds moisture and flavor, you can bake them without it. Just make sure to add a bit more cheese or a splash of stock to avoid dryness.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells With Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce is a dish that celebrates the flavors of fall while being simple and satisfying. With its creamy filling and rich sauce, everyone will be asking for seconds. Perfect for festive dinners or comforting family meals, this recipe is a must-try for everyone who loves delicious, homemade pasta. Enjoy your cooking and delight your loved ones with this amazing dish!
Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells With Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Boil salted water and cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente. Drain them and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, ricotta, smoked Gouda (reserve some for topping), chopped sage, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Carefully fill each cooked shell with the pumpkin mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it turns golden brown. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a creamy sauce.
- Pour half of the sauce over the stuffed shells and reserve the rest for drizzling later. Sprinkle the remaining Gouda cheese on top.
- Bake in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Drizzle the reserved sauce over the shells before serving for an extra layer of flavor.