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Spicy Pumpkin and Pesto Cheese Stuffed Shells

Indulgent Spicy Pumpkin and Pesto Cheese Stuffed Shells Delight

Enjoy a delightful twist on a classic with spicy pumpkin and pesto cheese stuffed shells, perfect for cozy fall evenings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 1 lb Spicy Italian Sausage substitute with turkey or plant-based sausage
  • 1 cup Pumpkin Puree canned or homemade
  • 1 cup Ricotta Cheese consider cottage cheese as a lighter alternative
  • 1 cup Shredded Fontina Cheese mozzarella or cheddar can be substituted
  • ½ cup Basil Pesto chimichurri or herb-infused olive oil can be used
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoon Olive Oil avocado oil makes a good substitute
  • 1 medium Red Pepper bell pepper can be used for a milder flavor
  • ½ cup Vodka omit for non-alcoholic version
  • 1 cup Milk almond milk works for dairy-free option
  • to taste Oregano
  • to taste Red Pepper Flakes
For the Pasta
  • 1 box Jumbo Pasta Shells cook until al dente
For Topping
  • 1 cup Torn Mozzarella provolone or vegan cheese can be substituted

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • baking dish
  • pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage and brown for about 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently until caramelized. Lower the heat, then stir in the chopped red pepper and pumpkin puree. Pour in the vodka and milk, season with oregano, red pepper flakes, and salt, and simmer for 15 minutes until thickened.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente, typically about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the shells and rinse them under cool water to prevent sticking. Set the shells aside as you prepare the filling.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded fontina cheese, and half a cup of basil pesto. Stir until well blended and creamy.
  4. Spread three-quarters of the prepared sauce in a greased baking dish. Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the cheesy filling and arrange the stuffed shells in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the shells and finish with torn mozzarella.
  5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to customize with your preferred cheeses or add extra veggies. Leftovers freeze wonderfully! Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

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