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Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells

Savory Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells for Cozy Nights

Delight in Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells, perfect for busy nights or festive gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Stuffing
  • 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells Choose high-quality pasta for the best texture.
  • 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree Offers earthy sweetness and creamy consistency; fresh pumpkin can enhance the flavor.
  • 1 cup Ricotta Cheese Adds a luscious creaminess; mascarpone can be a delightful substitute.
  • 1 cup Smoked Gouda Cheese Provides a nutty flavor; mozzarella or ricotta can be swapped for variety.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Sage Infuses a beautiful autumn flavor; dried sage works in a pinch.
For the Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Essential for creating a nutty brown butter sauce.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Delivers richness in the Alfredo sauce.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Enhances the savory notes of the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Basic seasoning to dial in the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Basic seasoning to dial in the flavors.
For Assembly
  • 1/2 cup Reserved Smoked Gouda Sprinkle on top before baking for an extra cheesy layer.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Medium saucepan
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions until they reach al dente, typically around 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain the shells and gently rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside on a clean kitchen towel.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, and smoked Gouda, reserving some Gouda for topping. Season the mixture generously with salt, pepper, and finely chopped fresh sage. Stir well until the ingredients are evenly blended.
  3. Take each cooked jumbo shell and carefully fill it with the prepared pumpkin filling, making sure not to overstuff. Place the filled shells in a greased baking dish.
  4. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. After about 4-5 minutes, the butter should turn a beautiful golden brown. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Pour half of the rich brown butter sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the reserved Gouda over the top.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once heated, place the baking dish in the oven and bake the assembled stuffed shells uncovered for 25-30 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 18gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

These Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells are perfect for busy weeknights and make a stunning centerpiece for holiday dinners.

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