Creamy Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Stuffed Shells Recipe

Cozy autumn nights call for a hearty butternut squash & turkey sausage stuffed shells that promise comfort in every bite.

Pasta shells cradle a delightful blend of savory sausage and sweet roasted squash.

Creamy ricotta cheese adds a luxurious touch to this satisfying dish.

Mediterranean herbs weave through the filling, creating layers of unexpected flavor.

Weeknight dinners become special when you bring this recipe to the table.

Nutritious ingredients combine to deliver a meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Why Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Stuffed Shells Are a Comfort Food

• Savor Hearty Comfort: Packed with rich, satisfying flavors of turkey sausage and creamy butternut squash, this dish delivers pure comfort food magic that warms your soul.
• Transform Ordinary Meal: Elevate your dinner routine with these stuffed shells, turning a simple pasta dish into a gourmet experience that looks and tastes restaurant-worthy.
• Nutrition Powerhouse: Combine lean protein from turkey sausage with vitamin-rich butternut squash, creating a balanced meal that nourishes your body while delighting your taste buds.
• Crowd-Pleasing Potential: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings, these stuffed shells appeal to both kids and adults with their cheesy, creamy texture and inviting aroma.

Ingredients for Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Stuffed Shells

• Butternut Squash: A sweet and creamy vegetable that adds rich flavor and nutrition to the stuffed shells.
• Ground Turkey Sausage: A lean protein that provides savory depth and hearty texture to the filling.
• Jumbo Pasta Shells: Large pasta shells perfect for holding the delicious stuffing mixture.

• Ricotta Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: A blend of cheeses that creates a creamy, melty, and flavorful filling.

• Sage: A fragrant herb that complements the butternut squash and turkey sausage with its earthy flavor.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Olive Oil: Used for cooking the butternut squash and preventing sticking.

How to Make Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375°F, getting it ready for a delicious baking adventure.

Step 2: Brown the Turkey Sausage

Sizzle the ground turkey sausage in a large skillet until it turns a rich, golden brown. Once cooked, transfer to a side plate.

Step 3: Soften the Butternut Squash

In the same skillet, splash a bit of olive oil and cook the butternut squash until it becomes tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Gently drop in the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Mix the Filling

• Cooked turkey sausage
• Tender butternut squash
• Creamy ricotta cheese
• Melty mozzarella cheese
• Sharp Parmesan cheese
• Fragrant sage
• Salt
• Pepper

Stir everything together until well blended.

Step 6: Stuff the Shells

Generously fill each pasta shell with the delectable mixture, nestling them snugly in a baking dish.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and slide into the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the top turns golden and the edges bubble with excitement.

Step 8: Serve and Savor

Pull out the bubbling dish and serve immediately. Get ready for a mouthwatering meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Stuffed Shells

• Swap ground turkey sausage with plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian version that maintains the hearty flavor profile.
• Roast butternut squash beforehand to intensify its natural sweetness and develop deeper caramelized notes.
• Use gluten-free jumbo shells for those with wheat sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting dish.
• Choose low-fat ricotta and mozzarella to reduce calories without compromising creamy texture and rich taste.
• Add red pepper flakes for extra warmth and kick, transforming the recipe into a spicier, more exciting meal.

Variations for Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Stuffed Shells

• Vegetarian Delight: Replace turkey sausage with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a meat-free version packed with protein and flavor.
• Spicy Southwest Shells: Add diced green chilies, cumin, and chili powder to the filling for a zesty southwestern-inspired recipe with a kick.
• Mediterranean Style: Incorporate spinach, feta cheese, and oregano to transform the dish with Mediterranean herbs and tangy cheese notes.
• Pumpkin Patch Variation: Swap butternut squash for roasted pumpkin and add nutmeg for a seasonal autumn-inspired stuffed shell experience.

Pairing Suggestions for Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Stuffed Shells

• Pairing Fresh Herbs with Bright Aromas: A sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary alongside the dish elevates the earthy flavors of butternut squash and turkey sausage, creating a delightful sensory experience.
• Wine Companion Selection: Choose a medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, which complements the creamy cheese and delicate squash notes without overpowering the dish's subtle seasonings.
• Crisp Side Salad Balance: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the stuffed shells, providing a refreshing contrast and adding bright, zesty undertones to the meal.

Storage Advice for Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Stuffed Shells

• Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture and maintain freshness.
• Wrap individual portions or the entire dish in freezer-safe plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months without losing quality.
• Preheat oven to 350F, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through and cheese melts.
• Place shells on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring halfway for even heating.

FAQs on Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Stuffed Shells

• How do I know when the butternut squash is tender?

The squash is tender when you can easily pierce it with a fork and it mashes without resistance.

• Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey sausage with chicken sausage or Italian sausage for different flavor profiles.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the recipe uses traditional pasta shells. To make it gluten-free, you’ll need to use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells.

• What can I do if the filling seems too dry?

Add a splash of chicken broth or a little extra olive oil to help moisten the mixture and improve overall texture.

Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Stuffed Shells Recipe

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4.6 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comforting butternut squash & turkey sausage stuffed shells marry hearty Italian flavors with seasonal ingredients. Creamy cheese, savory sausage, and sweet roasted squash create a satisfying meal you’ll crave on chilly evenings.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (1 lb) ground turkey sausage
• 1 butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 1 box jumbo pasta shells

Cheese:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Olive oil

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 375°F, preparing a welcoming environment for the stuffed shells.
2. Sauté ground turkey sausage in a skillet until it develops a rich, golden-brown color and releases its savory aroma.
3. Using the same skillet, drizzle olive oil and gently cook butternut squash until it becomes tender and caramelized.
4. Boil jumbo pasta shells in a large pot according to package directions, ensuring they are al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
5. Create a harmonious filling by combining the cooked turkey sausage, roasted butternut squash, creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, fragrant sage, and a perfect balance of salt and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
6. Carefully fill each pasta shell with the robust mixture, nestling them snugly in a baking dish.
7. Shield the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the top turns golden and the edges become delightfully bubbly.
8. Serve immediately, allowing the aromatic shells to be the centerpiece of a warm, satisfying meal.

Notes

• Customize the heat by selecting mild or spicy turkey sausage based on personal preference.
• Swap ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter, protein-packed alternative that maintains creamy texture.
• Pre-roast butternut squash beforehand to enhance natural sweetness and develop deeper caramelized flavors.
• Consider freezing assembled stuffed shells before baking for convenient make-ahead meal prep that saves time during busy weeks.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 310 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 420 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 65 mg