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Every time I make these Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta Shells, I am taken back to cozy autumn days. I remember the first time I decided to play around with butternut squash. I was visiting my older sister, who always knew how to work wonders in the kitchen. The smell of roasting squash, mixed with the savory scent of sausage and freshly chopped spinach, filled the air and wrapped around us like a warm hug. It was pure comfort food at its finest.
I know you’re going to feel that same warmth when you try this recipe. It’s more than a dish; it’s a heartfelt experience that you can share with your family and friends. As you roll up your sleeves and create this delicious meal, remember that it’s those little moments—sitting around the dinner table, laughing and sharing stories—that make it all worthwhile.
How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta Shells Stuffed with Sausage, Spinach, and Tomatoes
Ingredients
Here’s everything you will need to put together this creamy, dreamy dish!
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Large pasta shells | 12 |
| Butternut squash puree | 1 cup |
| Italian sausage | 1 lb (casings removed) |
| Fresh spinach | 2 cups (chopped) |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 cup (canned or fresh) |
| Ricotta cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1/2 cup (shredded) |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Onion powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup |
| Marinara sauce | 1 cup (for baking) |
Personal note: I love to use fresh herbs like basil or thyme in my filling! They add an extra layer of flavor that makes my heart sing.
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat Your Oven
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First, preheat the oven to 375°F. This step is key for achieving that perfect, bubbly top!
2. Cook the Pasta Shells
Now, cook the large pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente—slightly firm to the bite. This is important because we will bake them later. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
3. Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until it’s browned. The aroma of sizzling sausage will bring you to kitchen paradise!
4. Add Spinach and Tomatoes
Once the sausage is browned, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook until it’s wilted—this will only take a couple of minutes. Next, mix in the diced tomatoes, along with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir, letting those flavors marry for a minute longer.
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5. Make the Creamy Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the butternut squash puree, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese with your sausage mixture. You want to stir until it’s all well mixed, creating a creamy filling that’s absolutely divine!
6. Stuff the Pasta Shells
Now we get to the fun part—stuffing! Carefully fill each pasta shell with the creamy filling you just made. Don’t be shy! Be generous! Place each filled shell into a greased baking dish—I like to use cooking spray or a little olive oil.
7. Add Marinara Sauce
Once all your pasta shells are snug in the dish, pour marinara sauce over them. Don’t skimp on this part, as it adds moisture and flavor. Then, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
8. Bake the Dish
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Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to keep everything nice and juicy) and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The anticipation at this point is seriously mouthwatering!
9. Cool and Serve
Once done, let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. It’ll still be hot, but this brief waiting period gives you time to prepare for the delightful compliments that are sure to come your way!
Why I Love Making This Dish
There’s something incredibly magical about bringing people together over a warm meal. When I serve this dish, I can see the smiles on my family’s faces. Everyone loves the rich, creamy filling combined with the heartiness of the sausage and the comfort of the baked pasta. It warms not just my kitchen but my heart, too. I know you’ll find the same joy in making this dish for your family!
What You’ll Need
The only special tool you may need is a large baking dish and a good skillet. A mixing bowl will do wonders when you’re combining your creamy filling—nothing fancy required. Just simple tools that you likely already have in your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Cook the pasta shells until al dente, then drain.
- Brown the sausage in a skillet.
- Add spinach and tomatoes, then season.
- Combine cheeses with the sausage mixture to make a filling.
- Stuff the pasta shells generously.
- Cover with marinara sauce and cheese.
- Bake uncovered until bubbly.
- Let cool, serve, and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Results
To make these pasta shells even more special, consider these personal tips:
- I often add a pinch of nutmeg to the butternut squash puree for a warm spice kick.
- Make sure to check that your pasta shells are thoroughly cooked, but not overly so—no one likes mushy pasta!
- For a little kick, try using spicy Italian sausage instead of mild. It gives the dish an exciting twist!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
When I serve these Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta Shells, I love to pair them with a fresh green salad drizzled with a simple vinaigrette. The crispness of the greens complements the creamy pasta beautifully. Garlic bread on the side for that extra indulgence never hurt anyone either!
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Leftovers
Let’s be real—if there are any leftovers, you’re in for a treat! To store leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep well for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, pop them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Or, if you’re short on time, microwave individual servings for a quick and satisfying meal!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different kind of pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for large shells, you can use any pasta you like. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary.
Is it okay to freeze these shells?
Yes, you can assemble the dish and freeze it before baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen, adding a bit of extra time.
Can I skip the sausage?
You can definitely leave it out or substitute it with a veggie sausage or some finely chopped mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian option.
Conclusion
These Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta Shells Stuffed with Sausage, Spinach, and Tomatoes have become a cherished recipe in my home. From the moment those pasta shells come out of the oven, the aroma fills the whole house with warmth. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy and comfort of making this dish. You’ll find yourself looking for any excuse to whip it up again, and trust me—you’ll get requests for seconds! Share your experience with me once you try it, as I’m always eager to hear how it turns out for you!