Looking for a comforting, fall-inspired dish that’s both hearty and flavorful? These Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Stuffed Shells are the perfect choice. With a delicious blend of roasted butternut squash, savory turkey sausage, and rich cheeses, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s an ideal dish for those cooler evenings when you crave something warm and satisfying. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound turkey sausage, casings removed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus more for topping
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Roast the Butternut Squash:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the squash on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
- Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Cook the Pasta Shells:
- While the squash is roasting, cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the shells and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet, cook the turkey sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and dried sage.
- Add the roasted butternut squash to the skillet, mixing well.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and ricotta cheese until well combined.
4. Stuff the Shells:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce (optional) on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the butternut squash and sausage mixture, placing them in the baking dish.
- Top the shells with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. These Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Stuffed Shells are perfect for a cozy fall meal!
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Calories: 460 per serving | Servings: 6
Enjoy this delightful dish that perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors, making it a great addition to any fall dinner menu!