Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Stuffed Shells

Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Stuffed Shells are a comforting and savory dish that combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the rich flavor of turkey sausage. Stuffed into large pasta shells and baked to perfection with a blend of cheeses, this meal is ideal for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of tender squash, savory sausage, and melted cheeses offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey sausage
• 1 butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 1 box jumbo pasta shells
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey sausage until browned. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Using the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the diced butternut squash until it becomes tender.
4. In a large pot of boiling water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey sausage, butternut squash, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped sage, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the prepared mixture and arrange them in a baking dish.
7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and golden.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the turkey sausage and use a plant-based sausage or mushrooms as the filling base.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the filling or use a spicy sausage variety for a bit of heat.
• Extra Greens: Add spinach or kale to the filling for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta shells for a gluten-free version of the dish.
• Cheese Swap: Substitute the mozzarella or ricotta with other cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a different taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, depending on the portion size.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage? Yes, you can use chicken sausage, pork sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage as a substitute for turkey sausage.
2. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and bake them when ready to serve. Just increase the baking time by a few minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
3. Can I freeze the stuffed shells? Yes, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed shells. Cover them tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, increasing the baking time as needed.
4. Can I use pre-cooked butternut squash? Yes, pre-cooked or roasted butternut squash can be used to save time. Just be sure to mash it slightly before mixing with the other ingredients.
5. How do I make sure the pasta shells don’t stick together? Make sure to cook the pasta shells in plenty of water and stir them gently during cooking. Rinse the cooked shells under cold water to prevent sticking.
6. Is this dish spicy? This dish is not inherently spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage for a heat boost.
7. What can I serve with this dish? A fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with these stuffed shells.
8. Can I make this dish without cheese? Yes, you can omit the cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives for a vegan version.
9. Can I use a different pasta shape? While jumbo shells are ideal, you can use other large pasta shapes like manicotti or cannelloni if you prefer.
10. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. It holds up well and can be stored in individual servings for easy reheating.

Conclusion

Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Stuffed Shells are a delicious and hearty meal perfect for any occasion. The creamy cheese, savory sausage, and tender butternut squash create a comforting dish that is sure to satisfy. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or prepping it ahead for a busy week, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines ease and flavor in every bite.

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