Save Luxurious jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy pumpkin and smoked Gouda blend, baked with a rich brown butter and sage Alfredo sauce. The ultimate autumn comfort dish for festive gatherings or cozy dinners.
This recipe has become my favorite fall dinner to share with friends and family, bringing warmth and smiles to the table.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 jumbo pasta shells
- Filling: 1 cup canned pumpkin puree, 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 cup smoked Gouda cheese shredded (plus ½ cup for topping), 2 tbsp fresh sage finely chopped, Salt and pepper to taste
- Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce: 4 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 cup heavy cream, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) Grease a medium baking dish.
- Step 2:
- Cook jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente Drain and let cool slightly.
- Step 3:
- In a medium bowl combine pumpkin puree ricotta cheese 1 cup smoked Gouda chopped sage salt and pepper Mix until smooth.
- Step 4:
- Fill each shell generously with the pumpkin mixture and arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
- Step 5:
- In a saucepan over medium heat melt butter until it foams and turns golden brown with a nutty aroma (about 3 4 minutes) Immediately stir in heavy cream Parmesan cheese salt and pepper Simmer for 2 3 minutes stirring until thickened Remove from heat.
- Step 6:
- Pour half of the Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells Sprinkle the reserved ½ cup smoked Gouda on top.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 25 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Step 8:
- Warm the reserved sauce and drizzle over the shells just before serving Garnish with extra sage if desired.
Save This dish always brings my family together, making every dinner a special occasion.
Notes
Serve with a crisp green salad and dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.
Required Tools
Large pot Colander Mixing bowl Medium saucepan Baking dish Spoon or piping bag (for filling shells)
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (pasta) Milk/Dairy (ricotta Gouda Parmesan cream butter) May contain traces of eggs (depending on pasta used) Always verify ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
Save Enjoy this rich and comforting dish that captures the essence of autumn in every bite.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best for stuffing?
Jumbo pasta shells are ideal due to their size and shape, allowing ample room for filling while maintaining structure during baking.
- → How do I achieve the brown butter flavor?
Melt unsalted butter over medium heat until it foams and turns golden, releasing nutty aromas, usually in 3–4 minutes. Remove promptly to avoid burning.
- → Can I substitute Gouda with other cheeses?
Yes, smoked Gruyère or Fontina work well, adding different levels of creaminess and smokiness to the filling and topping.
- → How should I prepare the sage for optimal flavor?
Finely chop fresh sage leaves to release their aromatic oils, which infuse both the filling and Alfredo sauce with herbal warmth.
- → What are the best side dishes to pair with this meal?
A crisp green salad and a dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complement the rich flavors and balance the creamy textures.
- → Can this dish be prepared in advance?
Yes, assemble the stuffed shells up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake shortly before serving for best results.