Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells

Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells are a delightful dish that captures the essence of fall flavors. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, these stuffed shells combine creamy feta with savory sausage and fresh kale. The warming spices and pumpkin elevate this dish, making it a seasonal favorite that’s not only delicious but also freezer-friendly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich in Flavor: The combination of spicy sausage, creamy feta, and earthy pumpkin creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and ingredients, this recipe is approachable for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or as part of a potluck spread; it fits various occasions seamlessly.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make extra to store for later; they reheat beautifully without losing flavor.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with greens and protein, it’s a wholesome choice for dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready will make preparation quicker and easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Large pot
• Colander
• Oven-safe skillet or sauté pan
• Baking dish (if your skillet isn’t oven-safe)
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Essential for blending the feta filling smoothly and quickly.
• Large pot: Needed to boil pasta efficiently; it allows enough space for the shells to cook evenly.
• Oven-safe skillet: Ideal for preparing the sauce directly on the stovetop before baking.

Ingredients

To make Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells, gather the following ingredients:

For the Filling

• 10 oz. crumbled feta cheese
• 2/3 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt
• 2 Tbsp. honey
• 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided

For the Pasta

• 1 (12-oz.) box jumbo shells

For the Sauce

• 1 1/2 cups finely chopped yellow onion
• 8 oz. bulk hot or mild Italian sausage (beef, chicken, or turkey)
• 2 packed cups finely chopped lacinato kale (stems and ribs removed)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh sage leaves
• 1 tsp. Calabrian chiles (or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 2/3 cup half-and-half
• Kosher salt and cracked black pepper to taste

How to Make Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Step 2: Prepare Feta Filling

In a food processor:
1. Combine crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, honey, 1 Tbsp. olive oil, and black pepper.
2. Blend on HIGH until smooth and creamy (about 90 seconds). Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shells

1. Add jumbo shells to boiling water.
2. Cook until just shy of al dente.
3. Drain pasta and rinse under cold water to cool them down. Reserve extra shells in case any rip.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In an oven-safe skillet over medium heat, add remaining 1 Tbsp. olive oil.
2. Sauté chopped onion until soft (about 6 minutes).
3. Crumble in sausage; cook until starting to brown (5-7 minutes).
4. Stir in kale, garlic, sage, and Calabrian chiles; cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Mix in pumpkin puree, broth, and half-and-half; season with salt and pepper.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer until thickened (5-6 minutes). Transfer half of this mixture to a bowl.

Step 5: Assemble the Stuffed Shells

1. Spoon about 1½ tablespoons of whipped feta filling into each shell (you should fill about 22-24 shells).
2. Line up stuffed shells over remaining sausage-pumpkin sauce in the skillet.
3. Spoon reserved sauce over shells; sprinkle with additional crumbled feta if desired.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 17-20 minutes until bubbly. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells!

How to Serve Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells

Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells are not only a delightfully comforting dish but also versatile in how you can serve them. Pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess that pairs well with the stuffed shells.

With Garlic Bread

• Traditional Garlic Bread: Slices of crusty bread brushed with garlic butter, toasted until golden brown, make for a perfect side to scoop up the sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Knots: Soft dough knots topped with garlic and cheese add an indulgent touch to your meal.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Roasted Veggies: Roasting vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots in olive oil brings out their natural sweetness and complements the flavors of the dish.
• Herb-Infused Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that balances the meal.

How to Perfect Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells

To ensure your Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Add extra spices or herbs like thyme or oregano to enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.
• Texture Matters: Ensure your sausage is browned well for added texture. This helps create depth in each bite.
• Don’t Overcook the Shells: Cooking the shells just shy of al dente ensures they hold their shape when filled and baked, preventing them from becoming mushy.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality feta cheese for a richer taste. It makes a significant difference in flavor.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with fresh herbs or additional crumbled feta just before serving to add color and freshness to your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells

When serving Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells, complementing side dishes can enhance the dining experience. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comfort food pairing that’s hard to resist.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provide a sweet contrast to the spicy shells.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly dressed asparagus offers a fresh crunch that pairs nicely with the richness of stuffed shells.
4. Quinoa Salad: A nutty quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds a healthy touch to your table.
5. Broccoli Rabe Sauté: Bitter broccoli rabe sautéed with garlic balances the creamy filling of the shells beautifully.
6. Couscous with Herbs: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh parsley or mint brightens up your plate while adding texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.

• Skipping the cooling step: Not rinsing the cooked shells in cold water can lead to overcooked pasta. Always cool them down to prevent sticking.

• Overfilling the shells: If you stuff shells too much, they may burst during baking. Aim for about 1 ½ tablespoons of filling per shell for the best results.

• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season your filling and sauce can lead to bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect the texture and flavor of your filling. Make sure all components are at room temperature before mixing.

• Not letting it rest after baking: Cutting into the dish immediately can cause the filling to spill out. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving for easier plating.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Freezing Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells

• Place stuffed shells in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, storing for up to 3 months.

Reheating Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered with foil for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells, we’ve got answers!

Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?

You can substitute feta with ricotta or cottage cheese for a different flavor profile while maintaining creaminess.

How spicy are these stuffed shells?

The dish has a mild spice level from Calabrian chiles but can be adjusted by adding more or less based on your preference.

What can I serve with Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells?

These stuffed shells pair well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I make Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the shells in advance, store them in the refrigerator, or freeze them uncooked for later use.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Pumpkin and Feta Stuffed Shells offer a delightful blend of flavors, making them a perfect fall dish. With options for customization such as different greens or spices, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any palate. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!