Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells With Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce is a delightful dish perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings. This recipe combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and Gouda, creating a creamy filling that’s both comforting and indulgent. The addition of brown butter and sage in the Alfredo sauce elevates this meal, making it a standout option for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Filling: The creamy ricotta and pumpkin blend with Gouda create a delightful taste that satisfies any palate.
- Perfect for Any Event: Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday feast, these stuffed shells impress every time.
- Easy to Prepare: Despite its gourmet appeal, this dish can be made with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the filling or sauce based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Comfort Food Classic: This recipe embodies the essence of comfort food, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish:
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Baking dish
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Why These Tools Matter
- Baking dish: Essential for holding your stuffed shells while they bake to perfection.
- Large pot: Ideal for cooking the jumbo pasta shells without overcrowding them.
- Skillet: Perfect for sautéing onions and infusing flavor into your Alfredo sauce.
- Mixing bowl: Helps combine your filling ingredients smoothly.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells With Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce:
For the Stuffed Shells
- 1/2 pound jumbo pasta shells
- 1 1/4 cup ricotta
- 1/2 can pumpkin puree
- 1/3 + 1/3 cup Artikaas Ginger Pumpkin Seed Gouda, shredded
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1/2 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 large fresh sage leaves (plus more to fry and add on top)
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 4 tbsp salted butter
- 1 tbsp flour
- 2 cups heavy cream
- Pinch of salt and pepper

How to Make Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells With Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your shells bake evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells
Cook the jumbo pasta shells al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Sage
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced yellow onions along with half of the chopped sage. Sauté until the onions become translucent.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, pumpkin puree, 1/3 cup of shredded Gouda, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Once the onions are ready, mix them into your filling until well blended.
Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter until it starts to brown. Lower the heat and add in the remaining chopped sage. Stir until fragrant. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add half of the heavy cream while whisking continuously until thickened. Add in the rest of the cream along with salt and pepper; let it thicken again.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Spread half of the Alfredo sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling into each cooked shell and arrange them in the dish.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with remaining Gouda. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Top with freshly cracked black pepper and fried sage leaves before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells!
How to Serve Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells With Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce
Serving Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells is all about enhancing the flavors and presentation of this delicious dish. Here are some creative ways to serve these stuffed shells for a delightful dining experience.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens – A light salad with arugula, spinach, and a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the sauce.
- Caesar Salad – The classic Caesar with crunchy croutons adds a savory crunch that complements the creamy stuffed shells.
Add Garlic Bread
- Classic Garlic Bread – Toasted slices of baguette topped with garlic butter make a perfect side for scooping up extra sauce.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread – For an indulgent twist, top your garlic bread with cheese and broil until bubbly.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Fried Sage Leaves – Crispy sage leaves not only add flavor but also a beautiful garnish that enhances the dish visually.
- Chopped Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley provides color and freshness to the plate.
Serve in Individual Portions
- Ramekins – Bake individual portions for a family-style meal or special occasion, giving each guest their own serving.
- Plated Presentation – Serve on plates with a drizzle of sauce around the stuffed shells for an elegant presentation.
How to Perfect Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells With Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce
Perfecting your Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh garlic and herbs to enhance the flavors significantly.
- Avoid Overcooking Pasta – Cook the shells al dente to ensure they hold up during baking and maintain their shape.
- Adjust Seasoning Carefully – Taste your filling and sauce before baking to tweak seasoning as needed.
- Mix Cheeses Well – Ensure even distribution of gouda throughout the filling for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Let it Rest Before Serving – Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps the sauce thicken slightly for better serving.
- Experiment with Cheese Varieties – Try different types of gouda or even mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for varied taste profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells With Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce
Pairing side dishes with Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells enhances your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this rich dish beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice offers a fresh contrast to the creamy shells.
- Creamy Polenta – Smooth polenta can soak up any extra sauce while adding comforting texture.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a light and refreshing side that balances richness.
- Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in balsamic glaze add depth and flavor complexity.
- Quinoa Salad – A cold quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers protein and a nice chew alongside the pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells With Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can hinder the results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:
- Overcooking the pasta shells: Cooking the shells past al dente can lead to mushy pasta. Make sure to follow package instructions carefully and check for doneness.
- Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold ingredients like ricotta or cream can affect the sauce’s consistency. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- Not seasoning enough: Skipping seasoning can result in bland flavors. Be generous with salt, pepper, and spices like nutmeg to enhance the overall taste.
- Using low-quality cheese: Low-quality cheese can impact flavor and texture. Opt for high-quality gouda for the best results in your stuffed shells.
- Rushing the sauce preparation: Allowing the butter to brown properly is key to flavor. Take your time when making the sauce; rushing can lead to a less robust taste.
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store in an airtight container.
- item Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
- item Allow to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells With Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce
- item Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- item Best consumed within 2-3 months for best quality.
- item Label with date and contents for easy identification.
Reheating Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells With Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in short intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of cream or water while stirring until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells With Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce?
To make this dish, follow the provided recipe steps carefully, ensuring you cook each component properly for the best flavor and texture.
Can I customize the filling for Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells?
Absolutely! You can add sautéed spinach, ground turkey, or different cheeses based on your preference for added variety.
What sides pair well with Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells With Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce?
A light salad or garlic bread complements this creamy dish beautifully while balancing its rich flavors.
How should I store leftovers of Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.
Conclusion
Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells With Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Its creamy texture and savory notes make it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or sides!

Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells With Brown Butter & Sage Alfredo Sauce
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 stuffed shells) 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells with Brown Butter and Sage Alfredo Sauce, a delightful dish perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings. This comforting recipe features a creamy filling made from ricotta, pumpkin puree, and Gouda cheese, all enveloped in tender pasta shells. The brown butter and sage Alfredo sauce adds a savory depth that elevates this meal to gourmet status. Easy to prepare yet impressively delicious, these stuffed shells are sure to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound jumbo pasta shells
- 1 1/4 cup ricotta
- 1/2 can pumpkin puree
- 1/3 + 1/3 cup Artikaas Ginger Pumpkin Seed Gouda, shredded
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1/2 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 large fresh sage leaves (plus more to fry and add on top)
- 4 tbsp salted butter
- 1 tbsp flour
- 2 cups heavy cream
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook jumbo pasta shells al dente according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; sauté diced onions and half of the chopped sage until onions are translucent.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, pumpkin puree, one-third cup of shredded Gouda, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Add sautéed onions and mix well.
- For the Alfredo sauce, melt butter in a skillet until browned; add remaining sage and stir until fragrant. Whisk in flour, then gradually add heavy cream while whisking until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Spread half of the Alfredo sauce in a baking dish. Fill each shell with about 2 tablespoons of the pumpkin mixture and arrange them in the dish.
- Pour remaining Alfredo sauce over the shells and sprinkle with remaining Gouda. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with fried sage leaves and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed shell (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg