Name: Savory Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 6 oz Bacon (Cooked until crispy); 1 cup Sweet Onion (Chopped); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1 tbsp Bacon Grease or Butter (For sautéing); 1 tsp Paprika (Try nutmeg or sage as alternatives); 1 cup Gouda Cheese (Shredded); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Pure pumpkin, not pie filling); 12 large Pasta Shells (Cooked al dente); to taste Salt and Pepper; 2 tbsp Chives (Chopped, for garnish)

As I opened my oven to a waft of smoky bacon mingling with the rich aroma of pumpkin, I realized I was about to unveil something special. These Crispy Bacon and Gouda Pumpkin Stuffed Shells are my go-to comfort meal for autumn, merging savory pumpkin filling with creamy gouda and a delightful crunch of bacon. Not only does this dish serve as the perfect main course for cozy dinners, but it’s also a quick and satisfying way to bring a bit of warmth to your kitchen. Imagine your loved ones gathered around the table, hearts and bellies full of this delicious baked pasta. Are you ready to transform your next meal into a blissful autumn feast? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are Pumpkin & Gouda Shells Irresistible?

Comforting Flavors: The savory pumpkin filling pairs wonderfully with creamy gouda and crispy bacon, creating a dish that’s bursting with autumnal flavors.

Simple to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master these stuffed shells. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for guests!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Everyone loves a warm baked pasta dish. These pumpkin and gouda stuffed shells are bound to impress at any gathering.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses or add herbs for an exciting twist. This recipe can easily cater to different tastes—such as swapping bacon for sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian delight!

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and simply pop them in the oven when it’s time to eat. They store well in the fridge for up to a week, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Indulge in this hearty recipe and pair it with a fresh salad to enhance your meal experience! For more comforting dishes, try out my Savory Baked Ziti or Creamy Spinach Lasagna that also please a crowd.

Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells Ingredients

• Discover the essential components for these delightful stuffed shells!

For the Filling

Bacon – Adds richness and a crispy texture; swap with sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Sweet Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; use yellow or white onions as substitutes.
Garlic – Enhances flavor; fresh minced garlic is preferred for the best taste.
Bacon Grease or Butter – Used for sautéing aromatics; can be exchanged for olive oil if desired.
Paprika – Adds a warm, smoky note; try optional spices like nutmeg or sage for extra flavor.
Gouda Cheese – Delivers creaminess and mild flavor; substitute with mozzarella or ricotta if desired.
Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient that provides sweetness and moisture; ensure it’s pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling.

For the Pasta

Large Pasta Shells – Must be cooked al dente to prevent overcooking when stuffed; manicotti can be used as an alternative.
Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings to taste.

For Garnish

Chives – Adds a fresh touch before serving, enhancing the dish’s appeal.

Enjoy crafting these indulgent Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells, perfect for cozy nights at home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cooking environment is hot enough to create a beautifully bubbling topping when you bake your delicious Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells. While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients and equipment, including a large baking dish and skillet.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium-low heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy, about 8-10 minutes. As the bacon renders its fat, it’ll turn golden and crunchy. Once done, remove the bacon and let it cool on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Save a tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet for sautéing the onions and garlic.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add chopped sweet onions and minced garlic. Sauté these over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This step builds the foundational flavors for your savory pumpkin filling.

Step 4: Combine the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed aromatics with pumpkin puree, half the crispy bacon (crumbled), and half of the gouda cheese. Season the mixture generously with paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well-incorporated and creamy, creating a scrumptious filling that embodies the essence of Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells.

Step 5: Prepare the Pasta Shells
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook large pasta shells until al dente, about 9-10 minutes. Be sure not to overcook them, as they’ll continue to soften in the oven. Once done, drain the shells and rinse them gently under cold water to halt the cooking process, making them easier to handle when stuffing.

Step 6: Stuff the Shells
Take each cooked shell and carefully stuff it with the creamy pumpkin filling using a spoon or piping bag for precision. Place the stuffed shells seam-side up into a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each shell. This sets the stage for the comforting flavors to meld during baking.

Step 7: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining crumbled bacon and gouda cheese generously over the stuffed shells. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, forming a beautiful golden crust. Keep an eye on it—the aroma will be irresistible as the Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells come together!

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once baked to perfection, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped chives to add a bright, fresh flavor contrast. Your Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells are now ready to impress your family and friends!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells

Fridge: Store cooked Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 20 minutes until warmed through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked stuffed shells in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat frozen shells, bake directly from the freezer at 350°F for 30-35 minutes. Add an extra layer of cheese on top for a deliciously gooey finish!

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. This makes weeknight dinners effortless, with minimal fuss on busy evenings.

Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells Variations

Feel free to personalize your Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells with these delectable twists that add even more character to this comforting meal!

Vegetarian Delight: Substitute bacon with sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option that still delivers on flavor.
Cheesy Extravaganza: Swap gouda with a blend of mozzarella and ricotta for a creamier texture that melts beautifully.
Pumpkin Spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground sage to the filling for a deeper, aromatic flavor that enhances the pumpkin’s sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Mix in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts into the filling for an added layer of texture and delightful crunch.
Heat It Up: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the filling for a spicy kick that contrasts the creaminess.
Herb Infusion: Fold in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color and an earthy brightness that complements the dish.
Creamy Spin: Drizzle a layer of alfredo sauce on top before baking, turning your stuffed shells into an extra-rich indulgence.
Seasonal Twist: Add roasted butternut squash to the filling for a sweet, seasonal complement that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin.

No matter how you choose to customize your dish, these variations invite you to explore endless possibilities. If you’re seeking more comforting pastas, don’t miss my Savory Baked Ziti or Creamy Spinach Lasagna that scrumptiously warm the hearts of all at the table!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells

Proper Cooking Time: Ensure pasta shells are cooked al dente; overcooking can make them mushy and difficult to stuff.
Cheese Control: Reserve some gouda for topping before baking to achieve a beautifully golden, bubbly crust that enhances the flavor of your Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells.
Flavor Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like sage or thyme within the filling to elevate the dish’s aromatic profile.
Filling Technique: Use a piping bag for easy stuffing of the shells, ensuring no overfilling or mess, leading to a neat presentation.
Storage Savvy: Allow leftovers to cool properly before storing them in an airtight container; they’ll maintain their flavor and texture for up to a week in the fridge.

What to Serve with Crispy Bacon and Gouda Pumpkin Stuffed Shells

Imagine the warmth of a cozy dinner table, enhanced by delicious accompaniments that elevate your comforting main dish to new heights.

Garlicky Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed with garlic add a vibrant crunch and freshness that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of stuffed shells.
Crisp Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette strikes a perfect balance between bitter and tangy, refreshing your palate after each bite of creamy pasta.
Herbed Garlic Bread: The buttery, herb-laden crunch of garlic bread provides the perfect opportunity to soak up the delicious pumpkin sauce from the stuffed shells.
Creamy Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw adds a cool and creamy texture that contrasts delightfully with the warm, savory stuffed shells, enhancing your meal’s complexity.
Roasted Butternut Squash: The sweetness of roasted butternut squash complements the savory pumpkin filling, creating a harmonious autumnal theme throughout your menu.
Sauvignon Blanc: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc will cut through the richness, while its bright citrus notes harmonize with the flavors of pumpkin and gouda.
Pumpkin Spice Cake: To finish off your meal, a slice of moist pumpkin spice cake offers a sweet note, rounding out the comforting autumn experience perfectly.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy pumpkin filling and stuff the shells up to 24 hours in advance, keeping the quality just as delicious. Simply assemble the filling by combining roasted pumpkin, crispy bacon, and gooey gouda, and then chill the filled shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and place the shells in a baking dish, adding any remaining cheese and bacon just before popping them in the oven for 20-25 minutes. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze, allowing you to savor a comforting meal without the hassle!

Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Always opt for pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that might alter the savory nature of your Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells.

How do I store leftovers of Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells?
Very simply! Store the cooked stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. When reheating, cover them with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through.

Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Indeed! For freezing, place uncooked stuffed shells in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How should I reheat frozen Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells?
To reheat, there’s a straightforward method: bake the frozen shells in a preheated 350°F oven for 30-35 minutes. I like to sprinkle a little extra cheese on top right before baking for that lovely gooey finish!

What if my pasta shells break while stuffing?
No worries at all! If you find your pasta shells are breaking, consider using a piping bag to fill them. You might also want to ensure they’re cooked al dente; overcooked shells are more prone to breaking. And if you do have some casualties, you can layer the broken shells in a baking dish, cover them with sauce and cheese, and turn it into a hearty casserole!

Are these stuffed shells suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta shells, which are widely available nowadays. Just remember to check the package instructions for cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can behave differently, but they’ll taste just as delicious in your Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells!