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Stuffed Shells with Delicata Squash and Brown Butter
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Baking dish

Ingredients
  

  • 16 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 medium delicata squash
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 10 fresh sage leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F. Cut the delicata squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and cut into half-moon slices. Toss the slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
  • While the squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo shells until just al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  • Mash the roasted squash in a bowl until mostly smooth with a few small chunks remaining. Stir in the ricotta, 1/2 cup of the Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper until combined.
  • Spoon the squash filling into the cooked shells and arrange them in a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan over the top.
  • Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, then add the sage leaves. Continue cooking until the butter turns golden brown and the sage crisps, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  • Pour the brown butter and sage over the stuffed shells. Serve right away.

Notes

Roast the squash a day ahead and store it in the fridge so assembly goes faster on busy nights. If the brown butter starts to darken too quickly, lower the heat right away to keep the flavor nutty instead of bitter. Leftovers reheat well in a covered dish at 350°F with a splash of water to keep the shells from drying out.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Baking sheet, Large pot, Skillet, Baking dish