Easy Butternut Squash Pasta Shells Baked Skillet Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, this Butternut Squash Pasta Shells Baked Skillet is exactly what you need. Imagine tender pasta shells generously filled and baked with a luscious, creamy butternut squash sauce, paired with melty cheese and a hint of warmth from aromatic spices. This recipe blends comfort and simplicity, delivering deliciousness that’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough for any day you want to treat yourself.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Classic: Creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection, this skillet dish feels indulgent yet wholesome.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy evenings when you want something homemade fast.
• One-Pan Wonder: Combines cooking and baking in one dish, meaning fewer pots and less cleanup.
• Seasonal Goodness: Highlights the natural sweetness and creaminess of fresh butternut squash.
• Customizable: Adapt the recipe easily to suit vegetarian, gluten-free, or extra cheesy preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Butternut Squash Pasta Shells Baked Skillet lies in the straightforward, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something magical. Each item adds a special touch, balancing creamy texture, savory depth, and vibrant color.

• Butternut Squash: Fresh or frozen, this adds natural sweetness and velvety creaminess to the sauce.
• Pasta Shells: Large shells are perfect for stuffing and holding onto all the creamy goodness inside.
• Cream Cheese: Adds richness and smooth mouthfeel, helping bind the sauce together.
• Parmesan Cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty flavor that’s essential for that irresistible baked topping.
• Garlic and Onion: Build a savory base that complements butternut squash’s subtle sweetness.
• Vegetable Broth: Keeps the sauce light while enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Fresh Herbs: Thyme or sage for warmth and brightness against creamy elements.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding a silky finish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to bring everything alive.

Variations for Butternut Squash Pasta Shells Baked Skillet

One of the best things about the Butternut Squash Pasta Shells Baked Skillet is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you want to cater to dietary needs or add a personal twist, this recipe takes it all in stride.

• Vegan Swap: Replace cream cheese with cashew cream and use vegan cheese alternatives.
• Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta shells without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked sausage, ground turkey, or chickpeas for extra heartiness.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or cayenne powder to add some heat.
• Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted walnuts or pecans before baking for a delightful texture contrast.

How to Make Butternut Squash Pasta Shells Baked Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash

Peel and cube the butternut squash, then roast it in the oven until tender and caramelized, about 25-30 minutes. Roasting unlocks natural sweetness and creates a richer flavor base for the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

While the squash roasts, boil the large pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, making sure not to overcook—they’ll soften more during baking.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a pan, sauté minced garlic and chopped onions in olive oil until translucent. Add the roasted butternut squash, vegetable broth, cream cheese, and seasonings, then blend until silky smooth. This sauce is the heart of the recipe, bringing all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble the Skillet

Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the creamy squash sauce, then arrange the filled shells in a baking dish. Sprinkle generously with Parmesan and any additional cheese you love for that irresistible crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the skillet in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. The baking melds all the flavors into a perfectly gooey, comforting dish.

Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash Pasta Shells Baked Skillet

• Choose Fresh Squash: Fresh butternut squash gives a more vibrant flavor than frozen, but both work well.
• Don’t Overfill Shells: Leave some space inside the pasta shells to avoid spillage during baking.
• Use a Food Processor: To blend the sauce smoothly and quickly without lumps.
• Pre-Roast the Squash: Roasting preps the squash with a deeper flavor and better texture in the sauce.
• Cheese Variety: Mix Parmesan with mozzarella or Gruyere for a richer cheese pull.
• Fresh Herbs Finish: Sprinkle chopped fresh thyme or sage on top just before serving for a fragrant boost.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Pasta Shells Baked Skillet

Garnishes

Top your baked skillet with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a scattering of crispy sage leaves for a pop of color and fresh herbal notes that balance the rich creaminess.

Side Dishes

Complement this dish with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus to add brightness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in small ramekins for a charming presentation or create a buffet-style spread by plating alongside garlic bread and a bowl of steamed greens for a complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the flavors continue to develop overnight for an even tastier meal the next day.

Freezing

This Butternut Squash Pasta Shells Baked Skillet freezes well. Arrange the assembled dish in a freezer-safe container before baking, freeze for up to 2 months, and bake directly from frozen by adding extra baking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent drying, until warmed through and bubbly. The stovetop works too with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of shells?

Yes, but large pasta shells are ideal because they hold the filling well. Jumbo shells or large manicotti tubes work best for stuffing.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Not as written, but you can easily make it vegan by swapping cream cheese for vegan cream cheese or cashew cream, and using vegan cheese substitutes.

How do I make the sauce extra creamy?

Adding a bit of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese can enhance the creaminess, or blend the sauce longer for a smoother texture.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the filled shells in the baking dish and refrigerate for up to a day before baking, saving you precious time on busy nights.

What can I serve with Butternut Squash Pasta Shells Baked Skillet?

A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables make perfect sides, balancing the richness of the pasta with freshness and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Butternut Squash Pasta Shells Baked Skillet is a testament to how simple ingredients can turn into a heartwarming, crave-worthy meal. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you want cozy, cheesy goodness without hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this easy baked skillet, it’s destined to become your go-to comfort food recipe that you’ll happily return to again and again.

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