Name: Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk); 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce

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Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a culinary hug in a dish, combining the creamy richness of ricotta with the sweet earthiness of pumpkin. Imagine sinking your fork into these oversized pasta shells filled with a luscious blend that feels like a warm, cozy embrace on a chilly day. For more inspiration, check out this marinated cucumbers salad recipe.

Every bite of these Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells bursts with flavor and comfort, bringing back memories of family gatherings around the table. Whether it’s a festive fall dinner or simply a Tuesday night craving for something special, this dish guarantees to elevate any occasion and leave your taste buds dancing.

Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells

This amazing Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells:

Jumbo Pasta Shells: These large shells are perfect for stuffing and hold all that creamy goodness inside.
Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for extra creaminess; it’s the star of the show!
Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin puree or homemade pumpkin for the best flavor; avoid pumpkin pie filling.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds depth to your stuffing mixture and enhances flavor beautifully.
Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach adds color and nutrition; be sure to squeeze out excess moisture if using frozen.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevates the entire dish—don’t skip it!
Marinara Sauce: A simple store-bought or homemade marinara serves as a delicious base for your stuffed shells.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, pumpkin puree, half of the grated parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined—this is where magic starts happening!

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Using a spoon (or your hands if you’re feeling adventurous), fill each jumbo shell generously with the pumpkin-ricotta mixture. Don’t be shy—stuff them like they’re going out of style!

Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells seam-side up in the dish. Pour remaining marinara sauce over shells and sprinkle with remaining parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to keep those shells cozy!) and bake for about 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Serve

Carefully remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired—because why not add some green flair?

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra marinara sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Now your kitchen smells like autumn wrapped in love! Enjoy these delightful Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells at your next gathering or as a comforting weeknight meal. Bon Appétit!

You Must Know About Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells

This amazing Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by preparing your filling while the pasta cooks al dente. Once the shells are stuffed, layer them in a baking dish with sauce and cheese, then bake until bubbly and golden.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the ricotta for mascarpone for a creamier texture, or add spinach for extra nutrients. Experiment with spices like nutmeg or sage to elevate your dish!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that your cheesy goodness stays intact.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells

This amazing Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

When making these shells, I recall my cousin’s face lighting up after her first bite—she declared it was “life-changing.” Who knew stuffed pasta could bring such joy?

FAQs

What is Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells?

Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a delightful pasta dish that combines large pasta shells filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese and pumpkin puree. This comforting recipe often features spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, enhancing the flavor profile. The stuffed shells are typically baked in a marinara sauce or a creamy béchamel, resulting in a warm, hearty meal perfect for fall gatherings or family dinners. This dish not only looks appealing but also brings together the rich flavors of pumpkin and cheese, making it a favorite among many.

How do you prepare Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells?

To prepare Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells, start by cooking the pasta shells until al dente. While they cook, mix ricotta cheese with pumpkin puree, grated Parmesan, spices, and salt in a bowl. Once the shells are ready, stuff them generously with the ricotta-pumpkin mixture. Arrange them in a baking dish topped with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden brown for about 25-30 minutes. Serve warm for an unforgettable dining experience.

Can you make Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells ahead of time! Prepare the stuffed shells as directed but refrain from baking them immediately. Instead, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply remove from the refrigerator and bake directly from cold; you may need to add extra time to ensure they are heated through completely.

What variations can I try with Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells?

There are various delicious variations you can try with Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells! For a twist, consider adding sautéed spinach or kale to the ricotta mixture for added nutrition. You could also experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for unique flavors. If desired, incorporate cooked sausage or ground turkey into the filling for extra protein. Additionally, using different sauces like Alfredo instead of marinara can introduce new taste profiles to this classic dish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells offer a wonderful blend of flavors that cater to both comfort food lovers and those seeking seasonal dishes. By preparing these stuffed shells ahead of time or experimenting with variations, you can create a memorable meal that delights everyone at your table. Don’t forget to savor this unique combination of pumpkin and ricotta when trying out this recipe. Give these Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells a try; they might just become your new favorite!