Pumpkin and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a delightful blend of seasonal flavors wrapped in comforting pasta. As the chill of autumn sets in, this dish becomes a go-to for many home cooks looking to impress family and friends with a cozy meal. What makes it so special is the creamy, savory filling combined with the sweetness of pumpkin—creating a unique flavor profile that’s both comforting and satisfying. I remember the first time I tried this dish at a friend’s dinner party; it was an instant hit that had everyone reaching for seconds.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe is a fantastic option for several reasons. First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. The combination of creamy ricotta and rich pumpkin puree is kid-approved, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will devour it. Not to mention, it’s budget-friendly; you can create a wholesome meal without breaking the bank. Perfect for family gatherings or even a cozy night in, Pumpkin and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are as versatile as they are delicious.
"A warm dish that embodies fall! This recipe was a new favorite for our family dinner." – Sarah K.
The cooking process explained
Making Pumpkin and Ricotta Stuffed Shells involves a few delightful steps that come together seamlessly. First, you’ll cook the pasta shells, then mix the filling, stuff the shells, and finally bake them with marinara sauce and cheese until bubbly. This step-by-step overview sets you up for success and allows for easy preparation.
What you’ll need
To whip up this comforting dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to customize this dish! Swap out the ricotta for cottage cheese or add spinach for extra nutrition.
Step-by-step instructions
Let’s dive into the preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the creamy pumpkin and ricotta mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover them with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving suggestions
Dress up your Pumpkin and Ricotta Stuffed Shells by serving them with a simple side salad or some warm breadsticks for dipping. A glass of crisp white wine or some homemade apple cider can complement the dish beautifully. For a fun twist, consider adding roasted nuts or seeds atop the casserole for a bit of crunch.
How to store & freeze
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to place them in an airtight container. If you want to freeze your stuffed shells, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
For perfect stuffed shells, ensure that your pasta is not overcooked to prevent them from falling apart during stuffing. Additionally, let your filling cool before stuffing to help maintain the pasta’s structure. Using a pastry bag to fill the shells can make this task quicker and cleaner.
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to get creative! Try adding herbs like sage or thyme for an aromatic boost. For those who love a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can spice things up. You can also swap the pumpkin for butternut squash puree for a different flavor while still keeping that seasonal essence.
Common questions
What’s the prep time for this dish?
Prep time is approximately 15 minutes, with a total cooking time of about 40 minutes.
Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade marinara sauce can elevate the dish even further.
What if I can’t find large pasta shells?
You can substitute with manicotti or even a different pasta shape, though the texture will differ.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator, then bake just before serving.
Pumpkin and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are sure to become a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire—a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and creamy that captures the essence of fall. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish!
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Pumpkin and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful blend of seasonal flavors wrapped in comforting pasta, featuring a creamy pumpkin and ricotta filling.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the creamy pumpkin and ricotta mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover them with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Feel free to customize this dish! Swap out the ricotta for cottage cheese or add spinach for extra nutrition. For perfect stuffed shells, ensure that your pasta is not overcooked to prevent them from falling apart during stuffing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian