Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that brings a bit of warmth to your kitchen, then Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells are just what you need! This delightful recipe combines creamy ricotta cheese and sweet pumpkin puree nestled inside tender pasta shells. It’s a dish that reminds me of family gatherings and Sunday dinners, perfect for both busy weeknights and festive occasions. Trust me, once you try these stuffed shells, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your home!

What I love most about this recipe is how it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and wholesome goodness. You can easily whip it up in under an hour and impress everyone at the table with its delicious flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a hearty meal that looks as good as it tastes.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy filling and cheesy goodness!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously Unique Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and ricotta creates a delightful twist on traditional stuffed shells.
• Comfort Food Classic: Perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something warm and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells shine! You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store, making this recipe easy to put together.

For the Shells

• 1 box Jumbo Pasta Shells (about 24 shells)
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 15 oz can pumpkin puree
• 1 cup grated fresh parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 Tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 Tablespoon minced fresh sage

For the Sauce

• 1 Jar Rao’s white grape juice Sauce
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to explore these variation ideas to suit your taste or dietary needs:

• Add some greens: Mix in some sautéed spinach or kale with the filling for added nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Try using goat cheese for a tangy twist or swap in a dairy-free alternative if needed.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of heat.
• Experiment with herbs: Instead of sage, use thyme or basil for different aromatic flavors.

How to Make Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until they are firm (al dente). This is crucial because we want them to hold their shape when we fill them later. Drain the noodles and transfer them to a large baking sheet. A drizzle of olive oil helps prevent them from sticking together as they cool.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

While your shells are cooling, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This ensures that your dish will bake evenly when it’s time.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of pumpkin puree, grated parmesan, egg, nutmeg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh sage. Mixing these ingredients until smooth creates that delightful filling that makes these shells so special.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In another bowl, mix together the jarred sauce with the remaining pumpkin puree and heavy cream. This step is essential because it adds richness and depth to our dish.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Spread about 3/4 of your sauce mixture across the bottom of a large 9×13 baking dish. Now it’s time for some fun! Using a spoon, fill each cooled shell with approximately 2 tablespoons of that creamy pumpkin-ricotta filling before placing them filling side up onto the sauce.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish tightly with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes; this allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Add Cheese & Finish Baking

After half an hour has passed, remove the foil and sprinkle each shell generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. Pop it back into the oven uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until everything is bubbling hot and golden brown.

Step 8: Enjoy!

For an extra touch, feel free to place your dish under the broiler for just a few seconds—keep an eye on it—to achieve that perfect golden crust on top! Serve hot and enjoy this comforting masterpiece with friends or family.

Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells is easier than you think! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Cook shells al dente – Cooking the pasta shells until they are firm ensures they can hold the filling without falling apart, making for a beautifully presented dish.
• Use fresh sage – Fresh herbs elevate flavors significantly. The aroma and taste of fresh sage adds a delightful earthiness that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
• Don’t skip the cream – Adding cream to your sauce creates a richer and creamier texture, enhancing the overall flavor of your stuffed shells.
• Let them rest before serving – Allowing the dish to sit for about 5 minutes after baking helps the filling set slightly, making it easier to serve without spilling.
• Experiment with cheeses – Feel free to mix different types of cheese such as ricotta, mozzarella, or even goat cheese for added depth and unique flavor profiles.

How to Serve Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Serving Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells can be as fun as making them! Presenting this dish beautifully will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Freshly grated parmesan – Sprinkle some on top just before serving for an extra cheesy touch that enhances flavor.
• Chopped fresh herbs – Parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish visually and in taste.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread – The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread makes for a delightful pairing with the creamy stuffed shells, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad – A simple salad with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the stuffed shells with its refreshing crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil bring out natural sweetness that complements the pumpkin filling beautifully.
• Steamed Broccoli – This classic side not only adds a burst of color but also provides a nutritious element that rounds out your meal wonderfully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience featuring these delightful Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious stuffed shells.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Prepare the stuffed shells but do not bake them.
• Place filled shells in a single layer in a baking dish and cover tightly with plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• If reheating from frozen, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
• Cover with foil while reheating to prevent drying out, then uncover for the last few minutes to melt any cheese on top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells that might help you along your cooking journey!

Can I use different types of cheese in Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or mix different cheeses like cottage cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option.

How do I make Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells vegetarian-friendly?

This recipe is already vegetarian! The creamy ricotta combined with pumpkin brings a delightful texture and flavor without any meat.

Can I prepare Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to bake them.

What should I serve with Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells?

These shells pair beautifully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells as much as I do! They are warm, comforting, and bursting with seasonal flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to get creative with this recipe—add your favorite herbs or spices! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to savor every cheesy bite!