Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells melt in 5 minutes offering a quick comforting meal that satisfies your hunger and warms your soul
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 box (about 12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 ½ cups whole milk ricotta cheese – make sure it’s well drained to avoid watery filling
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage or 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce – use your favorite jarred or homemade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them according to package instructions until al dente (about 9 to 11 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside on a lightly oiled tray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, and sage. Stir until smooth. Season with salt and pepper and taste for balance.
- Assemble the shells: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon pumpkin ricotta mixture into each shell and place them side by side in the dish.
- Add sauce and cheese: Pour remaining marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Drizzle olive oil over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Rest before serving: Let the baked shells rest for 5 minutes to set the filling and cool slightly.
Notes
Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells blend the smooth, mild flavor of ricotta with the subtle sweetness and earthiness of pumpkin, wrapped in tender pasta shells and topped with a sage-infused tomato sauce. This comforting vegetarian dish is perfect for cozy dinners or holiday gatherings.