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As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and the air fills with the warm scent of spices, there’s no better time to indulge in comforting, hearty dishes that celebrate the season. Among these, Pumpkin Paradise Stuffed Shells stands out as a unique and delicious recipe that beautifully marries the flavors of autumn with the satisfying nature of stuffed pasta. This dish is not only visually appealing with its bright orange filling but also offers a delightful combination of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors that are reminiscent of fall’s bounty.

Pumpkin Stuffed Shells with Ricotta

Discover the flavors of fall with Pumpkin Paradise Stuffed Shells, a delightful recipe that brings the essence of autumn into your kitchen. These jumbo pasta shells are filled with a creamy pumpkin mixture, perfectly balanced by ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. Enjoy the warm spices of sage and nutmeg as they meld beautifully in this comforting dish. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe will impress everyone at your table. Dive into the step-by-step guide to create this seasonal delight and celebrate the bounty of autumn!

Ingredients
  

20 jumbo pasta shells

1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or freshly made)

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 garlic clove, minced

1 teaspoon dried sage

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried sage, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and smooth.

      Fill the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the pumpkin and cheese mixture. Place them in a baking dish lined with a bit of marinara sauce to prevent sticking.

        Assemble the Dish: Once all the shells are filled and placed in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle any leftover mozzarella cheese on top.

          Bake the Stuffed Shells: Drizzle olive oil over the dish and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

            Garnish and Serve: Remove the stuffed shells from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delightful pumpkin stuffed shells!

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4