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Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells for Cozy Fall Nights

Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells are the perfect comfort food for cozy fall nights, blending rich pumpkin and creamy ricotta for a delightful twist.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 stuffed shells
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Shells
  • 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells Cook until al dente.
For the Filling
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Or cottage cheese for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Pumpkin Puree Canned or homemade.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Fresh Parmesan Cheese Can substitute with Pecorino Romano.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg Cinnamon can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Sage Dried sage can be substituted.
For the Sauce
  • 24 oz Rao's Vodka Sauce Any marinara sauce will also work.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Substitute whole milk for a lighter sauce.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Provolone cheese can be used as a substitute.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • 9x13 baking dish

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain the shells and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside to cool.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, pumpkin puree, grated Parmesan, egg, nutmeg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh sage. Mix until smooth.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together Rao's Vodka Sauce, remaining pumpkin puree, and heavy cream until blended.
  5. Spread 3/4 of the sauce mixture in a 9x13 baking dish. Fill each pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the pumpkin-ricotta mixture. Arrange filled shells in a single layer.
  6. Pour remaining sauce over the top of the shells and cover tightly with foil.
  7. Bake covered for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
  8. For extra browning, switch the oven to broil for a few seconds until the cheese is lightly browned and bubbly.
  9. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with a fresh salad or garlic bread.

Nutrition

Serving: 1stuffed shellCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Use olive oil on cooked pasta shells to keep them from sticking together. Allow shells to cool before filling. Prepare a day ahead and store without sauce. Reserve mozzarella for an extra sprinkle on top before broiling.

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