Irresistibly Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells

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Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells are the ultimate fall comfort food — warm, cheesy, and filled with savory pumpkin flavor. This dish captures the essence of autumn, making it an ideal choice for cozy dinners or festive gatherings. Each shell is generously stuffed with a rich mixture of creamy pumpkin ricotta filling, paired perfectly with herbs and spices. The result is a delightful and satisfying meal that promises to warm your heart and home.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed

This savory pumpkin ricotta dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with it:

Rich and creamy texture from the creamy pumpkin ricotta filling.
Perfectly seasoned with sage and thyme, enhancing the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
Easy to prepare, making it a great choice for weeknight meals.
Can be made ahead for quick reheating, ideal for busy evenings.
Vegetarian-friendly, fitting into a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor.
Pairs well with a simple salad, making it a complete meal.

Ingredients for Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed

Gather these items:

16 jumbo pasta shells
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh sage (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
½ cup grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 cup whole milk
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese, for topping

How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Step-by-Step

Step 1: Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cook jumbo pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté garlic, sage, and thyme for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, ricotta, parmesan, sautéed herbs, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Spoon the pumpkin ricotta mixture into each cooked shell.
Step 6: Arrange filled shells in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour milk evenly around the shells.
Step 7: Sprinkle mozzarella and extra parmesan on top.
Step 8: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Step 9: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed

Keep these in mind:

For a deeper flavor, use fresh herbs instead of dried.
Ensure the pasta shells are cooked al dente to hold the filling well.
Experiment with different cheeses for topping for extra flavor.

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Best Ways to Serve Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed

This comforting dish can be served in various ways:

Accompany it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Serve it with a light tomato sauce drizzled over the top.
Pair it with garlic bread for a delightful combination.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven until warmed through. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this healthy pumpkin ricotta dish throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed?

The secret lies in balancing the flavors of the pumpkin and ricotta cheese. Using fresh herbs enhances the dish and creates a more vibrant filling.

Can I make Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance, cover them, and refrigerate. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure your pasta shells are not overcooked, which can lead to tearing. Additionally, be careful not to overfill the shells.

Variations of Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Incorporate spinach for added nutrients in your pumpkin ricotta cheese stuffing.
Add cooked sausage or ground meat for a heartier meal.
Try different types of cheese, like goat cheese, for a unique twist.

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For more delicious pumpkin recipes, check out Pumpkin Sage Pasta or Pumpkin Muffins. You can also explore Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet for a savory twist.