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Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Creamy Ricotta Stuffed Shells: A Cozy Fall Comfort Food

Indulge in creamy ricotta stuffed shells, a perfect fall dish filled with pumpkin goodness.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells Or manicotti/cannelloni if unavailable.
  • 1 cup Pumpkin Puree Homemade for fresher taste.
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese can be used as a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Can use provolone or sharp white cheddar for flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Optional but enhances flavor.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Or fresh minced garlic.
  • 1 tsp Dried Sage Fresh sage or thyme can be used.
  • 1/4 tsp Ground Nutmeg Enhances the cozy vibes.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For Assembly and Baking
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Store-bought or homemade.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Adds richness to the dish.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • baking dish
  • Colander
  • spatula
  • Spoon
  • Piping Bag

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Boil salted water in a large pot, add jumbo pasta shells, and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and cool.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, ricotta, ½ cup mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, sage, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.
  4. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  5. Stuff each cooked shell with pumpkin filling and place in the baking dish opening-side up.
  6. Pour remaining marinara sauce over filled shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
  7. Drizzle with olive oil, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes.
  8. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally garnish with fresh herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat at 350°F covered with foil, adding marinara to keep moist.

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