Go Back
+ servings
Irresistible Stuffed Shells With Pumpkin Cream Sauce

Irresistible Stuffed Shells With Pumpkin Cream Sauce Bliss

Irresistible Stuffed Shells With Pumpkin Cream Sauce is a heartwarming meal celebrating fall's flavors with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and pumpkin sauce.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Shells
  • 12 pieces Jumbo Shells Large pasta shells that hold the filling; can use manicotti if shells are unavailable.
For the Cheese Filling
  • 15 ounces Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese Base for the filling, providing creaminess; cottage cheese can be used for a lighter option.
  • 8 ounces Whole Milk Mozzarella Cheese Adds gooey texture to each bite; switching to cheddar can give a sharper flavor.
  • ¾ cup Parmigiano Reggiano, Grated Adds a rich, nutty flavor; Pecorino Romano is a great substitute for a tangier note.
For the Pumpkin Cream Sauce
  • 1 cup Pumpkin Puree The creamy base for the sauce, adding earthy flavor; use canned or homemade puree for convenience.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Used for sautéing garlic and enriching the sauce.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, Minced Provides essential aroma and flavor, paving the way for a delightful sauce.
  • ¼ teaspoon Nutmeg Adds warmth and complements the pumpkin perfectly.
  • ½ cup Half and Half Creates a creamy consistency in the sauce; milk or heavy cream can also work for varying richness.
For the Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Rosemary, Minced Enhances the flavor with its aromatic notes; thyme or sage can be wonderful substitutes.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for enhancing flavors and customizable to your taste preferences.
  • ½ teaspoon Pepper Essential for enhancing flavors and customizable to your taste preferences.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Sauté Pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Dish
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water over high heat. Once boiling, carefully add the jumbo shells and cook for 8–10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally.
  2. In a spacious sauté pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 2–3 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden.
  3. Stir in a generous pinch of nutmeg, followed by pumpkin puree and half and half. Add ¾ cup of grated Parmigiano and minced rosemary, then season with salt and pepper, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  4. In a mixing bowl, blend together the whole milk ricotta, whole milk mozzarella, and the remaining Parmigiano. Toss in minced rosemary, a touch of nutmeg, and sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Carefully take each cooled shell and fill it with the cheesy mixture, using a small spoon or piping bag for easier filling.
  6. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while the stuffed shells rest in the sauce. Once heated, cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  7. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the top to bubble and turn golden.
  8. When baking time is complete, let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, use fresh herbs and avoid overcooking the shells. You can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!