Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells for Cozy Fall Meals

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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 brings the essence of autumn to your table with rich ricotta filling and golden baked perfection. Ideal for cozy dinners, festive gatherings, or as a make-ahead meal, these shells will surely become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed

This Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed dish is not just delicious but also offers numerous benefits:

Rich in flavor and texture with a delightful pumpkin ricotta filling.
Perfect for cozy evenings or holiday gatherings.
Easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Vegetarian-friendly, catering to a variety of dietary preferences.
Can be made ahead for convenient meal prep.
Versatile — enjoy it as a main dish or a savory appetizer.

This recipe is an excellent way to use pumpkin, a nutritious and versatile ingredient. Enjoy a warm, comforting meal that resonates with the flavors of fall!

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.

Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells for Cozy Fall Meals - Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed

Keep these in mind:

These shells are perfect for make-ahead meals; prepare them a day in advance and bake before serving.
Adjust herbs to your taste preference; try adding rosemary or thyme for a different flavor.
You can substitute other cheeses if desired, such as feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed

This savory pumpkin ricotta dish can be served in various delightful ways:

Pair with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Serve with crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
Top with a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed

To store leftovers, cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This dish is also great for meal prep; prepare and store in the fridge for an easy weeknight dinner option.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed

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

The secret lies in using high-quality ricotta cheese and ensuring that your pumpkin filling is well-seasoned. Don’t forget to let the dish rest after baking for the best texture!

Can I make Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it before serving for fresh and warm flavors.

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

Avoid overcooking the pasta shells; cook them just until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Also, ensure your filling is creamy but not too watery.

Variations of Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed You Can Try

Here are some creative variations:

Try using acorn squash instead of pasta shells for a healthy pumpkin ricotta dish.
Make pumpkin and ricotta cheese crepes for a unique twist on this classic flavor.
For a hearty option, serve the pumpkin ricotta filling in roasted bell peppers.

Whichever variation you choose, the flavors are sure to delight!

Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells for Cozy Fall Meals - Creamy Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed - additional detail

For more delicious pumpkin recipes, check out Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting or Pumpkin Cheesecake Heaven Bars. If you’re looking for a hearty soup, try Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Delight for a comforting meal.