Italian-Style Pumpkin-Stuffed Shells Recipe
Description
A delicious and comforting dish, these Italian-style Pumpkin-Stuffed Shells are perfect for a cozy meal, combining creamy pumpkin with rich parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, all nestled inside tender pasta shells. The dish is baked with a savory spaghetti sauce and topped with melted mozzarella, creating a mouthwatering, cheesy delight. Whether you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian meal or a flavorful side dish, this recipe is sure to please!
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Egg | 1 |
| Solid-pack pumpkin | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/2 cup |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Pasta shells (large) | 36 shells |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 2 cups |
| Spaghetti sauce | 2 cups |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 337.2 kcal |
| Total Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 72.2 mg |
| Sodium | 1319.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 31.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugars | 16.4 g |
| Protein | 17.8 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the baking dish:
Begin by spooning a thin layer of spaghetti sauce into the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking dish. This will prevent the shells from sticking and add extra flavor to the dish. -
-
Prepare the stuffing mixture:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine one beaten egg with the solid-pack pumpkin, grated parmesan cheese, and ground nutmeg. Stir until well combined. The pumpkin will create a smooth, creamy filling, and the nutmeg will add a lovely spice to the mixture. -
Stuff the shells:
Carefully stuff the cooked pasta shells with the pumpkin mixture. Make sure to pack the filling into each shell generously. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in the prepared baking dish with the open side facing down. -
Top with sauce:
Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, making sure each shell is coated with sauce for extra moisture and flavor. -
Bake covered:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30 minutes. The covered baking will allow the shells to steam and soften, absorbing the flavors of the sauce and filling. -
Add mozzarella and bake uncovered:
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the shells. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. -
Serve:
Once the cheese is golden and the sauce is bubbling, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the Italian-style pumpkin-stuffed shells hot and enjoy the rich, savory flavors.
Tips and Variations:
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance, cover them with foil, and refrigerate them until ready to bake. This can help you save time on busy days.
- Add more spices: If you like a little more spice, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper to the pumpkin filling.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can enhance the flavor of this dish. Add them to the filling or sprinkle them on top before serving.
Perfect Pairing Suggestions:
- Serve these pumpkin-stuffed shells with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complete the meal. A glass of crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay, would pair wonderfully with the creamy richness of this dish.
Enjoy this savory, comforting recipe from Love With Recipes for a perfect family meal or special occasion.
