Go Back
+ servings
Pumpkin Spinach Stuffed Shells

Pumpkin Spinach Stuffed Shells for Cozy Autumn Nights

Enjoy a cozy dish of Pumpkin Spinach Stuffed Shells filled with pumpkin, spinach, and ricotta, perfect for autumn nights.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 shells
Course: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 12 pieces jumbo pasta shells Boil just shy of al dente.
  • 1 cup pumpkin purée Use pure pumpkin for best flavor.
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese Use vegan ricotta for dairy-free option.
  • 5 ounces fresh spinach Drain well if using frozen.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg Adds warmth.
  • to taste salt & pepper
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons butter Provides richness.
  • 0.25 cup flour Gluten-free flour can be used.
  • 2 cups milk Use non-dairy alternatives if desired.
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chopped sage Dried sage can be used in less quantity.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • spacious bowl
  • Medium saucepan
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the jumbo pasta shells. Cook for 8–10 minutes, until tender yet firm. Drain and toss with olive oil.
  2. In a bowl, combine pumpkin purée, ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and shredded mozzarella. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes.
  3. Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour and cook until golden. Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened. Stir in Parmesan and sage.
  4. Spread half of the creamy sauce in a baking dish. Fill each shell with the pumpkin mixture, arrange in the dish, and pour remaining sauce over them.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 2shellsCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 18gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 4000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

These stuffed shells can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated. Cooked shells should be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!