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Pumpkin Spinach Stuffed Shells

Comforting Pumpkin Spinach Stuffed Shells for Cozy Nights

Enjoy the comforting Pumpkin Spinach Stuffed Shells, a delightful vegetarian dish perfect for cozy nights.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Shells
  • 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells Undercook slightly to prevent tearing.
For the Filling
  • 1 cup Pumpkin Purée Avoid using pie filling.
  • 1 cup Ricotta Cheese
  • 2 cups Fresh Spinach Well-drained if using frozen.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella
  • 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg Just a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
For the Creamy Sage Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Brown for enhanced flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Flour (or 1:1 GF flour)
  • 2 cups Milk Use whole, low-fat, or non-dairy alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Best when sprinkled on top.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Chopped Sage Fresh preferred.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Saucepan
  • 9x13-inch baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them for 2 minutes less than the package instructions indicate. Drain and rinse under cold water, then coat lightly with olive oil.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin purée, ricotta cheese, well-drained spinach, and shredded mozzarella. Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper, mixing until well integrated. Let filling sit for 10 minutes to drain any excess moisture.
  3. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat until bubbly. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute. Gradually pour in milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Stir in Parmesan, sage, salt, and pepper, then remove from heat.
  4. Spread half of the creamy sage sauce in a baking dish. Fill each pasta shell with the pumpkin filling, placing snugly in the dish. Pour remaining sauce over the shells.
  5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until golden. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, make sure to drain the spinach well. You can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.

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