Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the cozy flavors of fall with these creamy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells. This comforting dish features large pasta shells filled with a rich pumpkin and gouda cheese mixture, baked in a savory sauce that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Perfect for family dinners or a festive gathering, these stuffed shells are a delicious twist on traditional pasta recipes.
The Perfect Fall Comfort Food
As the leaves change color and the air gets crisper, comfort food takes center stage in many kitchens. Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells are a delightful way to embrace the season, combining the rich flavors of pumpkin with the creamy notes of gouda cheese. This dish not only warms your soul but also brings a festive cheer to your dining table, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Unlike traditional stuffed pasta, the combination of pumpkin and gouda creates a unique flavor profile that is both savory and slightly sweet. The addition of ricotta and Parmesan cheeses enhances the creaminess, providing a luxurious texture that elevates each bite. With this dish, you won't just satisfy your hunger; you'll indulge in an experience that celebrates the essence of fall.
Ideal for Any Occasion
Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells are versatile enough to suit any occasion, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant holiday feast. Their beautiful presentation and mouthwatering aroma are sure to impress your guests, making them perfect for entertaining. Additionally, this recipe can easily be doubled to feed a crowd, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied.
For those seeking a vegetarian dish, these stuffed shells deliver on flavor and nutrition without the need for meat. By incorporating seasonal ingredients like pumpkin, you not only grab attention but also make a healthier choice. This makes them a fantastic option for those who want to eat lighter while still enjoying substantial comfort food.
Easy to Make, Fun to Customize
One of the many advantages of Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells is their ease of preparation. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create a stunning dish that tastes gourmet. The added bonus is the fun of crafting your own stuffed shells. Involve your kids or friends in the preparation process, making it a delightful cooking experience.
Moreover, this recipe is easily customizable to suit your personal preferences. Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or cinnamon to the filling for an extra layer of warmth, or replace gouda with your preferred cheese if you're looking to experiment. This adaptability not only allows you to create a dish that matches your taste but also keeps dinner exciting every time you make it.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Shells
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup gouda cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, gouda cheese, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
Stuff the Shells
Spoon the pumpkin and cheese mixture into each cooked pasta shell, making sure to fill them generously.
Prepare the Sauce
In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, stirring well until heated through.
Assemble and Bake
Spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top and cover them with the remaining sauce. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until heated and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience with Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells, consider serving them with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. Adding a slice of crusty garlic bread can also enhance the meal and help soak up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Pairing this dish with a light white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, can complement the creamy flavors beautifully. The acidity in the wine will balance the richness of the gouda and pumpkin, making for a well-rounded dining experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their delicious taste and texture, be sure to separate the sauce if possible. Reheating is simple; just place the shells in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, usually about 15-20 minutes.
For longer storage, consider freezing the stuffed shells before baking. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you're ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.
Nutritional Benefits
Pumpkin is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It is a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants that promote eye health and boost your immune system. Incorporating pumpkin into your meals during fall is a wonderful way to enjoy the benefits of this seasonal superfood.
The combination of cheeses in this recipe contributes to a good amount of protein and calcium, making these stuffed shells a filling option. By using ricotta cheese and adding spices, you are also enhancing the overall nutritional profile without compromising on taste, creating a well-balanced meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate them. Just adjust the baking time accordingly if baking from cold.
→ What can I serve with Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells?
A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish to complete the meal.
Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells
Savor the cozy flavors of fall with these creamy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells. This comforting dish features large pasta shells filled with a rich pumpkin and gouda cheese mixture, baked in a savory sauce that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Perfect for family dinners or a festive gathering, these stuffed shells are a delicious twist on traditional pasta recipes.
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Shells
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup gouda cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, gouda cheese, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
Spoon the pumpkin and cheese mixture into each cooked pasta shell, making sure to fill them generously.
In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, stirring well until heated through.
Spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top and cover them with the remaining sauce. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until heated and bubbly.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 48g