Ingredients
Scale
- 1 box (12 oz) Jumbo pasta shells
- 1 can (15 oz) Pumpkin puree (ensure it is not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 cups Fresh baby spinach, chopped
- 15 oz Ricotta cheese
- 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup Grated parmesan cheese
- 1 Large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/2 small Onion, finely diced
- 1/2 tsp Ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp Dried sage (or 1 tbsp fresh chopped sage)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups Marinara sauce or Bechamel sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil the Pasta Shells Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo shells and cook according to the package directions, but remove them about 2 minutes early so they are slightly firm (al dente). Drain and rinse with cool water to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Spinach Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent. Add the minced garlic and chopped spinach, sautéing until the spinach is fully wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Step 3: Prepare the Cheese and Pumpkin Base In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and the beaten egg. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Step 4: Season the Filling Add the ground nutmeg, sage, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Fold in the sautéed spinach, onions, and garlic. Stir gently to ensure the spinach is evenly distributed throughout the pumpkin filling.
- Step 5: Stuff the Shells Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread about 1/2 cup of your chosen sauce across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Take a cooked shell and generously fill it with the pumpkin mixture using a spoon. Place the stuffed shell into the baking dish.
- Step 6: Top and Bake Once all shells are filled and arranged in the dish, pour the remaining sauce over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian