Introduction
Welcome to my cozy kitchen, where comfort food meets a hint of creativity! Today, I’m excited to share a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish with a seasonal flair: Cheesy Spinach & Pumpkin Spice Stuffed Shells. As the leaves turn and the cool air rolls in, the flavors of pumpkin spice become an irresistible addition to our culinary repertoire.
These stuffed shells combine the creamy, savory goodness of spinach and a medley of cheeses with the warm, fragrant notes of pumpkin spice, making each bite a festive celebration for your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, seeking a comforting family dinner, or just indulging in some self-care, these stuffed shells are sure to satisfy.
Let’s dive into the heart of this dish, where traditional comfort meets the playful spirit of autumn! Grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 20 large jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Extra mozzarella for topping (about 1 cup)
Instructions
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- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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- Prepare the jumbo pasta shells by boiling them as per the package instructions until they reach an al dente texture. Drain and allow to cool.
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- In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped spinach, pumpkin puree, minced garlic, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and black pepper until thoroughly blended.
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- If desired, gently mix in the chopped basil.
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- Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a baking dish.
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- With the help of a teaspoon, carefully fill each pasta shell with the spinach and pumpkin cheese mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish over the marinara sauce.
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- After all the shells are filled and placed, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Generously sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese over the stuffed shells.
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- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven to bake for 25 minutes.
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- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
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- Take it out of the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes, then serve warm and savor!
- Prep Time: 20 min | Total Time: 55 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Jumbo Pasta Shells: These large shells are perfect for stuffing with the delicious filling.
- Fresh Spinach: Provides a vibrant and nutritious component to the filling.
- Ricotta Cheese: Creamy texture that adds richness to the dish.
- Cream Cheese: Enhances the creaminess and flavor of the stuffing.
- Pumpkin Puree: Adds a unique autumn flavor and a hint of sweetness.
- Shredded Cheese: A mix of mozzarella and parmesan for a melty, cheesy topping.
- Garlic: Fresh or minced for aromatic flavor.
- Onion: Diced for depth in the filling.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to bring out warm autumn notes.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning to taste.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables and enhancing flavors.
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your dish bakes evenly and thoroughly.
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Cook the Shells: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside on a parchment-lined tray to cool slightly. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
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Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and cooked spinach (squeezed dry). Add the pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
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Stuff the Shells: Take each cooked shell and carefully spoon the cheesy spinach and pumpkin spice filling into it. Be generous, but be careful not to overfill to prevent spillage during baking.
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Arrange in the Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the stuffed shells seam-side up on top of the sauce. Once all the shells are arranged, spoon any remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring all shells are lightly covered.
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Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese generously over the stuffed shells. For an extra touch of autumn flavor, consider adding an additional sprinkle of pumpkin spice on top.
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Cover with Foil: Loosely cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in while it bakes.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Let it Rest: Once done, take the stuffed shells out of the oven and let them rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes serving easier.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful twist on the classic stuffed shells, enriched with cheesy goodness and seasonal pumpkin spice!
This baking process will yield a delicious dish that combines the rich flavors of cheese and spinach with the warm, comforting notes of pumpkin spice, perfect for a cozy gathering or a family meal.
Serving Suggestions
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Fresh Green Salad: Pair your Cheesy Spinach & Pumpkin Spice Stuffed Shells with a side of mixed greens drizzled with a light balsamic vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the stuffed shells and adds a refreshing crunch.
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Garlic Bread: What’s a pasta dish without some buttery garlic bread? Serve warm, toasted garlic bread on the side for a delightful addition that’s perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.
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Roasted Vegetables: Enhance your meal with a platter of beautifully roasted seasonal vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and zucchini. The caramelization adds depth to the flavors while keeping the meal nutritious.
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Sautéed Kale or Swiss Chard: For an extra dose of greens, sauté some kale or Swiss chard with garlic and olive oil. This not only elevates the health factor but also adds contrasting textures to your plate.
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Cranberry Sauce: A small side of cranberry sauce can provide a delightful tartness that balances out the creamy and savory flavors of the stuffed shells, echoing a festive spirit.
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Drinks Pairing: Consider serving your meal with a glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red such as Pinot Noir. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple cider can also enhance the fall flavors beautifully.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your gathering or personal preference, and enjoy your deliciously unique stuffed shells!
Conclusion
These Cheesy Spinach & Pumpkin Spice Stuffed Shells are a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining the comforting flavors of spinach and cream cheese with the warm, cozy notes of pumpkin spice. This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also brings a sense of nostalgia to the table, perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
As you take the time to prepare these stuffed shells, you’ll enjoy the process of layering flavors and crafting a meal that is both satisfying and unique. The cheesy filling harmonizes beautifully with the subtle sweetness of pumpkin spice, making each bite a comforting experience.
Whether you’re serving this dish for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, it’s sure to impress both family and friends. Don’t forget to pair it with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread to balance the flavors and add some freshness to the meal.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and indulge in this deliciously creative recipe that puts a seasonal spin on a beloved classic. Happy cooking!
