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Creamy Pumpkin Gouda Stuffed Shells

Creamy Pumpkin Gouda Stuffed Shells - featured image

A cozy and comforting fall dish featuring creamy pumpkin filling, smoky Gouda cheese, and warm spices, perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

  • Jumbo pasta shells
  • Canned pumpkin puree
  • Gouda cheese (smoked or regular)
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
  • Egg
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Nutmeg
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Heavy cream
  • Butter
  • Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, Gouda cheese (reserve 1/2 cup for topping), Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth and well combined.
  4. Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each shell with the pumpkin mixture. Arrange them in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  5. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the heavy cream and whisk until smooth. Season with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  6. Pour the cream sauce evenly over the stuffed shells in the baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle the reserved Gouda cheese evenly over the top.
  8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
  9. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving.

Notes

[‘Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente shells are easier to stuff and won’t turn mushy after baking.’, ‘Use fresh cheese for better melting and texture.’, ‘Let the shells cool slightly before stuffing to prevent tearing.’, ‘Arrange the shells snugly in the dish to keep them upright while baking.’, ‘Taste the filling before stuffing to adjust seasoning.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin, gouda, stuffed shells, fall recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, family-friendly, vegetarian, pasta