Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells: A Comforting Delight

Name: Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 1 cup canned pumpkin puree; 1 cup smoked Gouda cheese, shredded; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup spinach, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups creamy Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Posted on October 8, 2025

There’s something undeniably cozy about a plate of Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells fresh from the oven. Imagine golden pasta shells cradling a creamy, dreamy filling of pumpkin and gooey Gouda, topped with bubbling cheese that’s just begging for a fork dive. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is enough to make even the most dedicated salad enthusiast rethink their life choices.

These stuffed shells aren’t just a meal; they’re a hug in food form. I first whipped up this dish during one particularly chilly October evening when I needed a little comfort after an exhausting day. As the cheese melted and mingled with the sweet pumpkin, I realized this was going to be my new go-to cozy meal. Perfect for family dinners or those nights when you just want to snuggle on the couch with something delicious, these shells promise to warm your soul!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells are not only easy to prepare, but they also deliver an explosion of flavor that will leave you craving more
Their visual appeal makes them ideal for special occasions or casual weeknight dinners, impressing anyone lucky enough to dig in
You can easily adapt the recipe with other cheeses or spices based on your taste preferences, ensuring it never gets old!

Ingredients for Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Jumbo Pasta Shells: These large shells are perfect for stuffing and hold up beautifully during cooking.
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Opt for pure pumpkin puree without additives for the best flavor and texture.
Gouda Cheese: Choose smoked Gouda for a unique depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
Ricotta Cheese: This adds creaminess and balances the flavors beautifully.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan brings a savory kick to the dish.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition while complementing the creamy filling.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor profile and aroma.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs elevates the overall taste experience.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to bring out all those lovely flavors in your filling.

For the Sauce:

Creamy Alfredo Sauce: Store-bought or homemade, this creamy sauce provides a luscious base for your stuffed shells.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells

How to Make Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells

Prepare Your Pasta: Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Make The Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine canned pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, shredded Gouda, minced garlic, chopped spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

Stuff The Shells: Carefully spoon the pumpkin filling into each pasta shell. Don’t be shy; pack them in there like they’re going to war! Place each filled shell upright in a baking dish covered with half of your Alfredo sauce.

Prepare For Baking: Once all shells are stuffed and arranged snugly in your dish, drizzle remaining Alfredo sauce over them. Sprinkle additional shredded Gouda and Parmesan on top. Trust me; you want that cheesy crust!

Bake To Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let those beauties bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell divine!

Serve And Enjoy: Once baked, remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired—because presentation matters too!

There you have it—Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells that are not only simple but bursting with flavors that evoke comfort and joy! Enjoy every scrumptious bite as you savor this delightful dish that’s perfect any time of year but especially when autumn leaves start falling!

You Must Know

Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells are not just a dish; they’re an experience, bringing warmth and comfort to your table
The creamy gouda combined with sweet pumpkin creates a flavor explosion that’s perfect for any occasion
Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven while you cook the pasta shells until al dente. Meanwhile, mix the pumpkin and gouda filling in a bowl. Once the shells are ready, stuff them with the mixture before placing them in a baking dish and covering with sauce.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out gouda for mozzarella if you’re in a cheese mood! You can also add spinach, nutmeg, or even crispy bacon bits for that extra oomph. Make it your own masterpiece!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh pasta shells instead of dried ones for a more tender bite
Don’t overstuff the shells; they should be filled but not bursting at the seams
For a crispy top, broil for a few minutes after baking to achieve that golden finish

There was that one chilly autumn evening when I made Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells for my friends. As we sat around the table, laughter filled the air alongside cozy aromas, and I knew this dish had stolen their hearts—and stomachs!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells?

To prepare Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells, you’ll need large pasta shells, pumpkin puree, creamy Gouda cheese, ricotta cheese, garlic, onion, and a blend of spices like nutmeg and sage. Additionally, you should have marinara sauce and grated Parmesan cheese for topping. Each ingredient contributes to the rich flavors and comforting texture of this dish. Fresh herbs can also enhance the taste if you prefer a pop of freshness.

How long does it take to make Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells?

Preparing Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells typically takes about 20 minutes for prep and an additional 30 to 40 minutes for baking. Overall, you can expect to spend around an hour in total from start to finish. This timeline allows enough time to cook the pasta shells al dente, mix the filling thoroughly, and let the dish bake until golden brown and bubbly. It’s a perfect recipe for a cozy family dinner.

Can I make Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can easily make Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells ahead of time. Prepare the stuffed shells up to the baking step and store them in the refrigerator covered with foil. They can stay fresh for up to two days before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply remove them from the fridge and bake as directed. This makes it convenient for meal prepping or entertaining guests without last-minute stress.

What can I serve with Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells?

Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells pair beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette or roasted vegetables for added nutrition. You might also consider serving garlic bread on the side to soak up any leftover sauce. A glass of white wine or warm apple cider complements this dish nicely and enhances its comforting flavors. These pairings create a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.

Conclusion for Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells :

Cozy Pumpkin & Gouda Stuffed Shells offer a delightful blend of flavors that warms your heart and satisfies your appetite. With simple ingredients like pumpkin puree and creamy Gouda cheese, this dish is easy to prepare yet feels special enough for any occasion. You can make it ahead of time or serve it fresh out of the oven; either way, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this comforting meal as part of your autumn cooking repertoire!