Butternut Squash Stuffed Shells

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delight your taste buds with these creamy and savory Butternut Squash Stuffed Shells. This comforting dish features large pasta shells generously filled with a velvety butternut squash mixture, ricotta cheese, and a hint of nutmeg, all topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese for a cheesy, baked perfection. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy dinners, it's a delicious vegetarian option that the whole family will love!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-10-23T02:36:36.745Z

This recipe is inspired by the rich flavors of fall vegetables and the comforting feeling of homemade pasta dishes. Butternut squash adds a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the creamy ricotta and the savory marinara.

A Perfect Fall Dish

As the leaves change and the air becomes crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm, comforting dish to celebrate the season. Butternut squash is a quintessential autumn ingredient, embodying the cozy flavors of fall. By incorporating it into stuffed pasta shells, you create a dish that not only tastes amazing but also showcases the produce of the season. This Butternut Squash Stuffed Shells recipe brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table, making it the perfect choice for family gatherings or intimate dinners with friends.

The combination of creamy ricotta and roasted butternut squash provides a deliciously rich filling that melts in your mouth. With a hint of nutmeg adding depth, every bite is a celebration of autumn flavors. This vegetarian dish is satisfying enough to please even the pickiest of eaters, making it an excellent choice for a crowd. You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the company of your guests without the stress of last-minute cooking.

Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. With only a few ingredients and straightforward steps, making Butternut Squash Stuffed Shells is a breeze. This dish is perfect for both novice cooks and kitchen aficionados alike. You can roast the squash while boiling the pasta shells simultaneously, streamlining the cooking process and saving time. Plus, there's something incredibly satisfying about stuffing pasta shells, whether you're an experienced cook or trying it for the first time.

For those looking to save even more time, you can roast the butternut squash in advance. Prepare the filling a day ahead and refrigerate it for easy assembly on the day of your gathering. This makes it an excellent make-ahead option for busy weeknights or festive occasions, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade food with little effort on the day of serving.

Serving Suggestions

Butternut Squash Stuffed Shells are perfect on their own, but you can elevate the meal by adding a fresh salad or some crusty bread on the side. A simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of the stuffed shells, offering a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread, on the other hand, complements the cheesy flavors and adds an extra comfort level to your dinner.

For an enhanced dining experience, consider serving this dish with a glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay or a Sauvignon Blanc. The wine’s acidity can balance the creaminess of the ricotta and the sweetness of the butternut squash, while making your meal feel even more special. With these additions, your Butternut Squash Stuffed Shells will surely impress your guests.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Shells

1 package of large pasta shells
2 cups butternut squash, cubed and roasted
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Mix and match your favorite cheeses for different flavors!

Instructions

Prepare the Butternut Squash

Roast the cubed butternut squash in the oven at 400°F for about 25 minutes or until tender.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the roasted squash, ricotta cheese, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Stuff the Shells

Cook the pasta shells according to packaging instructions. Once cooked, stuff each shell with the butternut squash mixture.

Assemble and Bake

Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, place the stuffed shells on top, and cover with the remaining marinara. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.

Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, don't worry—Butternut Squash Stuffed Shells store well! Allow the dish to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, they can last for about three to four days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven until heated through, or microwave individual servings for convenience.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stuffed shells. Prepare the dish according to the recipe, but don’t bake it. Instead, cover it and freeze it before the baking step. When ready, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as instructed. This makes the dish not only a fantastic option for meal prep but also a great go-to for unexpected guests.

Nutritional Benefits

In addition to being delicious, Butternut Squash is packed with nutritional benefits. It's a great source of vitamins A and C, promoting healthy skin and immune function. The fiber from the squash, along with the pasta, contributes to a well-balanced meal, helping you feel full and satisfied. Ricotta cheese adds protein, making this dish a wholesome choice for families and vegetarians alike.

By enjoying these stuffed shells, you're not just treating your taste buds but also nourishing your body. This recipe strikes a wonderful balance between flavor and health, allowing you to indulge without guilt. Make Butternut Squash Stuffed Shells a regular dish in your kitchen, and you'll enjoy both the comfort of home-cooked meals and the benefits of healthy eating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta shells.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed shells?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked stuffed shells and bake them later.