Go Back
creamy spinach pumpkin pasta shells recipe

Creamy Spinach Pumpkin Pasta Shells

Zac A., a passionate food creator, smiling while preparing a fresh homemade dish in a cozy kitchen.Zac A.
A delightful vegetarian dish that combines the seasonal flavors of pumpkin and spinach in a creamy pasta shell.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 Baking Dish 9x13 inch
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large
  • 1 Whisk

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, sauté until fragrant. Stir in pumpkin puree and vegetable broth. Add cream cheese and whisk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Fill each shell with a small amount of spinach, then spoon pumpkin sauce into each shell. Arrange shells in a baking dish.
  • Pour remaining sauce over the shells and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is golden.

Serving

  • Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use fresh spinach for best results. Ensure cream cheese is softened to blend smoothly.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option.
How to Serve: Pair with a light salad or garlic bread.
Storage & Freshness: Best consumed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the dish the day before and bake when ready to serve.
Keyword creamy spinach pasta, fall pasta recipes, Vegetarian Comfort Food