Unique Thanksgiving Recipes That Will Dazzle Your Guests

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food. If you want to impress your guests this year, try adding a unique dish to your holiday table. One great option is Pumpkin Stuffed Shells. This dish is not just a twist on traditional flavors; it combines warmth and comfort into pasta shells for a stunning centerpiece. Let’s dive into why you should make this recipe and how to prepare it!

Why make this recipe

Pumpkin Stuffed Shells are perfect for Thanksgiving because they blend the flavors of fall with the heartiness of pasta. It’s a delicious vegetarian option that can satisfy everyone, even meat lovers. The creamy pumpkin filling is rich and flavorful, making it a unique and festive dish that stands out from the usual turkey and stuffing.

How to prepare Pumpkin Stuffed Shells

Making Pumpkin Stuffed Shells is easy and fun! Here’s how you can create this incredible dish.

Ingredients:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Grated parmesan cheese for topping

Steps:

1. Cook the shells: Begin by boiling the jumbo pasta shells in salted water. Cook them according to the package directions until they are al dente. Drain and set them aside to cool.
2. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, egg, pumpkin spice, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff the shells: Once the shells have cooled, carefully fill each one with the pumpkin mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
4. Assemble in a dish: Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells on top and cover them with the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and some parmesan cheese on top.
5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the shells for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
6. Serve and enjoy: Let it cool slightly before serving.

How to serve Pumpkin Stuffed Shells

Pumpkin Stuffed Shells are best served warm. Garnish each plate with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or more parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Pair it with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to store Pumpkin Stuffed Shells

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Just wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw, then bake as usual.

Tips to make Pumpkin Stuffed Shells perfectly

• Make sure the pasta shells are cooked al dente so they don’t break when you stuff them.
• Adjust the seasoning in the filling to match your taste preferences.
• Feel free to add herbs like basil or oregano in the filling for added freshness.

Variations

You can customize your Pumpkin Stuffed Shells in many ways:

• Add spinach: Mix in some chopped cooked spinach to the filling for extra nutrients.
• Use different cheeses: Try using goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile.
• Meat option: If you want meat, you can add cooked sausage or ground turkey to the filling.

FAQ

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin?
Yes! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, cook and mash it until it’s smooth before adding it to the filling.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

3. What can I serve with stuffed shells?
A simple salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish well.

Now you have everything you need to impress your guests this Thanksgiving with Pumpkin Stuffed Shells. Enjoy your feast!