Butternut Squash Stuffed Shells (Print Version)

Tender pasta shells stuffed with butternut squash, ricotta, and cheese blend, baked in marinara and garnished with fresh basil.

# Ingredients:

01 - 12 jumbo pasta shells
02 - 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
03 - 1 cup ricotta cheese
04 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
05 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 - Salt and pepper to taste
09 - 2 cups marinara sauce
10 - Fresh basil for garnish

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
02 - Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
03 - In a pot, steam or boil the butternut squash until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and mash.
04 - In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed butternut squash, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
05 - Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the butternut squash mixture.
06 - Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish and top with the remaining marinara sauce and the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
07 - Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
08 - Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Feel free to add spinach or other vegetables to the filling for extra nutrition.
02 - This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
03 - For a vegan version, substitute ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives.