Air Fryer Recipes

Delightful Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Embrace the flavours of autumn with this mouth-watering recipe for pumpkin ricotta stuffed shells, cooked to perfection in an air fryer. This delightful dish brings together the creamy texture of ricotta, the subtle sweetness of pumpkin, and the satisfying bite of pasta shells. It's an uncomplicated yet impressive dish that will leave your guests craving more.

Ingredients

• 200g jumbo pasta shells
• 250g ricotta cheese
• 180g canned pumpkin puree
• 60g grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 600ml tomato passata
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, pumpkin puree, Parmesan cheese, egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
4. Fill each pasta shell with the pumpkin ricotta mixture using a spoon, and place them on a tray.
5. In a saucepan over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then add the tomato passata. Let simmer for about 10 minutes.
6. Pour a layer of the tomato sauce in the bottom of an oven-safe air fryer dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce, then cover with more sauce.
7. Place the dish in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Shells

For the best results, make sure to cook your pasta shells until just al dente, as they will continue to cook slightly in the air fryer. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce. The dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.

Nutritional Information

This recipe is not only delicious but also provides a source of protein and calcium from the ricotta cheese. The pumpkin adds fiber and is rich in vitamins A and C. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, making it a well-balanced option for a hearty meal.

Conclusion

This pumpkin ricotta stuffed shells recipe is a true celebration of autumn flavours. Easy to prepare and perfect for air frying, it offers a comforting meal option any time of the year. Enjoy this delectable creation, and don't forget to share it with your family and friends!