Oh, let me tell you about the comfort of turkey and spinach stuffed shells! There’s something magical about digging into a plate of these cheesy, hearty pasta shells, filled with a delightful blend of turkey and fresh spinach. It’s a dish that warms the heart and delights the taste buds, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. I love making this recipe for my loved ones, especially when we all need a little comfort food. The best part? It’s simple to whip up, so you can focus on what truly matters—spending time together. Trust me, once you taste these stuffed shells, they’ll become a cherished family favorite!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to make the best turkey and spinach stuffed shells:
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup packed ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients come together to create a delicious filling that’s bursting with flavor! Make sure to get good quality cheese, as it really makes a difference in the creaminess of each bite. Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Getting ready to make these turkey and spinach stuffed shells is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting, delicious meal in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your shells bake perfectly.
- Next, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Make sure they’re al dente; you want them firm enough to hold the filling. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat. Stir it around until it’s browned and no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. It’s so satisfying to see it transform!
- Now, add the chopped spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the skillet. Cook everything together until the spinach is wilted, which takes about 2-3 minutes. The aroma is heavenly!
- In a large bowl, combine the turkey mixture with the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Mix it all together until well-blended. This filling is creamy and packed with flavor!
- Time to stuff those shells! Carefully spoon the turkey filling into each shell, making sure they’re generously filled.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over them and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
And just like that, you’ve created a comforting dinner that’s sure to impress! Serve it warm and enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me just say, you’re going to adore these turkey and spinach stuffed shells for so many reasons! They’re not just delicious; they also check off so many boxes for a great family meal. Here’s why this recipe is a winner:
- Quick and Easy: You can whip these up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of turkey, spinach, and cheesy goodness creates a delightful flavor explosion in every bite!
- Healthy Twist: Packed with protein and greens, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional pasta dishes.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love cheesy pasta, and they’ll never know they’re eating something nutritious!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare them in advance and just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
- Comfort Food: There’s something so comforting about a warm, cheesy dish that brings everyone together.
Trust me, once you try these stuffed shells, they’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation! They’re just that good!
Tips for Success
To make your turkey and spinach stuffed shells turn out perfectly every time, I’ve got some handy tips to share! I’ve learned a few tricks along the way that really make a difference. Here’s what you need to know:
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: When boiling the jumbo shells, cook them just until they’re al dente. This way, they won’t get mushy when you bake them. Trust me, no one wants a soggy shell!
- Prevent Sticking: After draining the pasta, toss the shells with a little olive oil. This simple step helps keep them from sticking together while you prepare the filling.
- Mix the Filling Well: Make sure to thoroughly combine the turkey mixture with the cheeses and egg. This ensures every bite is speckled with flavor and creamy goodness.
- Adjust Seasonings: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Taste your filling before stuffing the shells; it should be well-seasoned to shine through the marinara sauce.
- Use Different Cheeses: Feel free to mix up the cheese! Adding a bit of feta or goat cheese can give your filling an exciting twist.
- Let it Rest: After baking, let the dish rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set up nicely and makes it easier to serve.
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to making turkey and spinach stuffed shells that are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! Storing your turkey and spinach stuffed shells is super easy, and with a few simple steps, you can enjoy them again without losing any of that delicious flavor or texture.
To store, just make sure to let the leftover stuffed shells cool completely. Then, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to save them for a later date, these shells freeze beautifully! Just wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your stuffed shells again, here’s how to reheat them:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying out, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
- Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, pop a shell on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Just be careful, as microwaving can sometimes make them a bit chewy if you overdo it!
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor the deliciousness of your turkey and spinach stuffed shells time and time again. Enjoy every mouthwatering bite!
Nutritional Information
Here’s what you can expect in terms of nutrition from each scrumptious turkey and spinach stuffed shell. Keep in mind, these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re indulging in:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
These stuffed shells pack a punch of flavor while also being satisfying and nourishing. With a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, they make for a delightful meal that keeps you feeling full without the guilt. Perfect for those cozy family dinners or a comforting weeknight treat!
FAQ Section
I love sharing this recipe, and I often get questions about turkey and spinach stuffed shells! Here are some common ones along with my answers to help you out:
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or even lean beef works wonderfully in this recipe. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if needed to ensure it’s cooked through.
Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just prepare everything as directed, but instead of baking, cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for up to a day. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since they’ll be chilled.
Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Definitely! They freeze beautifully! Just prepare them, let them cool, and wrap each shell tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as usual.
What can I serve with these stuffed shells?
I love pairing them with a fresh green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. You could also serve them with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping—yum!
How do I know when the stuffed shells are done?
You’ll know they’re ready when the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown, and everything is heated through. The aroma in your kitchen will be a huge clue, too!
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need tips. I’m always here to help you make the best turkey and spinach stuffed shells possible!
Call to Action
I hope you enjoy making and savoring these turkey and spinach stuffed shells as much as I do! If you try the recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Please leave a comment below and let me know your thoughts or any tweaks you made. Your feedback not only makes my day, but it also helps others in our cooking community!
And hey, if you loved this recipe, don’t forget to rate it! Sharing is caring, so if you think your friends and family would enjoy it too, spread the word on social media. Tag me in your photos—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations! Happy cooking!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole!
Print
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells: 7 Comforting Secrets
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious stuffed pasta shells filled with turkey and spinach.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook ground turkey over medium heat until browned.
- Add chopped spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until spinach is wilted.
- In a bowl, mix turkey mixture, ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the turkey mixture.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce in a baking dish.
- Place stuffed shells in the dish and top with remaining marinara sauce and cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey with chicken or beef.
- Use fresh or frozen spinach as per availability.
- Adjust cheese quantities based on preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed shell
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: turkey and spinach stuffed shells
