Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells: A Hearty and Wholesome Italian Delight 🍝🦃🌿

1. Introduction

Craving a comforting and wholesome Italian dish? Look no further than this delicious turkey spinach stuffed shells recipe! This recipe combines the comforting flavors of classic stuffed pasta shells with lean ground turkey and nutrient-rich spinach, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, these turkey stuffed shells are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Imagine the delightful blend of savory turkey, fresh spinach, and creamy cheese, all nestled within perfectly cooked pasta shells and smothered in a rich marinara sauce – it’s an unforgettable experience! This spinach stuffed shells variation offers a lighter, healthier twist on traditional recipes without compromising on flavor. In fact, you might even find it *more* flavorful! If you are looking for other healty dinner recipes, you can browse here !

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you and your loved ones wanting more. These shells are not just delicious; they’re also relatively simple to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. If you are looking for an even quicker meal, you should try our Chicken Caesar Wrap !

Before we get started, I want to mention that this recipe is inspired by this wonderful recipe, with a few tweaks and personal touches to make it even more delicious and easy to follow. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to create this delectable dish!

2. Ingredients Needed

Before you begin, make sure you have all of your ingredients prepped and ready to go. This makes the entire cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

• 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 (24 oz) jars marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Speaking of delicious ingredients, if you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, you might also enjoy our Mediterranean Chickpea Salad. It’s a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly complements the richness of these stuffed shells.

3. Equipment Required

Having the right equipment on hand can make all the difference in the ease and success of your cooking. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

• Large pot
• Colander
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• 9×13 inch baking dish

4. Preparation Instructions

Before you start cooking, make sure to prepare all the ingredients. Thaw the spinach and squeeze out any excess water – this is crucial to prevent a soggy filling. Gather all measuring tools and ensure your baking dish is ready. This will help streamline the cooking process and make it more efficient.

I find that having everything prepped makes cooking less stressful and more fun. It’s like having your own cooking show set up! Also, if you want to see other recipes, check out our recipes!

5. Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells.

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt helps to season the pasta from the inside out. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, and it’s the perfect texture – slightly firm and not mushy. Drain the pasta shells and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, brown the ground turkey over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat – this is important for a healthier dish. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Garlic is one of those ingredients that adds so much flavor with very little effort! Stir in the thawed and squeezed dry spinach. Make sure you really squeeze out all the water from the spinach, or your filling will be too watery.

3. Mix the Cheese and Assemble

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey and spinach mixture with ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined. The egg acts as a binder, helping the filling hold together. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

While you’re preheating the oven, take a moment to appreciate the aroma filling your kitchen. It’s a sign of the deliciousness to come! Speaking of deliciousness, have you tried our Quinoa Stuffed Peppers? They’re another great option for a hearty and healthy meal.

Spread one jar of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of the 9×13 inch baking dish. This layer of sauce prevents the shells from sticking and adds flavor. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the turkey spinach and cheese mixture. Be generous with the filling! Arrange the stuffed pasta shells in the baking dish over the marinara sauce.

4. Bake the Stuffed Shells

Pour the remaining jar of marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Make sure all the shells are covered in sauce to prevent them from drying out. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. The mozzarella will melt and create a gooey, cheesy topping. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This helps to keep the moisture in and prevents the cheese from browning too quickly. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the shells are heated through. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!

6. Tips and Tricks

Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you perfect your Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells:

• To prevent the pasta shells from sticking, toss them with a little olive oil after draining.
• Make sure to squeeze out all the excess water from the thawed spinach to prevent a watery filling. I can’t stress this enough!
• You can substitute ground chicken or Italian sausage for ground turkey. Feel free to experiment with different flavors!
• For a richer flavor, use a combination of ricotta and mascarpone cheese. Mascarpone adds a lovely creaminess.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat. If you like a bit of spice, this is a great addition.
• Prepare the turkey spinach stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great option if you’re short on time during the week.

And if you’re looking for another make-ahead dish, be sure to check out our Broccoli Cheddar Quiche. It’s perfect for brunch or a light dinner!

7. Serving Suggestions

Serve the turkey and spinach stuffed shells hot, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. A little extra cheese never hurts! This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a complete Italian feast, consider serving it alongside a classic Caesar salad and some crusty Italian bread for soaking up the delicious marinara sauce.

For a lighter option, you might enjoy serving these shells with our Turkey Lettuce Wraps as an appetizer. It’s a great way to balance the richness of the pasta with something light and refreshing.

8. Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 450-500
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For the most accurate information, calculate based on the specific brands and quantities you use.

9. Conclusion

This turkey spinach stuffed shells recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthier, yet equally satisfying, version of a classic Italian dish. With its combination of lean ground turkey, nutrient-packed spinach, and a medley of delicious cheeses, this stuffed pasta shells recipe is perfect for any occasion. Feel free to adjust based on your prefference by checking our about page fill contact form and tell us your suggestions!

Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special gathering, these turkey stuffed shells are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this wholesome and hearty meal. Happy cooking! And don’t forget to treat yourself with superfood smoothie afterwards!

We hope you enjoy making this recipe! If you do, please leave a comment and let us know how it turned out. We love hearing from our readers and seeing your culinary creations!

Also, if you are looking for quick lunch idea, you can search for you options here. Print