Turkey Spinach Stuffed Shells Savory and Satisfying Dish

Are you ready to dive into a filling dish that’s both delicious and easy to make? Turkey Spinach Stuffed Shells are the perfect blend of tender pasta, savory turkey, and fresh spinach. This dish is great for family dinners or meal prep. I’ll guide you through every step, ensuring your stuffed shells come out perfect every time. Let’s get cooking and make mealtime memorable!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 20 jumbo pasta shells

– 1 pound ground turkey

– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

Dairy and Seasoning

– 1 cup ricotta cheese

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Additional Ingredients

– 1 egg, beaten

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 cups marinara sauce

When I make Turkey Spinach Stuffed Shells, I love using fresh ingredients. You start with jumbo pasta shells, which are perfect for holding that tasty filling. For the filling, I use ground turkey for a lean protein. It cooks up quick and adds great flavor.

Spinach is a must. I chop it fresh to keep the dish vibrant. Next, I mix in ricotta cheese. This cheese gives a creamy texture. I also add mozzarella and Parmesan for a cheesy goodness that melts beautifully.

Don’t forget the egg! It helps bind everything together. The garlic and onion powder, along with Italian seasoning, add depth to the flavor. Finally, salt and pepper enhance all the tastes.

For the sauce, I use marinara. It’s tangy and balances the rich filling. You can find the full recipe to get all the steps to create this savory and satisfying dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

– Cook jumbo pasta shells until al dente, drain and cool.

To get started, you need to preheat your oven. This ensures the shells bake evenly. Cooking the pasta shells is simple. Just follow the package directions. You want them to be firm, or “al dente.” After cooking, drain and let them cool.

Cooking the Filling

– Cook ground turkey in a skillet, stirring until browned.

– Add spinach and cook until wilted.

Now, let’s make the filling. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook it. Keep stirring until it turns brown. This usually takes about 7 to 10 minutes. Once the turkey is done, toss in the chopped spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts, which will take about 2 to 3 minutes. This will add a nice flavor to the filling.

Assembling and Baking

– Combine filling ingredients and stuff the pasta shells.

– Layer marinara sauce in the baking dish and arrange stuffed shells.

– Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake until cheese is golden.

Next, take a bowl and mix the turkey and spinach with the cheeses and egg. You want to mix it well. Grab the cooked pasta shells and stuff them with the filling. Be generous!

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells on top of this sauce, open side up. Pour the rest of the marinara sauce over the shells. Sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top for a delicious finish.

Cover the dish with foil and bake it for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil. Bake it again until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This usually takes another 10 to 15 minutes.

Check out the Full Recipe for more details!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Recipe

To stop pasta from sticking, follow these tips:

– Use plenty of water. Boil a large pot of salted water.

– Stir gently. Stir the shells carefully while they cook.

– Rinse with cold water. After draining, rinse the shells briefly to cool them.

For cooking turkey safely, remember:

– Cook to 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the center.

– Ground turkey should not be pink. Ensure it is fully cooked and no longer pink.

Serving Suggestions

To make your dish shine:

– Garnish with fresh herbs. Use basil or parsley for a burst of flavor and color.

– Pair with side dishes. Serve with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Flavor Enhancements

For extra flavor, consider these spices:

– Add red pepper flakes for heat.

– Use fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for depth.

You can also customize the filling:

– Try different cheeses. Swap ricotta for goat cheese or feta for a new twist.

– Mix in other veggies. Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

Variations

Healthier Alternatives

You can make Turkey Spinach Stuffed Shells even healthier. Try these options:

– Use whole wheat pasta for more fiber.

– Choose gluten-free pasta if you have dietary needs.

– Replace ground turkey with lean chicken for a lighter dish.

– Consider vegetarian options like lentils or mushrooms.

Flavor Variations

You can change up the flavors with some simple swaps:

– Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.

– Swap mozzarella cheese for feta or goat cheese for a unique taste.

– Mix in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for added freshness.

Seasonal Variations

Using seasonal produce can enhance your dish:

– In spring, add asparagus or peas for a fresh touch.

– During fall, consider using butternut squash for sweetness.

– For holidays, throw in some cranberries or nuts for a festive flair.

These variations keep the dish exciting and cater to your taste. You can find the Full Recipe above to try these ideas.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To store your Turkey Spinach Stuffed Shells, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Keep the shells in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. If you want to eat them later, freezing is a great option.

Freezing Tips

To freeze the stuffed shells, first let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. You can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge.

Reheating Suggestions

You can reheat the shells in the oven or the microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes. In the microwave, heat them on a plate for about 2-3 minutes. To keep the texture nice, cover them with a damp paper towel when microwaving. Enjoy your delicious meal!

FAQs

Common Questions

– How long does it take to cook Turkey Spinach Stuffed Shells?

The total time for cooking is about 50 minutes. You will need 20 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for baking.

– Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells in advance. Just cover them and store them in the fridge. Bake them when you are ready to eat.

Ingredient Substitutions

– Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can swap ground turkey for ground chicken or beef. If you want a vegetarian option, try using mushrooms or lentils.

– What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or cream cheese instead of ricotta. Just blend them to get a smooth texture.

Cooking Techniques

– How do I know when the stuffed shells are fully cooked?

The shells are done when the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. You can also insert a fork into the filling. If it feels hot, they are ready.

– Tips for preventing the shells from breaking during assembly.

Make sure to cook the shells until they are al dente. This keeps them firm. When stuffing, be gentle and avoid overfilling.

This recipe for Turkey Spinach Stuffed Shells combines simple ingredients and easy steps. You learned how to create a flavorful filling, assemble, and bake the dish to perfection. Remember to experiment with variations and storage methods. You can make this meal fit your taste and dietary needs. Enjoy sharing these tasty shells with family and friends. Cooking doesn’t just fill bellies; it brings people together. Now, roll up your sleeves and get started!

Turkey Spinach Stuffed Shells

Indulge in a delicious meal with these Turkey Spinach Stuffed Shells! This easy recipe combines tender jumbo pasta with a flavorful filling of ground turkey, spinach, and three types of cheese, all baked to perfection in a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, these stuffed shells are sure to impress. Click through now to get the full recipe and elevate your dinner game!

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Ingredients

  

20 jumbo pasta shells

1 pound ground turkey

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg, beaten

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce

Instructions

 

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey and spinach, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.

Stuff each cooked pasta shell generously with the turkey-spinach mixture and place them in the baking dish, open side up.

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle with the extra mozzarella cheese.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4-6

- Presentation Tips: Serve the stuffed shells hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. Offer extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.