Easy Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells

In the realm of comfort food, few dishes rival the heartwarming nature of Cheesy Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Shells. This delightful recipe combines tender jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a savory mixture of ground turkey, fresh spinach, and an array of cheeses, all enveloped in a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is not only satisfying but also a great way to incorporate lean protein and greens into your meal. Let's dive into the details of this delicious recipe, including step-by-step instructions and the nutritional benefits of the ingredients used.

Easy Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Shells. This delicious recipe features tender jumbo pasta filled with a savory mixture of ground turkey, fresh spinach, and three types of cheese, all baked in a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners, it’s both satisfying and nutritious, incorporating lean protein and greens. Follow the easy steps to create a meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy the joy of cooking and heartwarming gatherings!

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Ingredients

20-24 jumbo pasta shells

1 pound ground turkey

2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups marinara sauce, divided

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking.

Cook the Pasta Shells: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the shells and allow them to cool slightly while preparing the filling.

Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the ground turkey. Cook for approximately 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the turkey is browned and no longer pink. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the filling lean.

Add Spinach and Seasonings: To the cooked turkey, stir in the minced garlic and chopped spinach. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted and shrunk down. Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste for extra flavor.

Combine Cheeses: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the turkey and spinach mixture with ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella (1/2 cup), and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly blended.

Stuff the Shells: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Take a spoon and carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the turkey and spinach cheese mixture. Position the stuffed shells in the dish, making sure the seam side is facing up.

Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well coated. Top the dish with the remaining mozzarella cheese for a deliciously cheesy finish.

Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Garnish and Serve: Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting dish!

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

Presentation Tips: Serve the stuffed shells on individual plates, drizzled with extra marinara sauce and a sprinkle of cheese if desired. Add a side salad to complement the meal.