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Delve into the delightful world of comfort food with our Cheesy Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells. This recipe combines the hearty flavors of ground turkey and fresh spinach, all enveloped in tender pasta shells and topped with a rich, gooey cheese blend. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, these stuffed shells are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. In this article, we will explore each step of the recipe in detail, providing helpful insights and variations to enhance your cooking experience.

Cheesy Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Cheesy Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells recipe! These flavorful pasta shells are filled with a delicious mixture of ground turkey, fresh spinach, and a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this dish combines nutrition and taste in every bite. Follow our easy step-by-step instructions to create a wholesome meal that will delight your loved ones.
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Ingredients
  

12 large pasta shells

1 lb ground turkey

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Fresh basil, 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 the stuffed shells.

    Cook the pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, carefully add the pasta shells. Cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente (firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly on a clean kitchen towel or a plate.

      Prepare the filling: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, cooking until it is browned, while breaking it up into smaller pieces with a spatula. Once browned, add the minced garlic and chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir and cook until the spinach has wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes.

        Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled turkey and spinach mixture with ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, the egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.

          Stuff the shells: Take one of the cooled pasta shells and spoon in about 2 tablespoons of the turkey and spinach filling. Be generous but ensure it’s not overflowing. Repeat this process for all the remaining shells, placing them aside once filled.

            Prepare the baking dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Carefully arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce, ensuring they are not overcrowded.

              Add sauce and cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure each one is nicely covered. Then sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top for that extra cheesy goodness.

                Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake covered for 25 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbling.

                  Garnish and serve: Once you take the baking dish out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes to set. Finish by garnishing the dish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor before serving.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 4

                      - Serving Suggestion: Serve the stuffed shells with a simple side salad and a slice of crusty garlic bread to complement the meal perfectly!