Go Back
- 20 large pasta shells - 1 pound ground turkey - 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 small onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 cups marinara sauce - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Optional: Fresh basil for garnish

Savory Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Discover the joy of cooking with this Savory Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells recipe. This wholesome dish features a delicious blend of ground turkey, nutrient-dense spinach, and creamy cheeses, all packed into large pasta shells for a comforting meal. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, it's a nutritious way to sneak in some healthy ingredients. Follow the simple steps for a satisfying dish that's sure to impress everyone at your table!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

20 jumbo pasta shells

1 pound ground turkey

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

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

    Cook the Turkey: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

      Add Spinach and Turkey: Increase the heat to medium-high, then add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

        Combine the Filling: Remove the skillet from heat. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey and spinach mix with ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

          Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Fill each cooked pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the turkey and spinach mixture and place them in the prepared baking dish.

            Add Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is well-coated. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.

                Garnish and Serve: Once done, let the dish cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful savory turkey and spinach stuffed shells!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour | 4-6 servings