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turkey and spinach stuffed shells

Easy Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells are a comforting, cheesy, and protein-packed meal perfect for family dinners. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a rich mixture of ground turkey, ricotta, mozzarella, and spinach, then baked in a flavorful marinara sauce.
This Italian-American classic is easy to make, freezer-friendly, and pairs perfectly with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Filling:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

  • 2 cups marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • ½ onion finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

Other Essentials:

  • 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until they are al dente (about 10 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
  • Add ground turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes).
  • Stir in chopped spinach and cook for another 2 minutes until wilted.
  • Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg until well combined.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Fill each shell with about 2 tablespoons of the turkey and ricotta mixture and place them in the baking dish, open side up.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

  • Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  • Sprinkle with additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Keyword Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells