Go Back
- 12 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 - 2 cups marinara sauce - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste

Easy Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Try this Savory Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Shells recipe for a delightful and nutritious meal that everyone will love. Tender pasta shells are generously filled with a hearty mix of ground turkey, fresh spinach, and a blend of creamy cheeses, all baked in marinara sauce. This dish is a perfect weeknight dinner option that can easily be prepared in advance. With rich flavors and a balanced nutritional profile, it’s a satisfying choice for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

20 jumbo 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 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the pasta shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and gently rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

      Prepare the turkey mixture: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

        Incorporate spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

          Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey and spinach, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined.

            Stuff the shells: Spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the turkey and spinach mixture and place them seam side up in the dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.

              Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the shells.

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

                  Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious stuffed shells!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes | 4 servings