Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure where healthy meets delicious! These Healthy Stuffed Shells with Ground Turkey and Spinach are not just a meal; they’re a comforting hug in pasta form. Filled with a rich blend of savory turkey, creamy cheeses, and vibrant spinach, each shell is a burst of flavor that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is as nutritious as it is satisfying!
Ingredients
- 20-25 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting scent.
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions, until they are perfectly al dente. Once done, drain them and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground turkey for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s beautifully cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped spinach to the turkey, sautéing until the spinach wilts, releasing its lovely flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey mixture with ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated and harmonious.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish, creating a delicious base for your stuffed shells.
- Gently stuff each cooked shell with the turkey and cheese mixture, arranging them snugly in the baking dish.
- Crown the stuffed shells with the remaining marinara sauce, and then sprinkle with the leftover mozzarella cheese for that melty goodness.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes, letting all those flavors meld together.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and turns a lovely golden brown.
- Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil, if desired, for that aromatic touch before serving!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize these stuffed shells! You can swap ground turkey for lean ground beef or even add more vegetables for an extra nutritional punch. Make it your own!
For a creamy twist, consider mixing some cream cheese into the filling. And don’t forget to save any leftover marinara for drizzling on top just before serving!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves a few essential techniques that are easy to master:
- Sautéing: Cooking the turkey and spinach together not only enhances flavor but also helps to keep the filling moist.
- Stuffing: Gently filling the pasta shells allows for an even distribution of the tasty turkey filling, ensuring every bite is packed with goodness.
- Baking: Covering the dish while baking traps steam, making your shells tender and the cheese extra melty!
FAQ
Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shells up to the baking step and store them covered in the refrigerator. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.
Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Yes! Assemble the shells in a freezer-safe dish and freeze them before baking. When ready to eat, simply bake them straight from frozen, adding extra time to ensure they cook through.
Conclusion
These Healthy Stuffed Shells with Ground Turkey and Spinach are the perfect solution for a delicious and nutritious meal that brings warmth to the table. With every forkful, you’ll relish the rich flavors and textures that make comfort food so special. So gather your loved ones, serve up these heartfelt shells, and enjoy a delightful dinner experience that nourishes both body and soul!