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Comfort food has a unique way of bringing warmth and satisfaction to our lives, especially during chilly days or busy weeknights. One dish that perfectly embodies this genre is Cheesy Turkey Spinach Stuffed Shells. This recipe not only offers a delightful blend of flavors but also serves as a nutritious alternative to traditional stuffed pasta. By incorporating ground turkey and spinach, this dish strikes a healthy balance, making it an excellent choice for those who want to indulge without the guilt.

Cheesy Turkey Spinach Stuffed Shells

Indulge in the comforting taste of Cheesy Turkey Spinach Stuffed Shells, a nutritious twist on traditional pasta. This recipe features large pasta shells filled with a delicious mix of lean ground turkey, fresh spinach, and a blend of creamy cheeses. Baked to perfection with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, these stuffed shells are not only satisfying but also packed with essential nutrients. Perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Try it today for a wholesome meal that combines flavor with goodness!
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Ingredients
  

12 large pasta shells

1 pound ground turkey

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.

    Cook the Pasta Shells: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta shells and cook them according to the package directions until al dente. Once done, drain the shells and set them aside to cool on a plate.

      Prepare the Filling: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Next, add the ground turkey along with the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the turkey is thoroughly browned and cooked through.

        Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach, allowing it to wilt in the pan for about 2 minutes. Once the spinach is soft, remove the skillet from the heat.

          Mix the Cheeses: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey and spinach mixture with the ricotta cheese. Add half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly combined.

            Stuff the Shells: Take one of the cooled pasta shells and gently fill it with the cheesy turkey and spinach mixture using a spoon. Continue this process until all the shells are generously filled.

              Prepare the Baking Dish: Pour about 1 cup of marinara sauce into a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Place the stuffed shells in the dish, making sure the open sides are facing up.

                Add Marinara Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, distributing them evenly.

                  Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After this, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is beautifully bubbly and golden.

                    Garnish and Serve: Once the dish is finished baking, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 55 min | 4 servings

                        Presentation Tips: Serve the stuffed shells with a side salad and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top to enhance both presentation and flavor!