This delightful dish offers a comforting twist on classic stuffed shells, making it a perfect pasta dinner recipe for any night of the week. You’ll love how easy it is to assemble and how satisfying each bite of turkey and cheese-filled pasta is.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Jumbo Pasta Shells: Use another large pasta shape like manicotti if shells aren’t available.
- Ground Turkey: Ground chicken or lean ground beef work well as substitutes.
- Ricotta Cheese: Cottage cheese can be used for a similar creamy texture.
- Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought brand or homemade version.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses are great alternatives.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells (about 20-25 shells)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories
- Tools Needed: Large pot, large skillet, 9×13 inch baking dish, mixing bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo shells and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the shells and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Turkey Filling
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Make the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
4. Combine and Stuff the Shells
Add the cooled turkey mixture to the cheese mixture and stir until combined. Carefully fill each cooked jumbo shell with about 2 tablespoons of the turkey and cheese filling.
5. Assemble and Bake
Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring they are mostly covered. Sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake Until Golden
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving this delicious pasta dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas
- Add a layer of cooked spinach to the cheese mixture for extra veggies.
- Use a spicy marinara sauce to give it a kick.
- Top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a crispy crust.
- Experiment with different cheeses, like smoked provolone or Fontina.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover turkey stuffed jumbo shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or cover the baking dish with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish completely and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Can I freeze turkey stuffed jumbo shells?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, or bake from frozen (this will increase baking time).
What if my shells tear while stuffing?
Don’t worry! If a shell tears, you can still use the filling. Simply layer it in the baking dish alongside the intact shells or mix it into the sauce.
What can I serve with this pasta dinner recipe?
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this hearty meal.
How do I prevent the shells from sticking together after boiling?
Rinse the cooked shells with cold water immediately after draining. You can also toss them lightly with a small amount of olive oil.
Can I make this recipe without the egg?
The egg helps bind the filling, but if you have an allergy or prefer not to use it, you can omit it. The filling might be slightly less firm, but still delicious.