Cheesy Ground Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Shells

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If you’re craving comfort food that hits all the right notes of creamy, cheesy, savory goodness, these Cheesy Ground Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Shells are exactly what your dinner table needs. Big pasta shells filled with a rich mix of ground turkey, wilted spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella, all nestled in a sea of vibrant marinara sauce — it’s the perfect baked dish for cozy weeknights or to impress guests at the table.

What makes this dish shine is the combination of flavors and textures. The hearty ground turkey adds a lighter protein alternative without sacrificing flavor, while the spinach gives it a nutritious boost. The creamy cheese filling, combined with the slight bite of baked pasta and the depth of a good tomato sauce, makes this dish a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to keep in rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Shells Recipe

This recipe checks all the boxes: it’s easy, delicious, and great for prepping ahead. The filling can be made a day in advance, and the assembled shells freeze beautifully, making it ideal for busy schedules. Whether you’re making a weeknight meal or prepping for guests, this dish delivers comfort with every bite.

Plus, it’s a fun way to sneak in greens for picky eaters. The melted cheese and savory turkey balance out the spinach, so even those who aren’t fans of veggies won’t mind them hiding inside.

What Kind of Pasta Shells Should I Use?

You’ll want to use jumbo pasta shells for this recipe. They’re large enough to hold the generous filling without falling apart during baking. Be sure to cook them al dente — they’ll continue cooking in the oven, so slightly undercooking helps keep the texture just right.

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Ingredients for the Cheesy Ground Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Shells

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in building layers of flavor and texture:

• Jumbo pasta shells – These are the base of the recipe, perfect for holding the savory, cheesy filling.
• Ground turkey – A lean protein that adds a hearty, satisfying bite without overpowering the dish.
• Fresh spinach – Adds color, nutrients, and a mild earthiness that balances the richness of the cheese.
• Ricotta cheese – The creamy heart of the filling, adding smooth texture and mild flavor.
• Mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for that stretchy, cheesy topping we all love.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, umami kick to round out the cheesy blend.
• Egg – Helps bind the filling together for a cohesive texture.
• Garlic and onion – These aromatics lay down the flavor foundation for the turkey filling.
• Italian seasoning – A mix of herbs that gives the dish its signature Italian flavor.
• Marinara sauce – The base that ties everything together with bright tomato flavor.
• Salt and pepper – Simple but essential for bringing all the flavors to life.

How To Make the Cheesy Ground Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Boil the jumbo pasta shells until just al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside on a baking sheet to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Mixture

In a skillet, cook diced onion and minced garlic until soft. Add the ground turkey and cook until no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach (lightly wilted and squeezed dry), one beaten egg, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan. Mix until well incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Shells

Spoon a layer of marinara sauce into the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each shell with a generous spoonful of the turkey and cheese mixture. Place stuffed shells into the baking dish, seam side up.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake

Top the shells with remaining marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

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How to Serve and Store These Stuffed Shells

This dish serves about 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size. It’s a satisfying meal on its own, perfect for dinner with minimal prep once it’s baked.

To store leftovers, allow the shells to cool completely. Then, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. You can also freeze the stuffed shells – either before baking or after – for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe container.

What to Serve With Cheesy Ground Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Shells?

Garlic Bread

The crispy, buttery edges of garlic bread make a fantastic side to scoop up extra sauce and cheese.

Caesar Salad

A crunchy Caesar salad with creamy dressing provides a fresh and tangy contrast to the richness of the shells.

Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots for a warm, colorful, and healthy pairing.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil with a drizzle of balsamic glaze complement the Italian vibe of this dish.

Sauteed Green Beans

Lightly cooked with a little olive oil and garlic, green beans are a great, crisp side option.

Minestrone Soup

Want to go all out Italian-style? Serve a small bowl of minestrone before the main course.

Bruschetta

Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil adds a refreshing bite to kick off the meal.

Antipasto Platter

A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables adds variety and flair for gatherings or special occasions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to freeze stuffed shells?
Place the unbaked shells in a baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze. When ready to cook, bake from frozen at 375°F for about 45 minutes, or thaw overnight in the fridge for quicker baking.

Can I substitute ground beef or chicken for turkey?
Absolutely. Ground beef or chicken works well in this recipe if you prefer a different protein or want to use what you have on hand.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Sure! Just omit the ground turkey and double up on the spinach and cheese mixture. You can even add mushrooms or chopped zucchini for extra texture.

How do I keep my shells from sticking together?
After boiling, rinse the pasta shells with cold water and lightly coat them with olive oil. This keeps them from sticking and makes them easier to handle.

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Conclusion

These Cheesy Ground Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Shells are a cozy, satisfying meal that brings comfort and flavor to your table without a fuss. Whether you’re making them for a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe is easy to love and even easier to share. With its creamy filling, bold tomato sauce, and melty cheese topping, it hits all the right notes of homemade Italian goodness.

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