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Cheesy Ground Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Shells

Cheesy Ground Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Shells


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  • Author: Kate Walton
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6

Description

These Cheesy Ground Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Shells are the perfect weeknight comfort food—packed with ground turkey, fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella. Easy to prep ahead and freezer-friendly, this stuffed shells recipe is a cozy crowd-pleaser the whole family will love. Great for meal prep, gatherings, and anyone craving hearty Italian-inspired flavor.


Ingredients

12 ounces jumbo pasta shells

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground turkey

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

5 cups fresh spinach

1 ½ cups ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

3 cups marinara sauce

Chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)


Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente, 1-2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside on a tray to prevent sticking.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

3. Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

4. In a large bowl, mix the cooked turkey-spinach mixture with ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, and ½ cup of Parmesan until well combined.

5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of the dish.

6. Stuff each pasta shell with the filling and arrange them in the dish. Spoon remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

8. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired.

Notes

Make sure to let the filling cool slightly before mixing with the cheese to prevent melting or separation.

Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente shells are easier to stuff and hold their shape better when baked.

For a crispier cheesy top, broil the dish for 2–3 minutes after baking.

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approx. 3-4 stuffed shells
  • Calories: 485
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 810mg
  • Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg