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- 12 jumbo pasta shells - 1 pound ground turkey - 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper, to taste - 2 cups marinara sauce - Olive oil, for sautéing

Quick Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Discover the delightful blend of flavors in Savory Spinach & Turkey Shells, a family-friendly recipe that combines healthy ground turkey, fresh spinach, and a rich medley of cheeses, all enveloped in tender pasta shells. Baked to perfection with a delicious marinara sauce, this dish offers a satisfying meal that appeals to both kids and adults. Perfect for gatherings, it’s not just nutritious but also a comforting classic that you’ll want to make again and again.
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Ingredients
  

20 large pasta shells

1 pound ground turkey

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg, beaten

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Then, add the ground turkey, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.

        Add Spinach and Cheese: Reduce heat to low, then stir in the chopped spinach until wilted. Once the spinach has cooked down, remove from heat. In a mixing bowl, combine the turkey-spinach mixture with ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the beaten egg. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

          Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon, fill each cooked shell with a generous amount of the turkey and spinach filling. Place the filled shells in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

            Add Sauce & Cheese: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, then slice and serve warm.

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6