Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells are not just a meal; they are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender pasta shells, bursting with creamy turkey and cheese, all wrapped up in a cozy blanket of rich marinara sauce. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making you feel nostalgic for family gatherings and laughter-filled dinners.
As the holidays wind down, we often find ourselves lost in a sea of leftover turkey. Fear not! This delightful dish transforms those leftovers into something magical. It’s like turning an old sweater into a chic scarf – practical yet fabulous! These stuffed shells are perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests at your next potluck. Get ready to experience flavors that dance on your taste buds and aromas that invite everyone to gather around the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells offer comfort food at its finest while making use of holiday leftovers
- The vibrant colors and cheesy goodness make every plate visually appealing and mouthwatering
- It’s an easy recipe that anyone can whip up, whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned chef
- Plus, you can customize it based on what you have available, making it versatile for any occasion
Ingredients for Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Large Pasta Shells: About 20-24 shells will be perfect for stuffing with turkey and cheese.
Cooked Turkey: Shred or chop your leftover turkey to add flavor and substance to the filling.
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta adds richness to the stuffing and helps bind the ingredients together.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: For topping, mozzarella melts beautifully and gives that irresistible gooey texture.
Marinara Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade – either way, it adds a flavorful base for the stuffed shells.
Fresh Parsley or Basil: Chopped herbs enhance flavor and freshness in this comforting dish.
For the seasonings:
Garlic Powder: Just a sprinkle elevates the flavor profile of your stuffed shells with aromatic notes.
Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried herbs brings warmth and depth to your filling.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil water in a large pot and cook the large pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them carefully and set aside on a baking sheet so they don’t stick together.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded turkey, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and chopped parsley or basil. Stir well until everything is mixed thoroughly.
Step 3: Fill the Shells
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take each cooked pasta shell and spoon in about two tablespoons of the turkey mixture. Place them open-side up in a greased baking dish.
Step 4: Add Marinara Sauce
Pour marinara sauce generously over all filled pasta shells. Don’t be shy; we want every bite to be swimming in saucy goodness!
Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the sauce-covered shells. This will create that delectable cheesy crust we all crave.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to avoid burning that precious cheese) and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil during the last five minutes for some glorious browning on top!
Transfer to plates and serve hot – these Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells will surely become a family favorite! Enjoy every cheesy bite while reminiscing about cherished holiday moments around your dinner table.
You Must Know
- Leftover Thanksgiving turkey stuffed shells are not just a way to use up turkey; they create a dish that’s both comforting and delicious
- With rich flavors and gooey cheese, this recipe is perfect for transforming holiday leftovers into something magical
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for those cheesy shells. Cook the pasta until al dente while sautéing garlic and onion in a pan. Combine the leftover turkey with ricotta, herbs, and spices, then stuff those shells like they’ve never been stuffed before.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your pantry staples. Want a little kick? Add some red pepper flakes or jalapeños. Not a fan of ricotta? Cream cheese can step in like a superhero. Customize these leftover Thanksgiving turkey stuffed shells to suit your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover turkey stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to dive back in, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect leftover Thanksgiving turkey stuffed shells, make sure you don’t overcook the pasta; it needs to hold its shape
- A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds brightness to the dish
- Always taste your filling before stuffing; it should be seasoned just right
Leftover Thanksgiving dinners usually mean family gatherings filled with laughter and nostalgia, but I’ll never forget one year when my sister mistakenly used pumpkin spice instead of Italian herbs. Let’s just say our plates looked more festive than appetizing!
FAQs
What are Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells?
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells are a delicious way to repurpose your holiday turkey. This comforting dish features large pasta shells filled with a savory mixture of shredded turkey, ricotta cheese, and herbs. Baked in a creamy sauce, it’s an easy meal that transforms leftovers into something special. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines flavors you love while minimizing food waste.
How do I make Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells healthier?
To make Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta shells for added fiber. You can also incorporate more vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, into the stuffing mix. Additionally, opting for low-fat cheeses and reducing the amount of cream in the sauce can significantly cut calories without sacrificing flavor. These adjustments ensure that you enjoy this dish without the guilt.
Can I freeze Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells?
Yes, you can freeze Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells! After assembling them, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This makes it convenient to have a comforting meal ready at your fingertips, perfect for busy days when cooking from scratch isn’t an option.
What sides pair well with Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells?
Several sides complement Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells beautifully. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette adds freshness and lightness to the meal. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette are excellent choices for soaking up any extra sauce. Additionally, roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli can provide color and nutrition to your plate while balancing out the richness of the stuffed shells.
Conclusion for Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells
In summary, Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells offer a delightful way to enjoy your holiday turkey in a new form. This dish combines tender pasta with flavorful stuffing and creamy sauce, making it a versatile option for dinner. With simple adjustments, you can create healthier versions or even freeze portions for later use. Embrace this recipe as a creative solution to leftover turkey and enjoy every bite!
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells are a delightful way to repurpose your holiday turkey into a warm and comforting dish. These tender pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy mixture of shredded turkey, ricotta, and herbs, all topped with gooey mozzarella and rich marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe ensures that no leftover turkey goes to waste while delivering flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 20 large pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix together shredded turkey, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and chopped herbs. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fill each shell with about two tablespoons of the turkey mixture and place them open-side up in a greased baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil for the last five minutes to brown the cheese.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
