Healthy Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells Recipe
Hey everyone! If you’re looking for a delicious and wholesome meal that’s packed with protein and veggies, you’re going to love these Healthy Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells.
This recipe takes classic stuffed shells and gives them a nutritious twist by using lean ground turkey, fresh spinach, and a light ricotta filling. It’s the perfect comfort food that’s also great for meal prep and family dinners. Let’s get cooking!
What’s in These Healthy Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells?
These stuffed shells are a balanced meal full of lean protein, fiber, and vitamins. The tender pasta shells are filled with a delicious mixture of seasoned ground turkey, sautéed spinach, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese, then baked in a flavorful marinara sauce. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is packed with nutrients!
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground turkey (lean, 93% preferred)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (part-skim)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg (lightly beaten)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Shells & Sauce:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Healthy Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo shells and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey & Spinach
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 2 minutes, until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Add the cooked turkey and spinach mixture and stir until well combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill each cooked shell with about 2 tablespoons of the turkey and spinach mixture, then place them in the dish.
Step 5: Bake the Shells
Pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Let the stuffed shells rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and enjoy!
Cooking Time & Serving
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Serving
This recipe makes 4-6 servings, perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week.
Calories & Macros (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: ~28g
- Fat: ~12g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
Tips and Variations
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta shells to accommodate dietary needs.
- Add more veggies: Toss in mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- Use whole wheat pasta: For added fiber and nutrients.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes to the turkey mixture for some heat.
- Freeze for later: Assemble the stuffed shells, cover them tightly, and freeze them before baking for an easy meal prep option.
Why I Love This Recipe
These Healthy Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells are a lighter take on a classic Italian dish, offering a perfect balance of flavors and nutrition. They’re hearty, cheesy, and packed with protein, making them a go-to for a comforting yet healthy meal.
Whether for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is always a hit. Give it a try and let me know what you think! 🍽️😊
