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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, divided - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Savory Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Discover the joy of cooking with Savory Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells, a deliciously healthy dinner option! This recipe combines ground turkey, fresh spinach, and a blend of cheeses, creating a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Perfect for family meals, gatherings, or meal prep, it’s easy to follow with step-by-step instructions. Elevate your dinner experience with this wholesome recipe that everyone will love! Enjoy cooking and savoring each bite!
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Ingredients
  

20 jumbo pasta shells

1 lb ground turkey

2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg, lightly beaten

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

3 cups marinara sauce

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil.

    Cook the Pasta Shells: Carefully add the jumbo pasta shells into the boiling water. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually for about 9-10 minutes, until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta shells carefully and set them aside to cool slightly.

      Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet set over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it’s fragrant. Next, add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.

        Incorporate Spinach: Stir in the finely chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted down. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.

          Mix the Filling Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey and spinach mixture with the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and well incorporated.

            Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked jumbo shell with the turkey and spinach filling, ensuring they are packed generously.

              Prepare the Baking Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce, making sure they are close together but not overlapping.

                Add Remaining Sauce: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure each shell is well coated. Finish by sprinkling the extra mozzarella cheese on top.

                  Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

                    Garnish and Serve: Once finished baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving. Serve the stuffed shells hot and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                        - Presentation Tips: Consider serving on a large platter and topping each serving with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a drizzle of extra marinara sauce for visual appeal.