Description
This Healthy Stuffed Shells recipe combines tender jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a savory mixture of ground turkey, ground beef, spinach, and creamy cheeses. Baked in rich marinara sauce and topped with fresh mozzarella, this comforting Italian-inspired dish is perfect for a family dinner and offers a hearty yet balanced meal packed with protein and veggies.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz jumbo shells
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 onion, diced
Spinach
- 10 oz frozen spinach
Cheese Mixture
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 9 oz Parmesan Romano cheese blend
Seasonings & Sauce
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 48 oz marinara sauce
Toppings & Garnish
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta shells: Boil jumbo shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, keeping them covered with a wet paper towel to prevent drying out.
- Brown the meats and onions: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground turkey and ground beef together with diced onion until no pink remains. Drain excess fat to keep the mixture lean.
- Prepare spinach: Thaw frozen spinach by rinsing under warm water using a colander, then press out as much water as possible to avoid soggy filling.
- Mix filling: In a large bowl, combine browned meat and onions, thawed spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan Romano blend, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to create a uniform filling mixture.
- Stuff shells: Gently fill each cooked jumbo shell with the meat and cheese mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in one or two large baking pans (you can freeze extra portions for later).
- Add sauce and cheese topping: Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Top with slices of fresh mozzarella to create a melty, cheesy layer.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the shells for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving warm for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Make sure to thoroughly drain the spinach to prevent excess moisture in the filling.
- You can substitute ground beef with all ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Freeze unused stuffed shells before baking for up to 3 months; bake from frozen adding an extra 10-15 minutes to cooking time.
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best melting and flavor results.
- Cover baking dish with foil if cheese browns too quickly while baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
