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Why Make This Recipe

Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Stuffed Shells are a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey after a big holiday meal. Instead of just reheating the turkey, you can transform it into a delicious and hearty dish that the whole family will love. This recipe is easy to make, fun to eat, and packed with flavors. Plus, everyone loves stuffed pasta shells!

How to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Stuffed Shells

Ingredients:

20 jumbo pasta shells
2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup cranberry sauce
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package directions; drain and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded turkey, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Stuff each pasta shell with the turkey mixture.
Spread half of the cranberry sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Place the stuffed shells in the dish and top with the remaining cranberry sauce.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Stuffed Shells

You can serve these stuffed shells warm straight from the oven. They pair well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. For a festive touch, you can also serve them with extra cranberry sauce on the side.

How to Store Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Stuffed Shells

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to keep them moist. You can also freeze leftover stuffed shells for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

Tips to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Stuffed Shells

Make sure not to overcook the pasta shells; they should be firm enough to hold the filling without breaking.
Feel free to add other ingredients like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. If you have your favorite seasoning mix, you can add that too.

Variation

You can make a vegetarian version by using ricotta cheese and sautéed vegetables instead of turkey. Another great variation is to use a different type of sauce like Alfredo for a creamy twist.

FAQs

Can I use other types of leftover meat?
Yes! You can use chicken, ham, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and stuff the shells a day ahead and keep them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

What if I don’t have cranberry sauce?
You can substitute it with marinara sauce or even pesto for a different flavor profile.