Ah, Thanksgiving – the time of year when we gather around the table with loved ones, share laughter, and indulge in that comforting feast of turkey, stuffing, and all the trimmings. But let’s face it, as much as we adore the main event, the aftermath of a turkey-riddled fridge can feel daunting. That’s where my delightful Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells come to the rescue!
I remember the first time I made these stuffed beauties. We had mountains of turkey left over, and I was tired of sandwiches. Honestly, I wanted to eat something exciting, and these stuffed shells came to life! They’re creamy, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying, turning sad leftovers into something splendid. Plus, you get to smother them in creamy white sauce and sprinkle crispy onions on top – who can resist that? Let’s dive in, shall we?
What’s in Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells?
Jumbo pasta shells: These are the heart and soul of this dish. Their large size makes them perfect for stuffing and create an inviting bite. I usually buy the Barilla brand, but any similar jumbo shells work just fine!
Cooked turkey: The star ingredient! This is where those Thanksgiving leftovers shine. Shred or chop your turkey, and it’ll bring that holiday flavor right back to your plate.
Leftover stuffing: This adds a delicious, savory element that brings in all those Thanksgiving vibes. If you have some particularly tasty stuffing, definitely use that!
Cream cheese: A dollop of creaminess that holds the filling together. Make sure it’s softened – nobody wants lumps in their filling!
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Who doesn’t love cheese? It melty and gooey, making each bite of these shells incredibly indulgent.
Milk: Just enough to help create that creamy texture. You can use whole, skim, or even a non-dairy option if that’s what you have on hand.
Garlic powder & onion powder: These seasonings add depth of flavor and make the stuffing sing! Feel free to adjust according to your taste.
Salt and pepper: Always essential for any recipe! A good seasoning balance brings everything together.
Creamy white sauce: You can either whip up a quick homemade sauce or grab a jar from the store. Either way, it adds a delightful creaminess to the dish.
Fresh herbs: I love using parsley and thyme for garnish; they not only add a pop of color, but they also enhance the flavor beautifully.
Crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs: These are the finishing touch! They add an irresistible crunch, and I sometimes even sneak in extra for a mid-baking snack (oops).
Is Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells Good for You?
Honestly, it can be quite the comfort meal, but it also holds some redeeming qualities!
Turkey: Packed with protein and low in fat, turkey is a fantastic choice for a post-holiday meal. It helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Stuffing: Depending on the ingredients, stuffing can offer some fiber. If you’re using whole grain bread or adding in veggies, you’re boosting the nutritional value!
Cream cheese & mozzarella: Now, let’s be real – while they add that creamy deliciousness we crave, they also increase the calorie count. So enjoy in moderation!
The beauty of this dish is its flexibility. You can *absolutely* sneak in some leftover veggies, such as green beans or roasted carrots, to add more nutrients. So, while it may not be the most health-conscious meal, it’s certainly a tasty way to enjoy those festive flavors!
How to Make Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), because we want things nice and toasty!
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Drain them and set them aside, so they can chill out a bit.
3. In a large bowl, combine your shredded turkey, leftover stuffing, cream cheese, half of the mozzarella, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it well until everything is evenly incorporated – the tastier the mix, the tastier the shells!
4. Now comes the fun part – stuff each pasta shell with your delicious turkey filling. Don’t be shy; fill them generously!
5. Spread half of that creamy white sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, acting like a cozy blanket for the shells.
6. Place all your stuffed shells in the baking dish in a single layer. Drizzle the remaining creamy sauce over the top, like a lovely sauce hat!
7. Sprinkle those crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs evenly over the shells for that well-deserved crunch.
8. Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until it’s all bubbly and golden.
9. Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes to avoid burning your tongue. Garnish with fresh chopped herbs and voilà – dinner is served!
Savory Suggestions for Your Stuffed Shells
As much as I adore this recipe as is, don’t hesitate to make it your own! Have some leftover roasted vegetables? Toss them into the filling. Like a bit of heat? Add some red pepper flakes! You could even swap the white sauce for a marinara if you’re feeling adventurous. These stuffed shells are incredibly versatile!
So, gather your leftover Thanksgiving delights and give this recipe a whirl. You won’t just be cleaning out your fridge; you’ll be making a delicious meal that might just become a new family tradition! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out, so please share your experiences and any fun variations you try! Happy cooking!
