Healthy For Stuffed Pasta Shells

In need of a comforting yet nutritious dish that the whole family will love? Look no further than our recipe for Healthy Stuffed Pasta Shells. These cheesy, flavorful shells are filled with a delicious blend of lean protein and wholesome ingredients, perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with loved ones. Let’s dive into how to make this satisfying meal that is as easy to prepare as it is delicious.

Healthy Stuffed Pasta Shells

Ingredients:
– 1 box of jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound lean ground turkey
– 1 small onion, finely diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 24-ounce jar of marinara sauce
– 1 cup low-fat ricotta cheese
– 1 cup spinach, chopped
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula until it is no longer pink. Add in the diced onion and garlic, and continue to cook until the onion is translucent.

4. Stir in the dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes for added flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Pour in the marinara sauce and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat.

6. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well to create a creamy filling.

7. Take each cooked pasta shell and carefully stuff it with a spoonful of the ricotta and spinach mixture, followed by the turkey and marinara sauce mixture.

8. Place the filled shells in the prepared baking dish, nestling them closely together to ensure they stay upright.

9. Once all the shells are filled and arranged in the dish, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, covering each shell generously.

10. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the cheese to turn golden brown on top.

12. Once baked, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Enjoy these Healthy Stuffed Pasta Shells hot out of the oven, with a side salad or your favorite veggie dish. They make for a perfect meal that’s both satisfying and guilt-free. These delicious shells are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.