Thanksgiving is a time for feasting and creating cherished memories with loved ones, but the days following the holiday often leave us with a bounty of delicious leftovers. One inventive and satisfying way to use up those holiday remnants is by making Thanksgiving leftover stuffed shells. This recipe transforms your turkey, stuffing, and other Thanksgiving favorites into a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. The combination of large pasta shells filled with a savory blend of turkey, cheese, and seasonal ingredients, all baked in a rich sauce, ensures that your leftovers are enjoyed in a new and exciting way. Whether you’re looking to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers or just craving a comforting dish, this recipe will make the most out of your holiday feast.
Ingredients for Thanksgiving Leftover Stuffed Shells
For the Stuffed Shells:
- 20-24 large pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup leftover stuffing (or prepared stuffing mix)
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups homemade or store-bought marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Extra shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
How to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Stuffed Shells
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta Shells:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to prevent them from sticking together. Set aside on a baking sheet or plate.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, leftover stuffing, cranberry sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and ricotta cheese. If using, add the egg to help bind the mixture together.
- Mix everything together until well combined. The filling should be moist and slightly chunky.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, heavy cream, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust seasoning to taste if necessary.
- Assemble the Stuffed Shells:
- Spread a thin layer of the prepared sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Carefully spoon the turkey filling into each pasta shell, making sure not to overfill them. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, placing them side by side.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake the Stuffed Shells:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is hot.
- If desired, sprinkle extra shredded mozzarella cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a touch of color and added flavor.
- Serve the stuffed shells with a side salad or additional cranberry sauce, if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Pasta Shells
Large pasta shells are ideal for stuffing because they hold a generous amount of filling. Their shape helps to keep the contents contained while baking, resulting in a satisfying and well-rounded dish.
Turkey
The cooked turkey serves as the primary protein in this dish, adding a hearty and flavorful element. Leftover turkey from Thanksgiving is perfect for this recipe, but freshly cooked turkey works just as well.
Stuffing
Leftover stuffing adds a wonderful texture and flavor to the filling. Its seasoned bread cubes blend nicely with the turkey and cheeses, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce brings a touch of sweetness and tartness to the filling, balancing out the savory flavors of the turkey and stuffing. It also adds a festive touch to the dish.
Cheeses
Mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta cheeses contribute to the creamy and cheesy texture of the filling. They melt beautifully and create a rich and flavorful dish.
Marinara Sauce
The marinara sauce forms the base of the baked dish, adding moisture and a tangy flavor. Mixing it with heavy cream creates a creamy and luscious sauce that complements the stuffed shells.
By utilizing Thanksgiving leftovers in this creative way, you not only reduce food waste but also enjoy a new and delicious dish that captures the essence of the holiday meal. This Thanksgiving leftover stuffed shells recipe is a wonderful example of how to transform your festive leftovers into a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
