Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a cozy and delicious way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers, then you’re in for a treat! These Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells are not just about saving food; they’re all about joyfully transforming those hearty leftovers into something special. Imagine tender jumbo pasta shells filled with succulent turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and a hint of savory goodness. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth to busy weeknights or family gatherings.

This recipe is a cherished favorite in my home because it’s simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to involve the whole family in the kitchen—everyone loves stuffing those shells! You can whip this up with ease and enjoy every cheesy bite while reminiscing about the holiday spirit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delightful dish ready in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves pasta! These stuffed shells are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can assemble them ahead of time and bake when you’re ready.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of turkey, mashed potatoes, and gravy creates a comforting taste that feels like a warm hug.
• Versatile ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that make these Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells so delightful. They’re easy to find, and I bet you already have most of them on hand!

For the Filling

• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 C turkey (chopped into bite-size pieces)
• 1 C mashed potatoes
• 1 Tbsp celery (diced)
• 2 Tbsp yellow onion (diced)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 3 oz cheddar cheese (shredded and divided)

For Assembly

• 1 1/4 C gravy
• 1 C bread stuffing
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you’re feeling creative or want to cater to different tastes, here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or veggies instead of turkey for a lighter version.
• Mix in greens: Add some spinach or kale into the filling for an extra nutritional boost.
• Change the cheese: Try mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheesy flavor!
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or taco seasoning for a zesty twist.

How to Make Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it’s heating up, lightly grease a 1½ quart baking dish. This will ensure that your stuffed shells don’t stick and makes clean-up easier later!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

Boil your jumbo pasta shells in salted water for about 8-9 minutes until they’re al dente. Drain them gently and set aside. It’s important not to overcook them; they’ll bake further in the oven later.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine your chopped turkey, warmed mashed potatoes, diced onion and celery, minced garlic, and half of your shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper if desired. Mix everything well—this is where all those flavors come together!

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Spread about ¾ cup of gravy on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Use a medium cookie scoop (or spoon) to fill each pasta shell with that delicious turkey mixture. Place them snugly in your prepared pan. Top each shell with leftover stuffing, drizzle on more gravy, and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Pop your dish into the oven and let it bake at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes. You want everything heated through and bubbling with melted cheese on top! For an extra touch of freshness, feel free to sprinkle some parsley or chives before serving.

And there you have it—your very own batch of Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells! Serve them warm and watch as everyone gathers around for seconds. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells

Don’t let those delicious Thanksgiving leftovers go to waste—transform them into a delightful meal with these handy tips!

• Use fresh herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme enhances the flavor profile of your stuffed shells. They bring a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the turkey and cheese.
• Customize your stuffing: Feel free to swap out the bread stuffing with your favorite variety, such as cornbread stuffing or even a quinoa mix. This allows you to tailor the dish to your personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Make ahead: If you’re short on time, prepare the stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This is a fantastic option for busy weeknights!
• Experiment with cheeses: While cheddar is delicious, you can try mixing in other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist. Different cheeses add unique flavors and textures that can elevate this dish.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking the pasta shells until they’re al dente ensures they hold their shape when you stuff them. Overcooked shells can become too soft and may fall apart during baking.

How to Serve Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells

Serving your Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells in an appealing way will make this dish even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, brightening up the dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A light dusting of Parmesan on top gives an extra cheesy finish and a nice salty kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any extra gravy left on your plate. The buttery flavor complements the savory stuffed shells beautifully.
• Green salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, like Brussels sprouts or carrots, add color and nutrition to your meal while balancing out the hearty pasta.
• Cranberry sauce: A side of homemade cranberry sauce provides a sweet-tart element that contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of turkey and gravy.

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to gather those leftovers and dive into a comforting plate of Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time or store leftovers for a quick weeknight dinner. Here’s how to keep your delicious stuffed shells fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They can be kept for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the stuffed shells, prepare them without baking first.
• Place the unbaked shells in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• To reheat refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• For frozen stuffed shells, bake directly from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, covered with foil until heated through.

FAQs

Have questions about making Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use other types of meat for the stuffed shells?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on turkey, you can substitute your favorite cooked meats such as chicken or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian twist.

How do I make Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the turkey with a combination of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You can also add beans or lentils for protein!

Can I prepare Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells in advance?

Yes! Prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions above for optimal freshness.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

While cheddar cheese is delicious, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of your favorites!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells as much as I do! This recipe not only transforms your holiday leftovers into something special but also brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!