Description
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells
Give your Thanksgiving leftovers a makeover! Transform leftover turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravy into a comforting dish of jumbo pasta shells, all stuffed to perfection. It’s a creative way to keep those classic flavors alive without feeling like the same old plate of leftovers. Plus, it’s so easy to make!
12 jumbo pasta shells
1 cup leftover turkey, chopped
1 cup mashed potatoes
1 tbsp celery, diced
2 tbsp yellow onion, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
3 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
1 ¼ cups gravy
1 cup stuffing
Salt & pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Boil pasta shells for 8-9 mins. Drain.
2. Mix filling: turkey, potatoes, veggies, garlic, half the cheese.
3. Spread gravy in baking dish, fill shells, top with stuffing & remaining cheese. Bake for 25-30 mins.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Kcal: ~400 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the best results. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 12 jumbo pasta shells for 8-9 minutes until al dente; they will soften further during baking. Drain and set aside to cool slightly for handling.
While the pasta cooks, prepare the filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of chopped leftover turkey, 1 cup of mashed potatoes, 1 tablespoon of diced celery, 2 tablespoons of diced yellow onion, 1 minced garlic clove, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.
Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread ½ cup of the gravy evenly across the bottom. Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked shell with the turkey-potato mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells snugly in the dish. Pour the remaining ¾ cup of gravy over the top of the shells. Evenly sprinkle 1 cup of leftover stuffing over the shells, followed by the remaining shredded cheese.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly browned.
Serving Suggestions
This rich, comforting dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or glazed carrots also make excellent accompaniments. For a complete leftover feast, offer a small side of cranberry sauce on the table.
How-to Summary
In short: Cook shells. Mix leftover turkey, mashed potatoes, diced veggies, garlic, and half the cheese for the filling. Spread gravy in a dish, place filled shells inside, top with more gravy, leftover stuffing, and remaining cheese. Bake covered at 350°F for 20 mins, then uncovered for 5-10 mins until hot and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the stuffed shells in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What if I don’t have leftover gravy? You can use a store-bought turkey or chicken gravy, or make a quick pan gravy using turkey drippings or broth.
Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Italian cheese blend would work wonderfully in place of cheddar.
Is it possible to freeze these stuffed shells? For best results, freeze the assembled, unbaked dish. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Can I add other leftover vegetables? Definitely. Diced carrots, peas, or even chopped green beans can be mixed into the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta shells during the initial boil, as they will become mushy after baking. Ensure your filling is not too dry; the mashed potatoes and gravy should create a moist mixture. Do not skip spreading gravy on the bottom of the dish, as it prevents sticking and adds crucial moisture. Finally, remember to season the filling well, as leftovers can sometimes be underseasoned.
Conclusion
These Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells are the ultimate solution for transforming your holiday remnants into a brand-new, family-friendly meal. They creatively combine all the classic flavors into a fun, baked pasta format that feels special and delicious. This recipe is a testament to the fact that the second act of your Thanksgiving feast can be just as memorable as the first.