Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells

If you’re looking for a delicious way to repurpose your Thanksgiving leftovers, these Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells are just the ticket! This recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it transforms simple ingredients into something warm and comforting. Imagine cozying up with a plate of cheesy, stuffed pasta shells filled with tender turkey and creamy mashed potatoes. It’s like giving your leftovers a second life, and trust me, your family will love it!

These stuffed shells are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick meal that feels special. They also make a great centerpiece for family gatherings, bringing everyone together over a hearty dish that showcases the best of your holiday feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for any night of the week.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy digging into these cheesy pasta shells—everyone loves a fun dinner!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the shells ahead of time and simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously Flavorful: With savory turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich gravy, this dish is packed with flavors that evoke the warmth of Thanksgiving.
• Great Use of Leftovers: Say goodbye to wasted food! This recipe is an excellent way to ensure no turkey or gravy goes uneaten.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for these Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells is simple and wholesome. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Stuffed Shells

• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 C turkey (cooked and diced)
• 1 C mashed potatoes
• 1 Tbsp celery (diced)
• 2 Tbsp yellow onion (diced)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 3 oz cheddar cheese (shredded and divided)
• 1 1/4 C gravy
• 1 C bread stuffing
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients.

• Swap the protein: If you have leftover chicken or beef instead of turkey, go ahead and use that!
• Add some veggies: Toss in some cooked spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
• Change up the cheese: Try using mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheesy experience.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta shells and stuffing to enjoy this dish without gluten.

How to Make Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your stuffed shells cook evenly and come out perfectly bubbly.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Next, bring a pot of water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells for about 8-9 minutes until they’re al dente. Drain them carefully so they don’t break apart—these shells need to hold all that delicious filling!

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the pasta is cooking, it’s time to whip up that mouthwatering filling! Chop your leftover turkey into bite-sized pieces and warm up the mashed potatoes. In a medium bowl, combine the turkey, mashed potatoes, diced onion, celery, minced garlic, and half of the shredded cheese. If you like it seasoned just right, feel free to add salt and pepper here too.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Spread about 3/4 cup of gravy on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, fill each pasta shell with your tasty mixture. Once they’re all snug in their baking dish, top everything off with leftover stuffing, remaining gravy, and sprinkle with more shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop those stuffed shells in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until they’re nice and hot throughout. For an extra touch of color and flavor, consider garnishing with fresh parsley or chives before serving warm.

And there you have it—a delightful way to enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells

Creating a delightful dish from your Thanksgiving leftovers can be a breeze with these helpful tips!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Incorporating fresh herbs or veggies can elevate the flavor profile of your stuffed shells, making them feel vibrant and new rather than just a repeat of yesterday’s meal.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Sometimes leftovers can lose their initial zest, so don’t hesitate to adjust the salt, pepper, or even add a dash of your favorite spices to enhance the dish.

• Mix Up the Cheese: While cheddar is delicious, consider mixing in other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a creamier texture and different flavor dimensions.

• Make Ahead: If you’re short on time, prepare the filling and stuff the shells in advance. Just cover and refrigerate; when you’re ready to eat, simply top with gravy and cheese before baking.

• Freeze for Later: These stuffed shells freeze beautifully! Assemble them, then freeze before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, bake directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How to Serve Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells

Serving up your stuffed shells with flair can make all the difference! Here are some ideas to present this comforting meal beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes on top just before serving gives an exciting kick.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper, roasted Brussels sprouts offer a crispy texture that complements the softness of the stuffed shells.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread pairs perfectly as a side for scooping up any leftover gravy while adding an extra layer of comforting flavors.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the hearty stuffed shells with crisp freshness.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans provide a lovely crunch and bright color that enhances your plate without overpowering it.

Enjoy making this cozy dish from your Thanksgiving leftovers and impress your family and friends with your culinary creativity!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you have individual portions, consider using glass containers for easy reheating.

Freezing

• Assemble the stuffed shells, but do not bake them.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, label the container with the date and contents.

Reheating

• If frozen, thaw the shells in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.
• Optionally, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes to crisp up the cheese on top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers may have about this recipe.

Can I use other proteins instead of turkey for these stuffed shells?

Absolutely! While this recipe features leftover turkey, feel free to substitute with shredded chicken or even a plant-based protein if you prefer.

How can I make Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells lighter?

To lighten up this dish, consider using low-fat cheese and reducing the amount of gravy. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to increase fiber without adding many calories.

Can I prepare Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble these shells ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer before baking. This makes them a fantastic option for meal prep!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells as much as I do! They’re a comforting way to savor those holiday flavors while minimizing waste. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or reheated on a busy weeknight, these stuffed shells are sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. Happy cooking!