Name: Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 12 oz jumbo pasta shells; 2 lbs ground turkey; 7 oz green chiles; ¾ cup water; 1.25 oz taco seasoning; 1 cup salsa; 1½ cups Cheddar Cheese

This delightful twist on a classic Italian dish brings together the hearty flavors of Mexican cuisine. These Mexican stuffed shells with turkey are perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together.

Photos of Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey Recipe

One ingredient to note is green chiles. These can usually be found in the international or Hispanic section of your supermarket. Make sure to get the canned version, as fresh ones might bring a different level of heat.

Ingredients For Mexican Stuffed Shells With Turkey

jumbo pasta shells: Large pasta shells that are perfect for stuffing with delicious fillings.

ground turkey: A lean alternative to ground beef, providing a lighter taste while still being rich in protein.

green chiles: Adds a mild heat and unique flavor characteristic of Mexican cuisine.

water: Used to help mix and cook the turkey and seasoning.

taco seasoning: A blend of spices that gives the turkey a robust, Mexican-inspired flavor.

salsa: A tangy and spicy sauce made from tomatoes, onions, and peppers, used as the base in the baking dish.

cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top of the stuffed shells, adding a rich and gooey texture.

One reader, Corine Chiang says:

This Mexican stuffed shells with turkey recipe is a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes. The flavors blend perfectly, and the green chiles add a nice kick. It's easy to make and a hit with the whole family. Definitely adding this to our regular meal rotation!

Corine Chiang

Techniques Required for Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey Recipe

How to cook pasta shells: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, for 12 minutes until tender yet firm to the bite. Drain.

How to cook ground turkey: Combine the turkey, chopped green chiles, water, and taco seasoning in a large saucepan. Cook and stir for 8 to 10 minutes until the turkey is cooked through and the moisture is absorbed. Remove from heat.

How to bake: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the salsa in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking pan. Stuff each pasta shell with some of the turkey mixture, then arrange on top of the salsa in the baking dish. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, then cover the pan with aluminum foil. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

How To Make Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey

Enjoy a warm plate of stuffed shells loaded with filling turkey and tasteful taco seasoning for a hearty meal! Just cook it up in under two hours.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 55 minutes

Total: 1 hour 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

12ozjumbo pasta shells,1 box
2lbsground turkey
7ozgreen chiles,1 can, chopped
¾cupwater
1.25oztaco seasoning,1 package
1cupsalsa
1½cupscheddar cheese,shredded

Instructions

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta shells in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, for 12 minutes until tender yet firm to the bite. Drain.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Combine the turkey, chopped green chiles, water, and taco seasoning in a large saucepan.
Cook and stir for 8 to 10 minutes until the turkey is cooked through and the moisture is absorbed. Remove from heat.
Spread the salsa in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
Stuff each pasta shell with some of the turkey mixture, then arrange on top of the salsa in the baking dish.
Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, then cover the pan with aluminum foil.
Bake in the oven for 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 459.69kcal
Fat: 17.80g
Saturated Fat: 7.22g
Trans Fat: 0.41g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.16g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.16g
Carbohydrates: 39.18g
Fiber: 2.91g
Sugar: 4.23g
Protein: 34.99g
Cholesterol: 103.49mg
Sodium: 778.53mg
Calcium: 212.42mg
Potassium: 603.65mg
Iron: 2.58mg
Vitamin A: 110.21µg
Vitamin C: 60.77mg

Technique Tip for Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey Recipe

To ensure the pasta shells hold their shape and are easier to stuff, cook them just until they are al dente. This means they should be tender but still firm to the bite. Overcooking can make them too soft and prone to tearing.

Time-Saving Tips for Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey Recipe

Prepare the filling in advance: Cook the ground turkey mixture the night before and store it in the fridge.

Use pre-cooked pasta shells: Buy pre-cooked jumbo pasta shells to skip the boiling step.

Ready-made salsa: Opt for store-bought salsa to save time on prep.

Shredded cheese: Purchase pre-shredded cheddar cheese to avoid grating it yourself.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Substitute Ingredients For Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey Recipe

jumbo pasta shells - Substitute with manicotti shells: Manicotti shells are similar in size and can hold the filling well.
ground turkey - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken has a similar texture and mild flavor that works well with the other ingredients.
green chiles - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers provide a similar mild heat and can be chopped to match the texture of green chiles.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds more flavor compared to plain water.
taco seasoning - Substitute with homemade spice mix: A mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder can replicate the flavors of store-bought taco seasoning.
salsa - Substitute with diced tomatoes with green chiles: Diced tomatoes with green chiles add a similar texture and flavor profile to salsa.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack cheese melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the dish.

Presenting Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey

Use elegant plating: Arrange the stuffed shells in a circular pattern on a large, white plate to create a visually appealing presentation. Ensure each shell is evenly spaced and facing the same direction.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness by sprinkling finely chopped cilantro or parsley over the top of the stuffed shells. This not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile.
Drizzle with sauce: Create a beautiful contrast by drizzling a thin line of sour cream or avocado crema around the edge of the plate. This adds a creamy texture and a burst of flavor.
Add a side of salsa: Place a small ramekin of salsa on the side of the plate. This allows diners to add extra salsa as they desire, enhancing the overall experience.
Incorporate texture: Add a crunchy element by sprinkling some crushed tortilla chips or toasted pumpkin seeds over the top of the stuffed shells. This adds a delightful contrast to the soft pasta and turkey mixture.
Use vibrant colors: Ensure the cheddar cheese is melted to a golden brown, creating a visually appealing contrast with the green chiles and red salsa. This makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
Serve with a lime wedge: Add a wedge of lime on the side of the plate. This not only adds a pop of color but also allows diners to squeeze fresh lime juice over the stuffed shells, enhancing the flavors.
Highlight the main ingredient: Make sure the ground turkey is visible and prominent in each stuffed shell. This showcases the main protein and ensures it is the star of the dish.
Create height: Stack a few stuffed shells on top of each other in the center of the plate to add dimension and height. This creates a more dynamic and professional presentation.
Finish with a touch of elegance: Lightly dust the edge of the plate with smoked paprika or chili powder for a final touch of sophistication and a hint of spice.

Essential Tools for Making Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey

Large pot: Used to boil the pasta shells until they are tender yet firm to the bite.
Colander: Essential for draining the cooked pasta shells after boiling.
Large saucepan: Necessary for cooking the ground turkey, green chiles, water, and taco seasoning together.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the turkey mixture while it cooks.
9 x 13-inch baking pan: The perfect size for arranging the stuffed pasta shells and baking them.
Aluminum foil: Used to cover the baking pan to ensure the cheese melts evenly and the dish stays moist.
Oven: Preheated to 350 degrees F, this is where the stuffed shells are baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the water, salsa, and cheddar cheese accurately.
Mixing bowl: Handy for combining ingredients if needed, although not explicitly mentioned in the recipe.
Knife: Useful for chopping the green chiles if they are not pre-chopped.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the green chiles.
Serving spoon: Perfect for serving the finished Mexican stuffed shells.

Storing and Freezing Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey

Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for Mexican stuffed shells with turkey:

Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or mushy.
To store in the refrigerator:
- Place the cooled stuffed shells in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place the desired number of shells in a microwave-safe dish and microwave until heated through, or cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes.
To freeze:
- Place the cooled stuffed shells in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat, thaw the shells overnight in the refrigerator, then place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes, or until heated through.
If you have leftover turkey filling, you can store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To maintain the best quality and texture, avoid repeatedly freezing and thawing the stuffed shells. It's best to portion out the desired amount before freezing, so you can thaw and reheat only what you need.

How To Reheat Leftover Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover stuffed shells in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the shells from drying out.
If you prefer a crispier top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of reheating. You can also sprinkle some extra shredded cheese on top for added flavor and texture.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the stuffed shells in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the shells to become rubbery.
If you have a lot of leftover salsa or sauce in the dish, you can drain some of it before reheating to prevent the shells from becoming too soggy.
For a crispy bottom, you can reheat the stuffed shells in a skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or cooking spray to the pan, place the shells in a single layer, and cover with a lid. Heat for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through and the bottom is slightly crispy.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover stuffed shells, you can top them with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, a dollop of sour cream, or some diced avocado before serving.

Random Fact About Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey

A random fact about this recipe is that it combines elements of traditional Italian pasta dishes with Mexican flavors, creating a unique fusion. The use of taco seasoning and salsa gives the stuffed shells a zesty and spicy twist, making it a delightful and unexpected culinary experience.

Is Making Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey Economical for Home Cooking?

This Mexican stuffed shells with turkey recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using ground turkey instead of beef reduces costs while maintaining flavor. The ingredients are simple and affordable, with pasta shells, green chiles, and cheddar cheese being budget-friendly. The overall verdict for this recipe is a solid 8 out of 10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD, making it an economical yet delicious option for dinner.

Are Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for Mexican stuffed shells with turkey has some healthy elements, but there is room for improvement. The use of ground turkey instead of ground beef reduces the saturated fat content, which is beneficial for heart health. The inclusion of green chiles adds a boost of vitamin C and other nutrients. However, the recipe also contains a significant amount of cheese, which can be high in saturated fat and sodium.

To make this recipe healthier:

Use reduced-fat or low-fat cheddar cheese to decrease the saturated fat content
Opt for a low-sodium taco seasoning mix or make your own seasoning blend to control the sodium levels
Increase the vegetable content by adding diced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the turkey mixture
Choose a low-sugar, low-sodium salsa to reduce the overall sugar and salt intake
Use whole-grain pasta shells to increase the fiber content and provide additional nutrients

By incorporating more vegetables and using leaner proteins, you can create a more balanced and nutritious meal. Experiment with different spices and herbs to enhance the flavors without relying on excessive amounts of cheese or high-sodium seasonings. Serving the stuffed shells with a side salad or roasted vegetables can further increase the nutrient density of the dish, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal for the whole family.

Editor's Thoughts on Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey Recipe

This recipe for Mexican stuffed shells with turkey is a delightful fusion of Italian and Mexican cuisines. The use of ground turkey makes it a leaner option, while the green chiles and taco seasoning add a robust, spicy flavor. The salsa base keeps the dish moist and adds a tangy kick, perfectly complemented by the melted cheddar cheese on top. It's a hearty, comforting meal that's easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd. Baking the stuffed shells ensures the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful dish.

Enhance Your Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mexican Street Corn Salad: Imagine a vibrant corn salad bursting with flavors of lime, cilantro, and a hint of chili powder. This delightful side dish will add a refreshing crunch to your Mexican stuffed shells and bring a fiesta to your taste buds.

Black Bean and Mango Salsa: Pair your stuffed shells with a zesty salsa that combines the earthiness of black beans with the tropical sweetness of mango. This colorful medley will provide a delightful contrast and elevate your meal to a whole new level.

Avocado and Tomato Salad: A simple yet elegant salad featuring creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes, dressed in a light vinaigrette. This side dish offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of your Mexican stuffed shells.

Spicy Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Add a touch of warmth and spice to your meal with roasted sweet potatoes seasoned with cumin, paprika, and a hint of cayenne pepper. These crispy, caramelized bites will complement the savory turkey filling perfectly.

Cilantro Lime Rice: Enhance your Mexican stuffed shells with a fragrant rice dish infused with the zesty flavors of cilantro and lime. This aromatic side will tie all the elements of your meal together beautifully.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey

Turkey Enchilada Casserole: Dive into layers of ground turkey, corn tortillas, enchilada sauce, and cheddar cheese. This dish is a fiesta in every bite, perfect for a family dinner.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with a savory mix of ground turkey, rice, tomato sauce, and spices. Baked to perfection and topped with melted cheese.

Turkey Taco Soup: A hearty and warming soup featuring ground turkey, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and tortilla chips.

Turkey Quesadillas: Crispy tortillas stuffed with ground turkey, cheddar cheese, and sautéed onions. Serve with salsa, guacamole, and a squeeze of lime.

Turkey And Black Bean Burritos: Soft flour tortillas wrapped around a filling of ground turkey, black beans, rice, and cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mini Peppers: Delight your guests with these vibrant stuffed mini peppers. Filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, herbs, and spices, these bite-sized treats offer a burst of flavor in every bite. The crunchy peppers provide a perfect contrast to the creamy filling, making them an irresistible appetizer. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an added touch of elegance.

Shrimp Ceviche Cups: Bring a taste of the coast to your table with shrimp ceviche cups. Fresh shrimp marinated in a zesty citrus blend with red onions, cilantro, and avocado create a refreshing and tangy appetizer. Serve the ceviche in crispy wonton cups for a delightful crunch. These cups are perfect for a light and flavorful start to any meal.

Desserts:

Churros with Chocolate Sauce: Imagine crispy, golden churros dusted with cinnamon sugar, paired with a rich, velvety chocolate sauce. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the soft, doughy interior of the churros is a delight. The chocolate sauce adds a luxurious touch, making every bite a perfect blend of textures and flavors. Serve them warm for an irresistible treat that will have everyone reaching for more.

Tres Leches Cake: Picture a light and airy cake soaked in a mixture of three milks: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. This tres leches cake is incredibly moist and tender, with a sweetness that is perfectly balanced. Topped with a fluffy layer of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, it’s a dessert that melts in your mouth. Each bite is a creamy, dreamy experience that transports you to a place of pure indulgence.

Why trust this Mexican Stuffed Shells with Turkey Recipe:

This recipe for Mexican stuffed shells with turkey is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings a unique twist to traditional pasta dishes. Using ground turkey makes it a healthier option, while the green chiles and taco seasoning add a burst of authentic Mexican taste. The combination of salsa and melted cheddar cheese creates a rich, comforting dish that is sure to please any crowd. Trust this recipe for its balance of wholesome ingredients and mouthwatering flavors, perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering.

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FAQ:

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey with ground beef, chicken, or even a meatless option like crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat substitute.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil until you're ready to bake.

What can I serve with these Mexican stuffed shells?

These stuffed shells pair well with a side of Mexican rice, a fresh green salad, or some refried beans. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top for extra flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or place them in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through.

Can I freeze the stuffed shells?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Just assemble the dish, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze. When you're ready to eat, bake it from frozen at 350 degrees F for about 45-50 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.