Pin this A festive twist on classic stuffed shells featuring a creamy, protein-rich cottage cheese Alfredo sauce, spinach, and turkey, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This dish brings a wonderful combination of flavors that our family looks forward to every Christmas.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 24 jumbo pasta shells
- Filling: 2 cups (450 g) low-fat cottage cheese, 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided, 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg, 1 1/2 cups (90 g) fresh baby spinach chopped, 1 1/2 cups (200 g) cooked turkey breast diced, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Cottage Cheese Alfredo Sauce: 1 1/2 cups (340 g) low-fat cottage cheese, 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk, 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons (30 g) light cream cheese, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, Salt and pepper to taste
- Garnish (optional): 1/4 cup (10 g) chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 cup (30 g) diced roasted red peppers (for a festive touch)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Step 3:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, milk, Parmesan cheese, light cream cheese, minced garlic, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper for the Alfredo sauce. Blend until completely smooth. Set aside.
- Step 4:
- In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan, egg, spinach, turkey, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper for the filling. Mix well.
- Step 5:
- Spread about 1/2 cup of the Alfredo sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Step 6:
- Fill each pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the filling and arrange them in the baking dish.
- Step 7:
- Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the shells. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese.
- Step 8:
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Step 9:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and diced roasted red peppers before serving.
Pin this This recipe always brings us together around the table during the holidays sharing love and warmth.
Required Tools
Large pot Blender or food processor Mixing bowls 9x13-inch baking dish Foil Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (pasta), milk, and egg
Nutritional Information
Calories: 335 Total Fat: 10 g Carbohydrates: 32 g Protein: 28 g
Pin this This dish combines ease and festive flavors to make your holiday meal memorable.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of cheese is used in the filling?
The filling includes low-fat cottage cheese, mozzarella, parmesan cheese, and light cream cheese in the sauce to create richness and texture.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the shells and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking to save time on serving day.
- → How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit the turkey and add extra spinach or sautéed mushrooms to maintain flavor and texture.
- → What are good substitutes for turkey in this dish?
Ground chicken or lean sausage can be used instead of turkey without losing the dish’s hearty character.
- → What temperature and time should I bake the shells?
Bake covered at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.