Turkey and Broccoli Stuffed Shells

Name: Turkey and Broccoli Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 cup cooked ground turkey; 1 cup chopped broccoli florets (steamed); 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

Highlighted under: One Pot Meals | Easy Comfort

When I first tried making Turkey and Broccoli Stuffed Shells, I was amazed at how a simple recipe could be both nutritious and incredibly satisfying. I love the combination of flavors, with succulent ground turkey blending perfectly with fresh broccoli and creamy cheese. Each shell is a treasure trove of taste, and the best part is how easy they are to prepare! This dish has since become a regular in our home, showing that wholesome meals can indeed be indulgent without a fuss.

Created by

Wendys

Last updated on 2026-02-20T14:13:18.546Z

Last month, I had some leftover turkey breast and a bunch of broccoli sitting in my fridge. I decided to combine them in a new way and the result was a delicious success! The stuffed shells came out flavorful and vibrant, thanks to the balance of the turkey and the earthy crunch of the broccoli, all enveloped in a cheesy embrace.

One tip I picked up while perfecting this recipe is to slightly undercook the broccoli before adding it to the filling. It should still be bright green but tender enough to blend well with the creamy cheese. This ensures that the broccoli maintains a nice texture in the final dish.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and healthy, packed with lean protein and veggies
Cheesy goodness in every bite, thanks to ricotta and mozzarella
A family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will love

The Role of Cheese

Cheese not only enhances the flavor of Turkey and Broccoli Stuffed Shells but also contributes to the creamy texture that makes each bite irresistible. Ricotta brings lightness and moisture, while the mozzarella provides that stretchy, melty quality we crave. Grated Parmesan adds a sharp note that balances the richness of these cheeses. Be sure to use full-fat or whole milk versions for the best melt and texture; low-fat cheeses can result in a grainy consistency.

When selecting your cheeses, consider experimenting with variations. For a tangier bite, you could substitute goat cheese for part of the ricotta, or for added depth, incorporate a blend of aged mozzarella and provolone. Just remember that the moisture content varies, so if substituting, keep an eye on your filling's consistency—it should be thick enough to adhere to the pasta without leaking.

Stuffing Technique

Efficiently stuffing the shells can make your prep time significantly shorter and less messy. Using a pastry bag or a Ziploc bag with the corner snipped off can help you pipe the turkey and broccoli mixture into each pasta shell easily. Aim to fill them generously but avoid overstuffing, as this can lead to a messy bake and shells not holding their shape.

If you find some shells are cracked or broken, don’t throw them away! Those can be placed at the bottom of your baking dish to act as a cushion for the filled shells on top. This also adds flavor as they soak up the marinara sauce during baking. Check your pasta carefully after cooking; overcooked shells can tear easily, so al dente is key!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Turkey and Broccoli Stuffed Shells are a perfect candidate for meal prep or make-ahead meals. You can prepare the filling and stuff the shells a day in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover the dish well to prevent drying out. If you're looking to freeze them, do so before baking. Assemble the shells in a freezer-safe dish with sauce, cover tightly, and they can last up to two months.

When ready to bake from frozen, you’ll want to add an extra 10-15 minutes to your cook time, ensuring they're heated through. Alternatively, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking for a quicker option. These shells reheat well in the oven or microwave, making them an excellent choice for easy leftovers during the week.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create delicious Turkey and Broccoli Stuffed Shells.

For the Stuffed Shells

12 large pasta shells
1 cup cooked ground turkey
1 cup chopped broccoli florets (steamed)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

Make sure you have everything before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Turkey and Broccoli Stuffed Shells.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground turkey, steamed broccoli, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then mix until well combined.

Fill the Shells

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take each pasta shell and fill it with the turkey and broccoli mixture. Place filled shells in a baking dish lined with marinara sauce.

Bake

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the filled shells and sprinkle with additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Allow the stuffed shells to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade chicken and broccoli stuffed shells with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired!

Once you've completed all the steps, your delicious Turkey and Broccoli Stuffed Shells are ready to be savored!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding some diced red bell pepper or spinach to the filling for extra color and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed shells can be paired beautifully with a light side salad or some garlic bread for a more substantial meal. A fresh arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the cheese and turkey, cutting through the heaviness and offering a refreshing contrast.

For an added kick of flavor, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil or parsley over the final dish just before serving. It not only enhances the aesthetic but brings a burst of freshness that elevates the entire meal.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with the filling! Swap out the broccoli for other vegetables like spinach, kale, or even roasted zucchini to mix up the flavor profiles. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider using a combination of sautéed mushrooms and spinach with extra ricotta for richness.

To make it a bit more decadent, add some crumbled feta cheese to the stuffing for tang or even a layer of pesto under the marinara sauce for an herbaceous twist. These variations can keep your stuffed shells exciting and tailored to different dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Ground chicken or beef can be substituted if you prefer.

→ Are these stuffed shells freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before or after baking; just ensure to wrap them tightly.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can skip the meat and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or use a meat substitute.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the shells in advance, then bake them when you're ready.