Festive Thanksgiving Stuffed Shells 🦃 Quick, Cheesy & Perfect for Family Feasts!

Table of Contents: Thanksgiving Stuffed Shells

Thanksgiving Stuffed Shells

Looking for a delicious way to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers? These Thanksgiving Stuffed Shells combine all the best holiday flavors—tender turkey, savory stuffing, creamy sweet potatoes, and melted cheese—into one irresistible pasta dish. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners, this recipe transforms classic leftovers into a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. Whether you’re hosting a Friendsgiving or simply craving a taste of the season, these holiday stuffed shells are sure to become a new tradition!

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Introduction: Thanksgiving Stuffed Shells

There’s something magical about a dish that brings together all the flavors of Thanksgiving in one bite. These Thanksgiving Stuffed Shells do just that—jumbo pasta shells filled with shredded turkey, stuffing, mashed sweet potatoes, and melty cheese, all baked in a rich turkey gravy. It’s comfort food at its finest, with a festive twist that makes it perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or even a special weeknight meal.

If you’ve ever wondered what to do with leftover turkey and stuffing, this recipe is your answer. The combination of savory and slightly sweet fillings, paired with a creamy, cheesy topping, ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, since stuffed pasta Thanksgiving dishes can be prepped ahead, they’re a lifesaver for busy hosts.

Whether you’re serving these at a holiday feast or enjoying them as a cozy family meal, these holiday stuffed shells are guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!

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Alternate Names & Variations

This dish goes by many names, depending on what you fill it with! Some popular variations include:
– Leftover Turkey Stuffed Shells
– Holiday Pasta Shells
– Thanksgiving Pasta Bake

For a vegetarian twist, swap the turkey for sautéed mushrooms or butternut squash. You could also use mashed potatoes instead of sweet potatoes if preferred.

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Ingredients: Thanksgiving Stuffed Shells

Here’s what you’ll need for this comforting dish:

• – 24 uncooked jumbo pasta shells – The perfect vessel for holding all the delicious fillings.
• – 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese – Adds a gooey, melty texture.
• – 1 cup cubed cooked turkey – Use leftover Thanksgiving turkey or rotisserie chicken.
• – 1 cup cooked stuffing – Traditional herb stuffing works best.
• – 4 green onions, chopped – For a fresh, mild onion flavor.
• – 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes – Adds creaminess and a touch of sweetness.
• – ¼ teaspoon chili powder (optional) – For a subtle kick.
• – ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Enhances the savory depth.
• – 1 cup turkey gravy, warmed – Ties everything together.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep – Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Mix the Filling – In a large bowl, combine turkey, stuffing, mashed sweet potatoes, green onions, chili powder (if using), and half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

3. Stuff the Shells – Carefully spoon the filling into each shell, packing gently.

4. Layer & Bake – Spread half the gravy in a baking dish. Arrange stuffed shells seam-side up. Pour remaining gravy on top and sprinkle with remaining cheeses.

5. Bake Until Golden – Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Chef’s Tip: To prevent drying, keep shells covered while baking and add extra gravy if needed.

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Recipe Card Block

Prep Time: 20 min | Cook Time: 30 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 6 | Calories: ~320 per serving

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Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

– Perfect for Leftovers – Uses up Thanksgiving turkey, stuffing, and sweet potatoes in a creative way.
– Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food – The mix of textures and flavors makes it a hit at gatherings.
– Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble a day ahead and bake when ready.

Pro Tip: For extra richness, mix cream cheese into the filling or drizzle with browned butter before serving.

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Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

– Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Freeze: Wrap unbaked shells tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before baking.
– Reheat: Cover with foil and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

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People Also Ask: Thanksgiving Stuffed Shells

What are the best fillings for Thanksgiving stuffed shells?

The best fillings combine savory, sweet, and creamy elements. Turkey, stuffing, mashed sweet potatoes, and cheese create a balanced flavor. For variety, try adding cranberry sauce, spinach, or roasted squash.

Can you make stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the shells, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. For longer storage, freeze unbaked shells and thaw before cooking.

What sauce goes well with Thanksgiving stuffed shells?

Turkey gravy is classic, but marinara, Alfredo, or a creamy mushroom sauce also work. For a lighter option, drizzle with browned butter and sage.

How do you bake stuffed shells without drying them out?

Keep shells covered with foil for most of the baking time. Adding extra sauce and cheese on top helps retain moisture.

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Conclusion: Thanksgiving Stuffed Shells

These Thanksgiving Stuffed Shells are the ultimate way to enjoy holiday flavors in a comforting, cheesy pasta dish. Easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite. Give them a try and let us know how they turned out—we’d love to hear your variations!

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Happy cooking! ️

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