Name: Delicious Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells (If unavailable, try conchiglie.); 2 cups Turkey (Leftover turkey from the holiday feast.); 1 cup Mashed Potatoes (Homemade or store-bought.); 1 cup Diced Celery (Substitute with chopped bell peppers if desired.); 1 cup Diced Yellow Onion (Shallots can be used for a sweeter taste.); 2 cloves Minced Garlic (Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded) (Feel free to experiment with other cheeses.); 1 cup Gravy (Use your favorite version.); 1 cup Bread Stuffing (Leftover stuffing or seasoned breadcrumbs.); 1 tsp Salt (Adjust to taste.); 1 tsp Pepper (Adjust to taste.); 1/2 cup Extra Gravy (Drizzled on top for moisture.); 1 cup Additional Cheese (Your favorite cheese for topping.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of Thanksgiving leftovers wafting through the air, a brilliant idea struck me: how can I transform these treasured bits into something spectacular? Enter my Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells—perfectly fluffy jumbo shells generously packed with tender turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and hearty stuffing, all swathed in a blanket of gravy and melted cheese. This recipe not only gives a delicious life to our holiday remnants but also serves as a quick, cozy meal that warms the soul. It’s an effortless way to enjoy all the flavors of Thanksgiving while keeping food waste at bay. Are you ready to elevate your leftovers into a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive in!

Why are these stuffed shells a game-changer?

Comforting Harmony: These Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells bring all your holiday favorites into one dish, combining rich flavors that evoke warm memories.
Easy Assembly: With minimal prep and simple steps, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
Versatile Options: Customize the filling with your favorite cheeses or add in veggies like spinach for an extra nutritional boost—endless possibilities await!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This recipe is sure to impress family and friends, turning leftovers into a delightful shared experience that sparks joy.
Zero Waste Wonder: You can feel good about reducing food waste while still treating yourself to a delicious and nourishing meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells Ingredients

For the Filling

Jumbo Pasta Shells – These are your savory vessels; if unavailable, try using conchiglie for a delightful twist.
Turkey – The star of the dish; to keep it easy, use your leftover turkey from the holiday feast—chicken works too if you’re in a pinch.
Mashed Potatoes – Adds a creamy texture and flavor; opt for homemade or store-bought to suit your schedule.
Diced Celery – This adds a crunchy freshness; substitute with finely chopped bell peppers for a unique flavor boost.
Diced Yellow Onion – Enhances overall flavor; shallots are a lovely swap for a sweeter taste.
Minced Garlic – Infuses the filling with aromatic goodness; in a hurry? Garlic powder works just as well!
Cheddar Cheese (shredded) – Brings richness and a gooey texture; feel free to experiment with fontina or mozzarella for a twist.
Gravy – Keeps everything moistened and flavorful; use your favorite homemade or store-bought version.
Bread Stuffing – Adds delightful texture; leftover stuffing from your Thanksgiving spread is perfect here, or use seasoned breadcrumbs as an alternative.
Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance flavor; adjust to your personal taste.

For Baking

Extra Gravy – This drizzled on top enhances moisture during baking and infuses every bite with flavor.
Additional Cheese – A sprinkle of your favorite cheese for that bubbling, golden finish is always encouraged—don’t be shy!

These Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells are a delicious way to utilize your holiday leftovers while creating a cozy meal that the whole family will love. Let’s make the most out of those delicious remnants!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 1.5-quart baking dish with a touch of cooking spray or butter. This ensures that your Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells won’t stick during baking and will come out beautifully golden.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the jumbo pasta shells and cook for 8-9 minutes, until al dente. After draining the shells, rinse them under cool water to halt the cooking process, allowing them to stay firm enough for stuffing later.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the leftover turkey, warmed mashed potatoes, diced onion, diced celery, and minced garlic. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until the mixture is well combined. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring that the flavors of the filling pop!

Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Spread about 3/4 cup of gravy evenly over the bottom of the greased baking dish. Using a medium cookie scoop, gently fill each pasta shell with the turkey and mashed potato mixture, placing the filled shells side by side in the dish. This ensures every shell is tightly packed with the rich flavors of your Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells.

Step 5: Top and Bake
Once all the shells are nicely arranged, drizzle any remaining gravy over the top, followed by the rest of the shredded cheese and any leftover stuffing. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden, creating a delightful layer of melty goodness.

Step 6: Serve
After baking, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving warm. These Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells are a comforting meal that showcases the delightful flavors of your holiday feast!

How to Store and Freeze Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells

Fridge: Keep your stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures they stay fresh and ready for quick meals.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, or until heated through, to enjoy the comforting flavors of your Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells.

Airtight Storage: Always use airtight containers or wraps to prevent freezer burn and maintain the delicious taste of your Thanksgiving leftovers!

Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells Variations

Feel free to get creative with your stuffed shells and make this recipe your own with delightful twists and substitutions!

Chicken Substitute: Swap leftover turkey for cooked chicken for a lighter option that still packs protein.
Cheese Variety: Use mozzarella or gruyère for different flavor profiles—each brings a unique creaminess that complements the turkey.
Veggie Boost: Add chopped spinach or kale to the filling for a green nutritional punch and added texture.
Gluten-Free: Replace jumbo pasta shells with gluten-free pasta or zucchini slices for a fresh, low-carb option.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a spicy twist that will tingle your taste buds.
Creamy Upgrade: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream to the filling for extra richness and a new layer of flavor.
Different Dressings: Instead of gravy, try a homemade béchamel sauce to drizzle over the shells—it’s a creamy alternative that adds sophistication.
Herb Infusion: Enhance flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme or sage to the filling, bringing that classic Thanksgiving aroma into every bite.

Explore these suggestions, and don’t hesitate to adjust based on what you have in your pantry. These variations can elevate your leftovers beautifully while keeping your meal wholesome and satisfying! If you’re looking for a fresh salad to pair with your stuffed shells, consider making a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Expert Tips for Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells

Packing The Filling: Ensure you’re filling each shell generously but don’t overstuff; this prevents tearing and ensures a delightful bite of leftover turkey goodness!
Pasta Cooking Time: Cook the jumbo shells just al dente. If they’re too soft, they won’t hold up well when stuffed and baked.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheese blends; mixing mozzarella for stretchiness with the richness of cheddar can elevate your stuffed shells experience!
Gravy Layering: Don’t skip the bottom layer of gravy—this keeps the shells moist while baking and infuses extra flavor into every bite of your Thanksgiving leftovers!
Adding Veggies: Boost nutrition by folding in spinach or kale into the filling, but make sure they’re finely chopped to combine seamlessly with the leftover turkey and stuffing.
Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare these stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate; simply adjust the baking time when cooking from cold for a quick weeknight meal!

What to Serve with Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells

Elevate your meal by surrounding these delightful stuffed shells with complementary tastes and textures that make every bite memorable.

Simple Green Salad: A refreshing side that adds a crunchy contrast and vibrant colors to your meal, making it feel light and balanced.
Garlic Bread: This crisp, buttery delight provides a satisfying crunch, perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy. Plus, who can resist that garlicky aroma?

Pairing a salad with your stuffed shells not only balances the richness but also enhances your dining experience with a pop of freshness.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and crispy texture create an excellent counterpoint to the creamy filling, adding depth to your meal.
Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This decadent dish offers a luxurious and savory flavor profile that beautifully complements the stuffed shells.
Smooth Tomato Basil Soup: The acidity of the tomato soup cuts through the richness of the cheese while the basil notes bring freshness, creating a harmonious pairing.
Classic Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the meal’s flavors, as its crispness elevates the comforting nature of the stuffed shells.
Pumpkin Pie: Finish off with a slice of this fall favorite—a sweet ending that perfectly rounds out the flavors of your Thanksgiving-inspired feast.

Each of these pairings enhances your Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells, creating a memorable dining experience that celebrates the spirit of the holiday!

Make Ahead Options

These Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance; simply prepare the filling and stuff the shells as directed, then cover tightly with plastic wrap. To keep everything fresh and delicious, refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, just pop them in a preheated oven and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if baked directly from the fridge. This way, you can enjoy a comforting, hearty meal on busy weeknights, without sacrificing flavor or quality!

Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right turkey for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting the turkey, look for leftover turkey that is moist and devoid of dark spots or an off smell. Ensure it’s shredded into small pieces to easily mix with the other filling ingredients. If you don’t have turkey, cooked chicken is a great substitute—just be mindful of the flavor profile, as turkey often has a richer taste that complements the dish beautifully.

What is the best way to store my leftover stuffed shells?
Very! Store your leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Stuffed Shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cool before sealing to preserve their freshness. If you need to store them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months—just wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.

How can I freeze the stuffed shells properly?
Certainly! To freeze your stuffed shells, start by assembling the dish as instructed but don’t bake it yet. Cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil for extra protection. Be sure to label it with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes for a deliciously cozy meal.

What if my stuffed shells are falling apart or not holding up?
I understand how frustrating that can be! If your shells seem fragile, ensure they’re cooked only al dente—this helps them maintain their shape while being stuffed. Also, when filling, avoid overstuffing the shells, leading to bursting. Ensuring that everything is well blended before stuffing can also prevent the shells from tearing during assembly.

Are there any dietary restrictions to be aware of?
Yes, indeed! This recipe is egg-free, nut-free, and peanut-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. However, it’s always wise to check your gravy and cheese for hidden allergens. If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, consider providing a separate vegetarian or dairy-free cheese option to keep everyone included.