Pin Recipe A festive twist on classic stuffed shells featuring a creamy, protein-rich cottage cheese Alfredo sauce, spinach, and turkey, perfect for holiday gatherings.
I first served this dish at a family Christmas dinner and it was met with rave reviews from everyone, especially those looking for a healthier comfort food option.
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
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish
- Cook Pasta Shells:
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente Drain and set aside to cool slightly
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce:
- 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
- Make Filling:
- In a large bowl combine cottage cheese 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese Parmesan egg spinach turkey garlic powder Italian herbs salt and pepper Mix well
- Spread Sauce:
- Spread about 1/2 cup of the Alfredo sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish
- Fill Shells:
- Fill each pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the filling and arrange them in the baking dish
- Cover with Sauce:
- Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the shells Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- Bake:
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and diced roasted red peppers before serving
Pin Recipe This recipe always brings the family together around the table especially during holidays creating warm and memorable moments.
Required Tools
Large pot Blender or food processor Mixing bowls 9x13-inch baking dish Foil Measuring cups and spoons
Tips for Making Ahead
Assemble shells and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking to save time on the day of your event.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal your guests will love.
Pin Recipe These shells are the perfect balance of creamy and hearty making them an ideal festive entrée year after year.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes this dish high-protein?
Incorporating cottage cheese, turkey breast, and cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan boosts the protein content significantly.
- → Can the turkey be substituted?
Yes, ground chicken, lean sausage, or extra spinach and mushrooms work well as alternatives to turkey.
- → How should I prepare the Alfredo sauce?
Blend cottage cheese, milk, Parmesan, cream cheese, garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until smooth for a creamy sauce consistency.
- → What are some suitable garnishes?
Chopped fresh parsley and diced roasted red peppers add color and festive flavor as garnishes.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the shells and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking to save time on serving day.
- → What cooking tools are needed?
A large pot for pasta, blender or food processor for the sauce, mixing bowls, a 9x13-inch baking dish, foil, and measuring tools are necessary.