Pin A festive twist on classic stuffed shells featuring a creamy, protein-rich cottage cheese Alfredo sauce, spinach, and turkey, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe quickly became a favorite in my family because it combines comfort food with a healthy boost of protein and vibrant flavors.
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 
My family loves gathering around the dinner table to enjoy this meal especially during the holidays when everyone has time to share stories and laughter.
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 Check pasta and cheese labels for allergens or gluten if sensitive
Nutritional Information
Calories 335 Total Fat 10 g Carbohydrates 32 g Protein 28 g per serving
Pin This recipe is perfect for making ahead and freezing for a quick festive meal anytime you want.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the filled shells and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking to save time on the day of serving.
- → Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Omit the turkey and add extra spinach or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
- → What type of pasta shells work best?
Jumbo pasta shells are ideal as they provide ample space for the creamy filling and hold their shape well during baking.
- → How can I adjust the flavors in the Alfredo sauce?
The sauce blends cottage cheese, cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, and nutmeg. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste for a balanced creamy flavor.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
A crisp green salad and crusty bread complement the creamy pasta shells, balancing the richness for a complete meal.
- → Can I substitute turkey with other proteins?
Yes, ground chicken or lean sausage can be used as alternatives to turkey for a different flavor profile.