Alfredo Turkey Shell Pasta Bake

• 12 oz dried jumbo pasta shells
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. 3 In a large skillet, cook turkey until browned and cooked through; drain excess fat.
4. 4 In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour to make a roux, stirring constantly for 1 minute.
5. 5 Gradually whisk in heavy cream, bringing to a gentle simmer while stirring until thickened.
6. 6 Stir in Parmesan, garlic, black pepper, salt, basil, and nutmeg until cheese is melted.
7. 7 Combine turkey and alfredo sauce in a large bowl. Add pasta shells and mix well.
8. 8 Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese.
9. 9 Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
10. 10 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Saucepan
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Whisk

Variations

• Add cooked diced ham for a ham and turkey combo.
• Use whole wheat pasta shells for a healthier twist.

Substitutions

• If you can't find jumbo shells, use penne or rigatoni.
• Substitute ground chicken for turkey.

Pairings

• Steamed broccoli
• A light white wine

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra richness, stir in 1/4 cup of cream cheese with the Parmesan.
• Add a handful of spinach or diced tomatoes for a veggie boost.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake covered at 350°F for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake another 15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp Caesar salad.
• Pair with garlic bread for a complete meal.

FAQ