Description
Creamy White Cheddar Turkey Shells is a rich and comforting one-pan pasta dinner featuring tender ground turkey, jumbo pasta shells, and a velvety white cheddar cheese sauce infused with garlic and herbs. This family-friendly meal comes together quickly and is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 12 oz medium pasta shells
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups freshly shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups baby spinach (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground turkey and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart until browned.
- Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Push the turkey mixture to one side of the skillet. Melt the butter, whisk in the flour, and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream until smooth.
- Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Stir in the white cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta shells and spinach, if using, and gently toss until evenly coated.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through and the spinach has wilted.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Freshly shredded white cheddar melts much smoother than pre-shredded cheese.
- Ground chicken can be substituted for ground turkey.
- Add mushrooms, broccoli, or peas for extra vegetables.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a splash of warm chicken broth or milk.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American