Are you tired of the same old ways to use up leftover turkey? Well, look no further! We've got a fantastic new recipe for you - Make-Ahead Turkey Manicotti. This turkey casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient, especially for those busy weeknights when you don't have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.
One of the great things about this Make-Ahead Turkey Manicotti recipe is that it can be prepared in advance. You can chill it for up to 24 hours before baking. This means you can do the bulk of the work on a weekend or a less busy day and then simply pop it in the oven when you're ready for dinner. It's a low - fuss solution that still gives you a restaurant - quality meal at home.
Let's start with the ingredients. For the manicotti shells, you'll need about 12 large ones. These will serve as the perfect vessel for all the delicious fillings. The filling is where the magic happens. You'll need cooked turkey, of course. Shred or dice it up into small pieces. Along with the turkey, add some ricotta cheese. Ricotta gives the filling a creamy texture and a rich flavor. You can also throw in some grated mozzarella cheese for that classic Italian cheesy goodness.
To add some freshness and flavor, include some chopped spinach. Spinach not only adds a pop of color but also a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals. You can use either fresh or frozen spinach, just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture if using frozen. Some minced garlic is also essential. Garlic adds a depth of flavor that ties all the ingredients together. A bit of dried oregano and basil will give the filling that authentic Italian taste.
Now, let's talk about the sauce. A good tomato sauce is the base for this casserole. You can use a store - bought marinara sauce or make your own from scratch. If you're making it from scratch, start with some canned tomatoes, either whole or crushed. Add some onion, garlic, and a splash of red wine for extra flavor. Simmer it on the stove until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
To assemble the Make - Ahead Turkey Manicotti, first, cook the manicotti shells according to the package instructions. Once they're cooked, let them cool slightly. In a large bowl, combine the turkey, ricotta, mozzarella, spinach, garlic, oregano, and basil. Mix it well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Then, using a spoon or a piping bag, stuff the filling into the manicotti shells.
Pour a thin layer of the tomato sauce into the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed manicotti shells in the dish, side by side. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top of the shells. Sprinkle some more mozzarella cheese on top for a cheesy, golden - brown crust when baked.
If you're making it ahead, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake the casserole for about 30 - 35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are starting to turn golden brown.
This Make - Ahead Turkey Manicotti is a versatile dish. You can serve it as a main course on its own, or pair it with a side salad for a more balanced meal. It's also great for leftovers. You can reheat it in the microwave or the oven for another delicious meal later in the week.
So, the next time you have leftover turkey, don't let it go to waste. Try this Make - Ahead Turkey Manicotti recipe. It's a delicious, convenient, and easy - to - make dinner that the whole family will love. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.
