Imagine transforming your traditional Thanksgiving leftovers into a stunning, Instagram-worthy dish that will make your guests' jaws drop! These Thanksgiving Stuffing Pasta Nests are not just a recipe; they're a culinary adventure that bridges comfort food with creative cooking. With crispy pasta edges, tender turkey-infused stuffing, and a hint of cranberry sweetness, this dish turns ordinary leftovers into an extraordinary meal that screams holiday innovation.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
- 2 cups stuffing mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the stuffing mix with chicken broth. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the stuffing to absorb the liquid and become slightly moistened.
- Add the shredded cooked turkey to the stuffing mixture and gently fold to combine. The mixture should be slightly sticky and hold together.
- Take the cooked pasta and carefully twirl small portions around a fork to create nest-like shapes. Place each pasta nest into a muffin tin cup, pressing gently to create a nest-like indentation.
- Spoon the turkey stuffing mixture into each pasta nest, filling them generously but not overflowing.
- If using, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of each nest for added flavor and golden color.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges of the pasta are crispy and the cheese (if using) is melted and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes to help the nests set.
- Carefully remove the pasta nests from the muffin tin using a small offset spatula or butter knife.
- Serve warm, garnishing each nest with a small dollop of cranberry sauce in the center for a classic Thanksgiving flavor profile.
Tips
- Use day-old pasta for better nest shaping and structural integrity
- Ensure your stuffing mixture is moist but not soggy - this helps the nests hold their shape
- Grease the muffin tin generously to prevent sticking
- For extra crispiness, use thin pasta like spaghetti or linguine
- Don't overcrowd the nests - give each one enough space to crisp up
- Let the nests rest for 5 minutes after baking to help them set
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for unique flavor profiles
- For a vegetarian version, replace turkey with roasted vegetables
- Fresh herbs like thyme or sage can elevate the stuffing's flavor
- Serve immediately for the best texture and presentation
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 309kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 30mg
