Creamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe
Introduction
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a comforting and delicious meal that combines tender pasta shells stuffed with savory chicken and cheese, all baked in a creamy Alfredo sauce. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion when you want something cozy yet impressive.
Ingredients
- 20 large pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 3 cups Alfredo sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly so they are easy to handle.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese (if using), half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the filling.
- Step 3: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of Alfredo sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Step 4: Carefully fill each pasta shell with the chicken and cheese mixture, and arrange them in a single layer in the baking dish.
- Step 5: Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Step 6: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 7: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add minced garlic or Italian seasoning to the chicken mixture.
- Swap chicken for cooked spinach or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Use homemade Alfredo sauce for a richer taste.
- Make ahead by assembling everything and refrigerating overnight; bake when ready to serve.
Storage
Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until warm.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen pasta shells for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or dried large pasta shells because frozen shells may become mushy after baking. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain well before stuffing.
What type of chicken works best for the filling?
Cooked, shredded chicken breast or rotisserie chicken works well. Using pre-cooked chicken saves time and ensures the filling is tender and flavorful.
PrintCreamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe
Delicious Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells combine tender pasta shells filled with a creamy chicken and cheese mixture, baked to perfection with rich Alfredo sauce for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 large pasta shells
Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta Shells: Boil large pasta shells in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Prepare Filling: In a bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Stuff Shells: Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the chicken and cheese mixture using a spoon.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is golden.
- Serve: Let the stuffed shells rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Feel free to add spinach or mushrooms to the filling for added flavor and nutrition.
- For a lighter option, substitute half the cheeses with low-fat versions.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
Keywords: Chicken Alfredo, Stuffed Shells, Baked Pasta, Italian Dinner, Creamy Chicken Pasta
