Creamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe
Introduction
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are a comforting and creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for family dinners. This recipe combines tender pasta shells filled with savory chicken and rich Alfredo sauce, topped with melted cheese for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and let cool slightly.
- Step 2: In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with 1 cup of Alfredo sauce. Spoon the mixture into each pasta shell, filling them generously.
- Step 3: Spread the remaining Alfredo sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the filled shells on top in a single layer.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the stuffed shells.
- Step 5: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add chopped garlic or Italian herbs to the chicken mixture before stuffing the shells.
- Use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a richer taste.
- Substitute cooked spinach or mushrooms in the filling to add a vegetable boost.
- Leftover stuffed shells freeze well; freeze before baking and bake straight from frozen, adding extra baking time.
Storage
Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions covered until hot.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds great flavor while saving prep time.
Is it necessary to pre-cook the pasta shells?
Yes, cooking the shells until al dente ensures they soften properly during baking and hold the filling well.
PrintCreamy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe
Delicious Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells featuring tender pasta shells filled with seasoned chicken and creamy Alfredo sauce, topped with melted cheese for a comforting Italian-American baked pasta dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Pasta
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 1/2 cups Alfredo sauce
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Pasta Shells: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken with 1 1/2 cups Alfredo sauce, mixing thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly.
- Fill the Shells: Carefully spoon the chicken and Alfredo mixture into each cooked pasta shell until filled.
- Assemble the Dish: Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish, placing them close together to prevent tipping.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the filled shells.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled stuffed shells for 25 to 30 minutes or until the cheese on top is fully melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let stand for a few minutes before serving to allow the dish to set and cool slightly.
Notes
- You can use store-bought Alfredo sauce for convenience or make your own for a richer flavor.
- For added flavor, mix some chopped fresh parsley or basil into the filling.
- Cooked chicken can be rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Ensure pasta shells are not overcooked to prevent them from breaking during stuffing.
- This recipe can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add extra baking time if baking from cold.
Keywords: Chicken Alfredo, Stuffed Shells, Baked Pasta, Italian Comfort Food
