Savory Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

Craving a creamy and cheesy delight? You’re in the right place! My Savory Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells recipe packs jumbo pasta with mouthwatering chicken and rich Alfredo sauce. This dish is simple to make and perfect for family dinners or impressing friends. Join me on this flavorful journey, and let’s transform a few basic ingredients into a delicious meal that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

List of Essential Ingredients

For Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, gather these key ingredients:

– 20 jumbo pasta shells

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 cup ricotta cheese

– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

– 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated

– 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)

These ingredients create a rich and creamy filling that pairs well with the pasta.

Optional Seasonings

You can enhance the flavor with these seasonings:

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

These add depth and warmth to the dish. Adjust them based on your taste.

Garnish Suggestions

To finish your dish, consider these garnishes:

– Fresh parsley, chopped

This bright touch adds a nice color and freshness. It also makes the dish look more inviting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key to getting a nice, golden top.

2. Cook the pasta shells: Boil water in a large pot. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Drain them and let them cool a bit.

Filling the Shells

1. Mix the filling ingredients: In a big mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, half of the parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is mixed.

2. Stuffing the shells: Take a cooked shell and fill it with the chicken mixture. Don’t be shy! Pack it in there. Place the stuffed shell in a baking dish that has a layer of Alfredo sauce at the bottom.

Baking Instructions

1. Arrange in baking dish: After filling all the shells, line them up in the baking dish on top of the Alfredo sauce. Make sure they fit snugly.

2. Cover and bake: Pour the rest of the Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes.

3. Final baking step: Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes. This step helps the cheese get bubbly and golden.

Let it cool for a few moments before serving. Enjoy your savory chicken Alfredo stuffed shells!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

– How to cook pasta shells properly: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt. Cook the jumbo shells according to the package instructions. I like to cook them until they are just al dente. This way, they hold their shape when you stuff them. After cooking, drain them and let them cool slightly.

– Ensuring even filling distribution: When you mix your filling, make sure it is well combined. Use a spoon or a small ice cream scoop to fill each shell. Try to fill them all the same. This helps with even cooking and makes each bite delightful.

Sauce Recommendations

– Store-bought vs. homemade Alfredo sauce: You can use store-bought sauce for a quick meal. It saves time and still tastes great. However, homemade Alfredo sauce adds a special touch. If you choose to make your own, use heavy cream, butter, and parmesan for the best flavor.

– Adding extra flavors to the sauce: You can spice up your Alfredo sauce. Try adding garlic powder, fresh herbs, or a pinch of nutmeg. These small changes can make a big difference in taste.

Serving Suggestions

– Best side dishes to pair: A light salad with vinaigrette goes well with stuffed shells. Garlic bread also makes a great side. You can also serve steamed veggies for a healthy balance.

– Setting the table for a family dinner: Use a simple table setting. A nice tablecloth and some candles can create a warm atmosphere. Don’t forget to add plates and utensils for everyone. You can even include a small vase with fresh flowers to brighten the table.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can change the cheeses in this recipe to fit your taste. Try using gouda or cheddar for a unique twist. You can also mix in some cream cheese for extra creaminess. If you want to switch the protein, shredded turkey or even cooked shrimp works great too.

Dietary Options

If you need a gluten-free meal, use gluten-free pasta shells. They taste just as good! For a vegetarian version, swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or cooked lentils. Both options add flavor and texture.

Flavor Enhancements

Adding veggies boosts nutrition and taste. Try mixing in fresh spinach or diced bell peppers for a colorful dish. If you enjoy heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. This simple step gives your stuffed shells a nice spicy kick.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Chicken Alfredo stuffed shells fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and prevents drying out. They will last in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Before eating, check for any off smells or changes in texture.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the stuffed shells cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 to 2 hours. Once frozen, place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, they won’t stick together. They can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, transfer them to the fridge overnight to thaw.

Reheating Methods

You can reheat your stuffed shells in the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat to 350°F. Place the shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes. For the microwave, place a shell on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Add a splash of Alfredo sauce to keep it creamy. If you want the best taste, the oven is the way to go, but the microwave is quicker.

FAQs

What is the best way to cook jumbo pasta shells?

To cook jumbo pasta shells, boil water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Then, drop in the shells and cook them until they are al dente, which is about 10-12 minutes. Stir gently to avoid breakage. After cooking, drain the shells and rinse them with cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps them hold their shape.

– Use a large pot for more space.

– Stir gently to avoid cracking shells.

– Do not overcook; they should be firm.

Can I make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells ahead of time. To do this, fill the shells and place them in the baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and store it in the fridge. You can prepare them up to a day in advance. When ready to cook, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

– Fill shells and place in dish.

– Cover with foil and refrigerate.

– Add extra time to bake if cold.

How can I make this dish lighter in calories?

You can make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells lighter by making some simple swaps. Use whole wheat pasta shells instead of regular ones. Opt for low-fat ricotta and mozzarella cheese. You can also use a lighter Alfredo sauce or make your own with less cream. Adding vegetables like spinach can also boost nutrition without adding many calories.

– Choose whole wheat pasta.

– Use low-fat cheese options.

– Add veggies for extra nutrition.

This blog covers how to make Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells. We discussed the main ingredients, like jumbo pasta shells and cheeses. I shared tips for cooking, filling, and baking. You learned storage methods and tasty variations.

These stuffed shells are easy to customize for your taste. Enjoy making this dish for your family. You can wow them with your cooking skills!