Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells: Creamy Delight

Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells yet, you’re in for a creamy, cheesy treat! I remember the first time I made these delightful shells; it was a chilly evening, and I wanted something comforting that would warm both my heart and my belly.

The moment I pulled that bubbling dish out of the oven, the rich aroma of garlic and melted cheese filled my kitchen, and I just knew I had created something special. Trust me, each bite is like a hug from the inside. These shells are not just another pasta dish; they’re generously stuffed with tender chicken and a luscious blend of cheeses, all swimming in a dreamy alfredo sauce. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household

 

 

Ingredients List

• 12 large pasta shells
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups alfredo sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until they’re al dente. You don’t want them too soft since they’ll bake a bit more later!

While your shells are cooking, grab a skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s nice and bubbly, toss in the minced garlic. Oh, the smell is going to be heavenly! Sauté it for about a minute, just until it’s fragrant—this is where the magic begins. Next, add in your shredded chicken and Italian seasoning, stirring everything together until it’s well combined.

Now, here’s where it gets creamy—mix in the ricotta, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You want that filling to be bursting with flavor!

Time to stuff those shells! Carefully spoon the chicken and cheese mixture into each shell. In a baking dish, spread half of the alfredo sauce on the bottom to keep everything nice and saucy. Place the stuffed shells in the dish and pour the remaining sauce on top. Finish it off by sprinkling the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over everything.

Bake in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Trust me, the wait will be worth it when you see that cheesy goodness! Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy your delicious creation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a comforting, creamy dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
• Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich, flavorful filling with tender chicken and a blend of delicious cheeses.
• Versatile—feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or different cheese types.
• A great make-ahead option; you can prep it in advance and bake when you’re ready!
• Leftovers (if you have any!) are just as tasty the next day, making for a delightful lunch.

Tips for Success

To ensure your garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells come out perfectly every time, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t overcook your pasta shells—they should be al dente since they’ll continue to cook in the oven. If you use rotisserie chicken, it saves time and adds great flavor. Remember to taste your filling before stuffing; you want that perfect balance of seasoning! If you like a little kick, try adding some red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for an extra zing.

Another pro tip: let the dish rest for about 5 minutes after baking before serving. This helps the cheesy goodness set slightly, making it easier to serve and enjoy. Lastly, don’t hesitate to experiment! Toss in some spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. Cooking should be fun, so make this recipe your own!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to comfort food, it’s always nice to know what you’re getting in terms of nutrition. Each serving of these scrumptious garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells is packed with flavor and heartiness. Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional values:

• Calories: 600
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 800mg

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you choose. So, if you swap out cheeses or add veggies, just be aware that the nutrition count will shift a bit. But hey, when it tastes this good, it’s all about balance, right?

FAQ Section

Can I use different types of cheese in the stuffed shells?
Absolutely! You can mix and match cheeses based on your preferences. Try using provolone, fontina, or even a little goat cheese for a unique twist!

Can I make garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells up to a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they heat through.

What can I serve with these stuffed shells?
These shells pair wonderfully with a simple green salad and garlic bread. A light side of steamed veggies works well too, balancing out the richness of the dish.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Definitely! Just make sure to store them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What if I don’t have alfredo sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade alfredo sauce using butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, or even use a different creamy sauce like a cheese sauce if you prefer!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells is super easy! Just let them cool completely first, then transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save them for longer, they freeze beautifully! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll last for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them straight from the fridge or freezer. For refrigerated shells, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. If they’re frozen, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight first, then follow the same reheating instructions. You might want to add a splash of extra alfredo sauce on top before reheating to keep them nice and creamy. Enjoy every last bite!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your garlic butter chicken alfredo stuffed shells experience, I highly recommend serving them alongside a crisp green salad. A simple mix of romaine, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish beautifully. You could also whip up some garlic bread for that extra touch of indulgence; the buttery, toasty goodness is perfect for soaking up any leftover alfredo sauce on your plate!

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach on the side, which not only adds color but also a pop of nutrition to your meal. Trust me, these sides will take your dinner to the next level!

Print