Hey there! If you’re like me and absolutely love a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that warms your heart, then boy, do I have a treat for you! Today, we’re diving into the world of *Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells*. These stuffed pasta shells are not only delicious, but they’re also fun to make. Trust me, your family will rave about this dish. Plus, the combination of garlic butter and Alfredo sauce is simply mouthwatering!
Nutritional Benefits
Let’s talk about some great things this recipe brings to the table! First off, chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in our bodies. By making it at home, you can control how much cheese and cream you use, allowing you to make it a bit healthier while still satisfying your cravings. Also, shells are a fun way to sneak in some veggie goodness. You can easily throw in some spinach or even roasted bell peppers, which brings extra nutrients without compromising the amazing flavor!
Adaptable Variations
- Go Veggie!: If you want to skip meat, consider using ricotta cheese blended with some sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty yet wholesome filling.
- Dairy-Free Option: You can substitute the Alfredo sauce with a dairy-free version. Coconut cream blends nicely for a rich texture without the dairy!
- Change Up the Protein: Swap chicken with shrimp or even cooked sausage for a fun flavor twist.
Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe
Ingredients
- 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant but not browned (about 1-2 minutes).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, sautéed garlic, and salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined.
- In a greased baking dish, spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce at the bottom. Stuff each shell with the chicken mixture and arrange them in the dish.
- Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
- Once done, let it cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time. Just assemble everything and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight before baking.
- Extra Creamy: If you love extra creaminess, mix some extra Alfredo sauce into the filling before stuffing.
- Pasta Cook Time: Be careful not to overcook the pasta when boiling; it should be al dente since it will cook further in the oven!
- Serving suggestion: Serve these stuffed shells with a side salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal.
Equipment Needed
Here’s the essential gear you will need to whip up this tasty dish:
- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A skillet for sautéing garlic
- A mixing bowl for combining the filling
- A greased baking dish (9×13 works great)
- A spatula for spreading the sauce
- A measuring cup and spoons
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use regular pasta instead of jumbo shells? Yes, you can use penne or rigatoni! Just adjust the amount of filling depending on the size.
- Is this dish freezer-friendly? Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked stuffed shells for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly.
- Can I make this without garlic? While garlic adds amazing flavor, you could skip it or substitute with garlic powder.
- How do I know when they’re done baking? The top should be golden and bubbly, and the cheese should be melted.
- Can I add vegetables to the filling? Yes! Sautéed spinach or sliced mushrooms can enhance both flavor and nutrition!
So, are you ready to make these delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells? I can’t wait to hear how they turn out for you! Don’t forget to share your culinary adventures and follow me on Pinterest for more delightful recipes that fill the world with flavor and joy!
