Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells – Easy Comfort Food Recipe

Introduction to the Dish

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that satisfies your craving for something creamy, cheesy, and savory, look no further than Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Pasta Shells. This dish combines the best elements of Italian-American cuisine—tender pasta, rich Alfredo sauce, and juicy garlic butter chicken—all baked to perfection under a blanket of melted cheese.

Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or cozy nights in, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Italian restaurant. The best part? It’s easier to make than you might think, and it can even be prepared ahead of time. In this article, we’ll walk you through every step to make this hearty, indulgent meal while providing expert tips, storage instructions, and delicious variations.

Why This Recipe Is a Comfort Food Favorite

There’s something universally satisfying about the combination of garlic, butter, and cheese. This recipe elevates traditional stuffed shells with the added flavor of seasoned chicken, turning it into a complete meal that’s rich in flavor and texture. Each shell is filled with a creamy ricotta-cheese blend, tender shredded chicken, and a hint of garlic, all baked in luxurious Alfredo sauce.

Highlights of the Dish

• Creamy, cheesy, and flavorful

• Hearty enough for a main course

• Great for make-ahead meals

• Customizable with various proteins or vegetarian options

• Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly

Ideal Occasions to Serve Stuffed Shells

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are versatile and perfect for:

• Sunday family dinners

• Holidays or potlucks

• Date night at home

• Meal prepping for the week

• Impressing dinner guests with minimal effort

Ingredients Needed

For the Shells

• 20–25 jumbo pasta shells

• Salt for boiling water

For the Garlic Butter Chicken

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Filling

• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (reserve some for topping)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 egg

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta

• Large skillet for cooking chicken

• Medium saucepan for Alfredo sauce

• Mixing bowls

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Boil the Pasta Shells

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente (about 9 minutes).

3. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

4. Lay shells out on a baking sheet or lightly oiled surface to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken

1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Stir in shredded chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

4. Cook for 3–4 minutes until warmed through and well coated in garlic butter.

Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella (reserving some for topping), Parmesan, egg, and parsley.

2. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Fold in the garlic butter chicken mixture.

4. Mix until thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.

3. Gradually whisk in heavy cream, stirring constantly.

4. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened.

5. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

6. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Stuffed Shells

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Spread a layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Stuff each pasta shell with 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken-cheese mixture.

4. Arrange the shells in the baking dish, filling side up.

5. Pour remaining Alfredo sauce over the top.

6. Sprinkle with reserved mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.

2. Bake for 25 minutes.

3. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells

Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Al dente shells hold up better during baking and stuffing. They’ll soften slightly more in the oven.

Use Fresh Garlic

Fresh garlic gives a more vibrant and aromatic flavor than pre-minced varieties.

Avoid Watery Filling

Drain any excess moisture from your chicken or ricotta to avoid a watery filling that could make the dish soggy.

Let the Dish Rest

Let the shells rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce set and makes serving easier.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Protein Swaps

• Shrimp: Sauté shrimp in garlic butter and use in place of chicken.

• Italian Sausage: Adds a spicier, meatier flavor.

• Tofu or Mushrooms: Great vegetarian substitutes.

Additional Mix-Ins

• Spinach (fresh or thawed frozen)

• Sun-dried tomatoes

• Chopped broccoli

• Caramelized onions

Cheese Substitutes

• Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter texture.

• Try fontina or provolone for a different flavor profile.

Make It Spicy

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a gentle kick.

Serving Suggestions

Ideal Sides

• Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks

• Caesar salad or arugula salad

• Roasted vegetables (zucchini, carrots, Brussels sprouts)

• A glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio

Garnishing Ideas

• Fresh chopped parsley or basil

• Shaved Parmesan

• Cracked black pepper

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigeration

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.

• Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Assemble the dish but do not bake.

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

• Freeze for up to 2 months.

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating Tips

• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.

• For smaller portions, use the microwave and cover with a damp paper towel.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 530

• Protein: 29g

• Carbohydrates: 28g

• Fat: 33g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sodium: 620mg

Note: Nutrition values vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is more than just delicious—it’s:

• Family-Friendly: Kids love it, and adults will fight for seconds.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the night before and bake fresh the next day.

• Freezer Friendly: Perfect for meal planning and batch cooking.

• Customizable: Use whatever protein or veggies you love.

• Restaurant-Quality at Home: Impress your guests without the high cost or hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and assemble the stuffed shells up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely. Assemble the shells, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes. Cottage cheese is a good substitute and provides a slightly lighter texture.

How do I prevent the shells from tearing?

Boil them just until al dente, rinse with cold water, and handle gently while stuffing.

Is there a gluten-free version?

Yes. Use gluten-free pasta shells and a gluten-free flour alternative in your Alfredo sauce.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Pasta Shells offer the perfect balance of indulgence and comfort. With tender pasta, rich garlic butter chicken, and creamy cheese, this recipe brings all the flavors of a gourmet Italian dish into your home kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining friends, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this versatile and customizable dish will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try tonight and watch it become one of your most-requested meals!

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