Description
These creamy million dollar chicken Alfredo stuffed shells are packed with a rich, cheesy filling and topped with homemade Alfredo sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, this comforting pasta bake is easy to make and always a hit.
Ingredients
- 20–24 jumbo pasta shells (dry, about 6–7 ounces)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or finely chopped (rotisserie chicken recommended)
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add jumbo pasta shells and cook for 2 minutes less than package directions (about 8-9 minutes) until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly.
- If making homemade Alfredo sauce: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring gently (do not boil). Whisk in Parmesan cheese, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer until melted and smooth, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
- Using a spoon, fill each cooked shell generously with the chicken cheese mixture.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread about 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce. Pour remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle with mozzarella and extra Parmesan if desired.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown at the edges. (Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispy top.)
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Undercook shells slightly so they hold their shape when stuffed. Use room temperature cheeses for a smoother filling. Cover with foil for the first part of baking to keep shells moist, then uncover for a golden, bubbly top. Leftovers reheat well and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 3 stuffed shells
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 820
- Fat: 23
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 29
Keywords: chicken Alfredo stuffed shells, creamy pasta bake, easy dinner, comfort food, rotisserie chicken, cheesy stuffed shells, family meal, Italian casserole