Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

There are those meals that are truly a hug in a dish, and this one is absolutely at the top of the list. Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are pure comfort food with a side of decadence that will leave you savoring every bite. You’ve got the crispy shell filled with creamy, garlicky goodness and tender chicken, all coated in a luscious Alfredo sauce that will make your taste buds sing. Trust me, this dish is a total crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a cozy dinner party, or just treating yourself to something extra special, these stuffed shells hit all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

This recipe isn’t just about satisfying your hunger—it’s about creating moments. Here’s why you’re going to fall head over heels for these shells:

• Versatile: Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, these stuffed shells fit every occasion. Imagine coming home after a long day and knowing you’re only a few steps away from creamy, cheesy goodness. Or serving this dish at a party and having everyone ask, “What’s the secret?!”
• Budget-Friendly: It’s made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. No need to splurge on expensive stuff—this dish proves that great flavor doesn’t have to break the bank.
• Quick and Easy: The steps are so straightforward, even beginners can follow them. No need to stress over complicated techniques—this dish is foolproof and super rewarding.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your own twist! Toss in some spinach or mushrooms if you like, or switch up the protein to ground turkey or even shrimp. The possibilities are endless!
• Crowd-Pleasing: This one’s a guaranteed hit. It’s rich, flavorful, and hearty—a dish that everyone from kids to adults can agree on.

Ingredients in Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Let’s take a look at the magic behind this dish. These are the ingredients that will transform your dinner into something unforgettable:

• Chicken Breast: Tender, juicy chicken is the star here, providing the perfect amount of protein and flavor to balance out the creamy Alfredo.
• Large Pasta Shells: The shells are like little edible bowls, perfect for holding all that cheesy, garlicky goodness inside.
• Butter: The base for the garlic butter sauce that makes this dish extra special.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic brings that irresistible savory aroma and a bit of a punch.
• Heavy Cream: The creamy dreaminess of the sauce that makes every bite rich and indulgent.
• Parmesan Cheese: That sharp, nutty flavor that adds depth to the Alfredo sauce.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melty, gooey cheese that binds everything together and gives the dish its irresistible stretchiness.
• Italian Seasoning: The perfect blend of herbs that gives this dish a cozy, familiar flavor.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, of course! These bring out the flavors in all the ingredients and give everything a balanced, delicious finish.

(Note: The full ingredient list with measurements can be found in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Ready to create this masterpiece? Let’s dive in:

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is going to help your stuffed shells cook evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

2. Cook the Shells

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain them and set aside to cool slightly. You want them al dente because they’ll continue cooking in the oven.

3. Cook the Chicken

While the pasta shells are cooking, heat some butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until they’re fully cooked through and golden on the outside (about 6-7 minutes per side). Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This shredded chicken will be the perfect filling for those pasta shells.

4. Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt a bit more butter over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let the sauce thicken slightly. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Once thickened, add the shredded chicken into the sauce and mix to combine.

5. Stuff the Shells

Now for the fun part—stuffing those pasta shells! Take each cooked shell and spoon a generous amount of the chicken Alfredo mixture into each one. Lay them neatly in a greased baking dish, standing upright if possible.

6. Top with Mozzarella

Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the stuffed shells. Trust me, the more cheese, the better!

7. Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Take your dish out of the oven, let it cool for just a minute, and serve warm. These shells are perfect as is, or you can pair them with a crisp salad or some garlic bread to complete the meal.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to elevate your meal:

• Fresh Salads: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect contrast to the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Garlic Bread: You can never go wrong with a loaf of warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up all that extra Alfredo sauce.
• Roasted Veggies: Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli add a pop of color and nutrients to balance out the meal.
• Extra Cheese: Don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or a fresh herb like parsley on top for a pop of flavor and color.

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can cook and stuff the shells ahead of time, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with cold shells.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to sneak in some spinach, mushrooms, or peas for added flavor and texture.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers (if you have any!) can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
• Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze this dish before baking it. Just assemble everything and store it in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold.

Q2: Can I freeze these stuffed shells?
A2: Absolutely! These stuffed shells freeze beautifully. Assemble the dish, then cover and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, and you’re good to go!

Q4: What’s the best way to reheat these stuffed shells?
A4: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warm.

Q5: Can I double this recipe?
A5: Definitely! Just make sure you have a larger baking dish, and you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

Q6: Can I substitute the chicken?
A6: Of course! You can swap the chicken for ground turkey, ground beef, or even shrimp for a different flavor profile.

Q7: What side dishes pair well with stuffed shells?
A7: Think roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even a side of sautéed spinach. You could also serve with a simple garlic bread for a cozy dinner

Conclusion

And there you have it—Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or serving it to a table full of guests, this recipe never disappoints. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavors that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s so simple to make, you’ll be able to whip it up in no time, even on your busiest days. So, grab those shells, get cooking, and enjoy every bite of this cozy, crowd-pleasing masterpiece. Trust me, this dish will become one of your go-to favorites!

Print