Chef Sadie’s Ultimate Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food, loaded with tender rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy Alfredo sauce.

This detailed, step-by-step recipe will guide you through creating a mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion.

Welcome to Chef Sadie’s Kitchen: A Journey into Comfort Food

Hello, food lovers! It’s Chef Sadie here, and today, I’m excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite comfort food recipes: Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells. This dish is everything you want in a cozy, satisfying meal—oozing with cheesy goodness, packed with flavorful chicken and bacon, and topped with a decadent Alfredo sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself to a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Will Become Your Go-To Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a well-made casserole, and Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are no exception. Imagine tender pasta shells, generously stuffed with a creamy chicken and bacon mixture, then baked to perfection in a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s the kind of meal that warms your soul and leaves you wanting more.

What Makes Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe is Special?

• Ultimate Comfort Food: This dish is the epitome of comfort—creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your tastes, whether by changing the sauce or adding extra ingredients.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and freeze the leftovers for an easy meal on a busy night.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is guaranteed to impress anyone who tries it, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions.

The Heart of the Dish: Ingredients Breakdown

In the world of comfort food, the right ingredients make all the difference. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this masterpiece:

• Alfredo Sauce: The creamy, velvety Alfredo sauce is the star of this dish. While store-bought Alfredo sauce works well, I encourage you to try making your own. A homemade white wine Alfredo sauce adds an extra layer of richness and depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider using a Vodka sauce for a slight tang or Marinara for a tomato-based twist.
• Jumbo Pasta Shells: These large pasta shells are perfect for stuffing. Their ridges help hold onto the sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. If you can’t find jumbo shells, manicotti or cannelloni pasta tubes are great alternatives.
• Rotisserie Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is convenient and flavorful, making it an excellent choice for this recipe. However, if you have leftover cooked chicken breast or thighs, they’ll work just as well.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella cheese melts beautifully and creates that irresistible gooey texture we all love. While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheese offers superior melting and flavor.
• Crispy Bacon: Bacon is the ultimate flavor booster in this dish. Cook it until it’s super crispy, then crumble it into the filling for a salty, crunchy contrast to the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• Cottage Cheese or Ricotta: These cheeses add creaminess to the filling. Ricotta is a slightly sweeter alternative to cottage cheese, so choose based on your preference.
• Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds a smooth, tangy richness to the filling. Soften it before mixing to ensure it blends well with the other ingredients. Neufchatel or mascarpone cheese can be used as substitutes if desired.
• Ranch Dressing Mix: This seasoning mix adds a zesty kick to the filling. If you’re in the mood for an Italian flair, try substituting the ranch mix with powdered Italian Salad Dressing or a teaspoon of Italian seasoning.

Cooking with Chef Sadie: Step-by-Step Guide to Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

Cooking is all about enjoying the process, and with this recipe, I’ll walk you through every step to ensure your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells turn out perfectly.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, prepare your casserole dish. I like to grease mine with butter for added flavor, but cooking spray works just as well. Set the dish aside for later.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them just until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. It’s important not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven later. Once done, drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the pasta is cooking, it’s time to prepare the filling. Start by cooking your bacon until it’s crispy. Once cooked, drain the bacon on paper towels and crumble it into small pieces. Next, dice your rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces.

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the Alfredo sauce with 5 ounces of cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This will be the base for your filling.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, the softened cream cheese, crumbled bacon, and ranch dressing mix. Mix everything together until well combined. This mixture should be thick and creamy, making it easy to stuff into the pasta shells.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Now comes the fun part—assembling your casserole! Start by ladling a small amount of Alfredo sauce onto the bottom of your prepared casserole dish. This helps prevent the shells from sticking and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Next, take each cooked pasta shell and stuff it with the chicken mixture. Be generous with the filling—these shells are meant to be hearty! Once filled, arrange the shells in a single layer in the casserole dish.

Once all the shells are stuffed and arranged, pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the top. Make sure each shell is generously covered with sauce. Finally, sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the dish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dish is hot and bubbly. The cheese on top should be melted and golden brown. If you prefer a crispier top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The shells will be piping hot, so giving them a few minutes to cool will make them easier to handle.

Chef Sadie’s Tips for Perfect Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

Every chef has a few tricks up their sleeve, and I’m no different! Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells turn out perfectly every time:

• Cooking Pasta to Perfection: Make sure to cook the pasta shells just until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy during baking, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
• Softening Cream Cheese: If you find your cream cheese is too firm to mix easily, pop it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will soften it just enough to blend smoothly with the other ingredients.
• Generous with Sauce: Don’t skimp on the Alfredo sauce! Pasta tends to absorb liquid as it bakes, so adding plenty of sauce ensures your dish stays creamy and moist. If your sauce seems too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of milk, heavy cream, or evaporated milk.
• Portioning: When serving, plan for 3-4 stuffed shells per person for a hearty portion. This recipe is rich and filling, so a little goes a long way.

Variations to Keep Things Exciting

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized. Here are a few ideas to switch things up and keep your taste buds intrigued:

• Two Sauces, One Dish: If you’re like me and enjoy variety, consider making two versions of this dish in one go. Prepare two smaller casserole dishes—one topped with Alfredo sauce and the other with a tomato-based sauce like Marinara. This way, you get the best of both worlds without the extra effort.
• Spice It Up: For those who love a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce can give your dish a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to your taste, and enjoy the added warmth.
• Extra Cheesy: While the recipe already includes a good amount of mozzarella, don’t hesitate to add more if you’re a cheese lover. A sprinkling of Parmesan or Asiago on top before baking adds a nice, sharp flavor.

Storing and Reheating Your Stuffed Shells

One of the reasons I love this recipe so much is how well it stores and reheats. It’s perfect for meal prep or saving leftovers for a later date.

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through.

• Freezing: If you want to save some for a future meal, Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells freeze beautifully. To freeze, prepare the dish as directed, but stop before baking. Instead, cover the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. The dish can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
• Reheating from Frozen: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen stuffed shells, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, bake them as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re heated through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also bake them directly from frozen; just be sure to extend the cooking time by 30-40 minutes and check for doneness.

Serving Suggestions: Making Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe a Complete Meal

Now that you’ve got your main dish ready, let’s talk about what to serve alongside your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells to make it a complete and satisfying meal.

• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, green salad is the perfect way to balance the richness of this dish. I love serving it with a simple Caesar salad or a mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens cuts through the creaminess of the Alfredo sauce, making each bite more enjoyable.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pairing your stuffed shells with roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your plate. My go-to options are Brussels sprouts, broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. A drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and a roast in the oven bring out the natural sweetness of the veggies, which complements the savory pasta perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a side of garlic bread to soak up all the extra sauce. Try making Air Fryer Garlic Bread for a quick and easy option, or bake a loaf of cheesy garlic bread for something extra indulgent.
• Simple Steamed Vegetables: If you’re looking to keep things light, steamed vegetables are a great choice. Steamed broccoli, green beans, or even a medley of vegetables will complement the richness of the pasta without overwhelming the palate.
• Wine Pairing: For those who enjoy wine, a glass of crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy Alfredo sauce. If you prefer red, a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir can also be a good match.

Elevating the Recipe: Homemade Alfredo Sauce

As much as store-bought Alfredo sauce can be a time-saver, there’s something truly special about making your own. A homemade Alfredo sauce is richer, creamier, and full of flavor, elevating your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells to a new level of deliciousness. Here’s how I make my go-to Alfredo sauce:

Chef Sadie’s Signature Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Romano cheese (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken slightly.
3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Romano cheese (if using), and nutmeg. Continue to simmer, stirring frequently, until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. If you’re adding wine, stir it in at this point and let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
6. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool slightly before using it in your stuffed shells recipe.

This Alfredo sauce is luxuriously creamy with a subtle hint of garlic and cheese. The addition of Romano cheese and a splash of white wine adds depth and complexity, making it the perfect complement to the Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells.

What I’ve Learned as Chef Sadie

After years of cooking and experimenting with various recipes, I’ve picked up some valuable insights that I’d love to share with you:

1. Balance is Key: When creating a rich dish like Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells, it’s essential to balance the flavors. The creamy sauce is perfectly balanced by the salty bacon and the slight tanginess of the cream cheese. Always taste as you go to ensure all the flavors harmonize beautifully.
2. Don’t Rush the Process: Great food takes time. While this recipe is relatively simple, it’s worth taking the extra time to make your own Alfredo sauce or to ensure the pasta is cooked just right. These small steps make a big difference in the final dish.
3. Experiment with Ingredients: Don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Whether it’s using different cheeses, adding vegetables, or trying a new sauce, experimenting can lead to delicious discoveries.
4. Presentation Matters: How you present your dish can enhance the dining experience. Garnishing your casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness. Serve your stuffed shells in a beautiful casserole dish to make it look as good as it tastes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! While jumbo pasta shells are ideal for stuffing, you can use manicotti or cannelloni tubes as substitutes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. What can I substitute for cream cheese? If you’re looking for an alternative to cream cheese, Neufchatel or mascarpone cheese are great options. Both are slightly lighter but still offer a rich, creamy texture.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the stuffed shells and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests.

4. How can I make this dish lighter? To lighten up the recipe, you can use low-fat cheeses and substitute Greek yogurt for some of the cream cheese. Using a lighter Alfredo sauce or even a Marinara sauce can also reduce the richness.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from drying out. If you’re in a hurry, individual portions can be reheated in the microwave.

Final Thoughts from Chef Sadie

There’s a reason why Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells have become a beloved dish in my household—it’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, all wrapped up in tender pasta shells. It’s a dish that brings comfort and joy with every bite, making it ideal for sharing with loved ones.

Whether you’re preparing this for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just because, I hope you find as much pleasure in making and eating this dish as I do. Remember, cooking is an act of love, and when you cook with care and attention, it always shows in the final product.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking! And don’t forget to share your creations with me—I’d love to see how your Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells turn out.

Happy cooking!

With love, Chef Sadie Facebook page