Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Introduction
Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta, creamy Alfredo sauce, juicy chicken, and melted cheese into one irresistible dish. Each jumbo shell is generously filled with a rich chicken and cheese mixture, then baked in a velvety Alfredo sauce until bubbly and golden. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and homemade. The first time I prepared this dish, it quickly became a family favorite because it offers the familiar flavors of chicken Alfredo in a more elevated, crowd-pleasing format. The stuffed shells hold the creamy filling beautifully, ensuring every bite is balanced and flavorful. Whether you are planning a cozy weeknight dinner or preparing a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers comfort, richness, and simplicity in every serving.

Print

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Jumbo pasta shells
Large pasta shells are perfect for stuffing, holding the creamy filling securely while maintaining structure during baking.

Cooked chicken breast
Shredded or finely chopped chicken breast provides lean protein and absorbs the Alfredo flavors beautifully. Rotisserie chicken works especially well for convenience.

Ricotta cheese
Ricotta adds creaminess and a slightly sweet, delicate texture to the filling.

Mozzarella cheese
Shredded mozzarella melts smoothly and creates that classic stretchy cheese layer on top.

Parmesan cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan enhances the savory depth of the filling and sauce.

Butter
Forms the base of the Alfredo sauce, contributing richness and smoothness.

Garlic
Minced garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and depth.

Heavy cream
Heavy cream creates the luxurious texture that defines Alfredo sauce.

Cream cheese
Adds thickness and a subtle tang, making the sauce extra velvety.

Salt
Enhances and balances the creamy flavors throughout the dish.

Black pepper
Provides gentle heat and complexity.

Italian seasoning
A blend of herbs that adds aromatic flavor to the chicken filling.

Fresh parsley (optional)
Adds freshness and visual appeal when sprinkled before serving.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and lay them out on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well blended.

To prepare the Alfredo sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese, whisking until smooth. Simmer gently until slightly thickened, then add the remaining Parmesan cheese and season to taste.

Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each pasta shell with the chicken and cheese mixture and arrange them in the dish. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: Approximately 55 minutes

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, adding a small splash of cream or milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Individual portions can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is highly versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes. For a vegetable-enhanced version, add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the filling. These additions complement the creamy Alfredo sauce without overpowering it.

For a slightly lighter variation, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use part-skim mozzarella. The sauce will still be creamy but less rich.

If you enjoy a hint of spice, incorporate red pepper flakes into the Alfredo sauce or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling.

You can also experiment with different cheeses. Fontina or provolone can replace part of the mozzarella for a more complex flavor profile.

For a more indulgent twist, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top during the final minutes of baking to create a crisp, golden crust.

If preparing ahead of time, assemble the stuffed shells, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the refrigerator.

Whole wheat shells may be used for added fiber, while gluten-free pasta shells provide a suitable alternative for dietary needs.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Approximate nutrition per serving:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	650 kcal
Protein	38 g
Carbohydrates	45 g
Fat	35 g
Saturated Fat	19 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	4 g
Sodium	820 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Cook Shells Just Until Al Dente
Slightly firm pasta prevents overcooking during baking.

Balance the Sauce
Taste and adjust seasoning before assembling the dish.

Even Filling Distribution
Use a spoon or piping bag to fill shells neatly and consistently.

Do Not Overbake
Bake just until bubbly to maintain a creamy texture.

Make It Ahead
Prepare in advance for stress-free entertaining.

FAQs

Can I freeze Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?

Yes, freeze before baking for best results and bake directly from frozen with extended cooking time.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, though homemade sauce provides richer flavor and texture.

What is the best chicken to use?

Cooked, shredded chicken breast or rotisserie chicken works well.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

How do I prevent dry stuffed shells?

Ensure the shells are fully covered with sauce before baking.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, spinach and mushrooms are excellent additions.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells offer creamy indulgence, tender chicken, and perfectly baked pasta in every bite. This dish transforms classic Alfredo flavors into an impressive yet approachable meal that is ideal for gatherings or comforting family dinners. With simple preparation and adaptable ingredients, it is a recipe that delivers both satisfaction and elegance.

Hungry for more?  Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!