Step-by-step instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Alfredo sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream and milk, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. Gradually add in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts smoothly. Season with ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper, then remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine cooked, shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Assemble the stuffed shells: Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken filling mixture and place them in the dish. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are thoroughly covered. Sprinkle the top with remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Best ways to enjoy it
To enjoy Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells to the fullest, serve them hot right from the oven, perhaps with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Pair the dish with a light, crisp white wine to complement the creaminess of the Alfredo sauce.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or cover the baking dish with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze any extras! Just make sure to cool them completely before sealing in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed.
Helpful cooking tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding cooked spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling.
- If you want to save time, use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making it from scratch.
- Don’t skip the nutmeg—it adds an unexpected warmth that enhances the entire dish.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with this dish! Try substituting ground turkey or Italian sausage for the chicken for a different flavor profile. You can also add some fresh vegetables, like roasted red peppers or mushrooms, into the filling for added texture and taste.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The prep time for Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells is approximately 30 minutes, with an additional 35 minutes for baking.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance, just be sure to cover them tightly and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time as they will be cold from the fridge.
What can I use if I don’t have ricotta cheese on hand?
If you’re out of ricotta, cottage cheese is a great substitute! Just blend it in a food processor for a smoother texture.
With so many delicious flavors in every bite, Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are bound to become a favorite in your household, too. Enjoy this rich, comforting dish with family and friends!
