Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

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Imagine tender pasta shells stuffed to the brim with juicy chicken, velvety ricotta, and smothered in a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce that stretches with gooey cheese in every bite. This is not your average weeknight pasta – it’s a showstopper meal that tastes like it came straight from a cozy Italian bistro. One bite into these cheesy, creamy, golden-baked shells, and you’ll know exactly why it earns the name “Million Dollar.”

Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even meal prep, these Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells bring comfort and indulgence together in a single dish. The textures are everything: crispy baked edges, a creamy filling, and a cheesy top layer that bubbles to perfection. Whether you’re craving a comforting dinner or looking for a pasta dish that steals the spotlight, this one delivers every time.

Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

• It combines two classics: chicken Alfredo and stuffed shells.
• Extra creamy and cheesy with a golden baked finish.
• Easy to make ahead for guests or busy nights.
• Kid-friendly and crowd-approved.
• Customizable with veggies or spice for a personal twist.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment)

To make these shells successfully, gather the following tools:

• Large pot – For boiling pasta shells without crowding.
• Large skillet or saucepan – To cook and mix the Alfredo sauce evenly.
• Mixing bowls – Ideal for combining the chicken and cheese filling.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch) – Provides enough space to arrange the shells without overlapping.
• Spoon or piping bag – To fill each shell with the chicken mixture cleanly.
• Aluminum foil – Helps prevent over-browning while baking.

Each tool plays a role in making the process efficient and keeping the dish looking beautiful. Skipping the baking dish or overstuffing the pot can lead to broken shells or uneven cooking.

Preparation Tips

Start by cooking your pasta shells just until al dente – overcooking makes them too soft to fill. While they cool, mix the shredded chicken with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan to create a rich filling. A piping bag or a small spoon works great for stuffing the shells neatly. Use a generous layer of Alfredo sauce at the bottom of your dish to prevent sticking, and reserve some sauce for topping. Cover with foil to bake evenly, then uncover at the end to get that signature golden cheese top.

Ingredients for this Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 egg
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Olive oil (to prevent pasta from sticking)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop cooking, then toss gently with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is well blended. This is your creamy, cheesy stuffing mixture.

Step 3: Layer the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour about 1 cup of Alfredo sauce into the bottom of the dish and spread it evenly to prevent the shells from sticking and to add moisture during baking.

Step 4: Fill the Shells

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each shell generously with the chicken and cheese mixture. Be careful not to overfill or tear the shells. Place the stuffed shells open-side up into the baking dish, nestled closely together but not overlapping.

Step 5: Top with Sauce and Cheese

Once all shells are filled and arranged, pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese over the entire dish for that signature melty topping.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Notes

For the best flavor, use freshly cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken. If using store-bought Alfredo sauce, go for a high-quality brand with minimal preservatives to keep the flavor rich and authentic. You can also sneak in finely chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms for a veggie boost without altering the creamy texture. Make sure your filling is not too runny—this helps keep the structure of the shells intact during baking.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the pasta shells: Boil just until al dente. Overcooked shells tend to rip when stuffing.
• Using watery ricotta: Drain excess liquid from ricotta or use whole milk ricotta for a thicker texture.
• Skipping the sauce base: Always line the baking dish with Alfredo to prevent the shells from drying out or sticking.
• Overfilling the shells: Keep the filling moderate to avoid tearing and ensure even cooking.
• Not covering while baking: Foil covering is crucial to retain moisture and melt the cheese gradually.

Storage Instructions

Allow the shells to cool completely before storing. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To freeze, arrange the stuffed and sauced shells in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 510 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 115mg
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?

Cooked, shredded chicken breast or rotisserie chicken are ideal for a tender, flavorful filling.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.

Can I freeze Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells?

Absolutely. Prep the dish fully, cover well, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw overnight and bake as directed.

What’s a good side dish for these stuffed shells?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or steamed green beans pair beautifully with this rich, cheesy pasta.

Is it okay to use jarred Alfredo sauce?

Yes, but choose a high-quality brand or add a touch of fresh garlic and Parmesan to enhance the flavor.

How do I avoid watery filling?

Drain any liquid from the ricotta and don’t add too much egg or moist ingredients.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes! Finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or even peas can be folded into the filling without affecting the texture.

What cheese can I substitute if I don’t have ricotta?

You can use cottage cheese (drained) or mascarpone as a ricotta alternative.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are more than just a meal—they’re a crowd-pleasing comfort food packed with rich flavor, creamy textures, and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or impressing guests, this dish offers a perfect balance of ease and indulgence. Serve it up and watch everyone reach for seconds!

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