If you’re a fan of Buffalo wings and rich, cheesy pasta, this recipe for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells is about to become your new favorite dinner. Imagine hearty jumbo pasta shells stuffed with spicy Buffalo chicken, creamy ricotta, and a mix of cheeses, all baked in a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest, with a little extra kick.
Ingredients:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (optional – blue cheese dressing works too)
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready to bake the shells when you’re done stuffing them. - Cook the Pasta Shells:
Boil the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Once done, drain them and set them aside to cool slightly. This will make them easier to handle while stuffing. - Prepare the Buffalo Chicken Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, ricotta, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and ranch (if you’re using it). Add in the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s creamy and well combined. You’ll want the sauce to coat the chicken perfectly. - Assemble the Dish:
Spread 1/2 cup of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will keep the shells from sticking and add extra creaminess to the final dish. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with a generous portion of the buffalo chicken mixture and place them neatly in the dish. - Top It Off:
Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Then, sprinkle the rest of the shredded mozzarella on top. This ensures a melty, cheesy layer that will form as the shells bake. - Bake the Shells:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. - Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the stuffed shells with chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, spicy goodness!
Tips & Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your desired spice level. If you like it extra spicy, feel free to add more sauce or even some chopped jalapeños to the stuffing.
- Dressing Options: If you’re a blue cheese lover, swap the ranch dressing for blue cheese dressing for a more traditional Buffalo flavor.
- Make it a Meal: Serve with a side of veggies or a crisp salad to balance the richness of the stuffed shells.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells are a fun, delicious twist on your usual stuffed shell recipe. The heat from the Buffalo sauce pairs perfectly with the creamy Alfredo sauce, while the cheeses create a melty, gooey texture that will leave you wanting more. It’s a satisfying dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week — whether you’re feeding a hungry family or having friends over for game night.
Nutritional Info:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 430 per serving
- Servings: 4
FAQs for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells
1. Can I make Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells up to a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed since it’s starting cold.
2. Can I use cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a bit of extra flavor. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the buffalo sauce and other ingredients. It’s an easy shortcut without sacrificing taste.
3. Is there a gluten-free option for the pasta?
Yes! There are gluten-free jumbo pasta shells available at many grocery stores. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking them, as gluten-free pasta sometimes requires slightly different cooking times.
4. How can I make the recipe spicier?
To turn up the heat, you can add more buffalo sauce, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even some finely chopped jalapeños to the chicken mixture. For an extra kick, drizzle some hot sauce over the top just before serving!
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, you can substitute with provolone or gouda for a different twist. However, mozzarella’s melting properties make it a perfect choice for this dish, so keep that in mind when making substitutions.
6. Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Yes! These stuffed shells freeze well. After assembling, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. To bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and follow the baking instructions. If you’re baking it from frozen, you may need to add about 10-15 extra minutes of cooking time.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells are the perfect blend of bold flavor, creamy texture, and comfort food goodness. Whether you’re looking for a fun dinner to spice up your weeknight meals, or you’re hosting a gathering that will impress your guests, this dish checks all the boxes. The combination of buffalo chicken, gooey cheese, and creamy Alfredo sauce creates a satisfying meal everyone will love.
So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a hearty, flavorful dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite! Don’t forget to play around with the spice level to make it your own, and remember, a sprinkle of green onions goes a long way in adding that extra burst of freshness. Happy cooking!