This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells recipe is a rich and creamy dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of tender pasta shells stuffed with chicken, broccoli, and Alfredo sauce, topped with melted cheese, creates a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 jar (16 oz) Alfredo sauce
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cooked broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 21 jumbo pasta shells, cooked
- 1½ – 2 cups spaghetti sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce, shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3:
Spoon the prepared mixture evenly into the cooked pasta shells, filling each one generously.
Step 4:
Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray. If using spaghetti sauce, spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish to add an extra layer of flavor.
Step 5:
Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the shells from drying out.
Step 6:
Bake the shells in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7:
Serve the stuffed shells warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish with your favorite side.
Variations
- Spinach Substitute: Swap the broccoli for cooked spinach for a different flavor profile.
- Protein Swap: Use cooked ground turkey or ham instead of chicken for a unique twist.
- Cheese Lovers’ Version: Add a layer of shredded mozzarella on top of the shells before baking for an extra cheesy finish.
Cooking Notes
- For a creamier dish, add a bit of extra Alfredo sauce to the mixture or drizzle over the shells before baking.
- Ensure the pasta shells are cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft after baking.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a simple Caesar salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of white wine or iced tea complements the creamy Alfredo flavors beautifully.
Tips
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the stuffed shells up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
- Freezing: Assemble the shells in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cooking Time:
35 minutes
Total Time:
55 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 780mg
FAQs
1. Can I use a homemade Alfredo sauce?
Yes, homemade Alfredo sauce works wonderfully in this recipe. Use about 2 cups of your favorite recipe.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells and ensure your Alfredo and spaghetti sauces are gluten-free.
3. What can I do with extra filling?
If you have leftover filling, use it as a topping for baked potatoes or spread it over slices of toasted bread for a quick snack.
4. Can I add more vegetables?
Of course! Diced mushrooms, bell peppers, or even peas would make great additions to the filling.
These Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells are creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making them a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a family dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress!
PrintChicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 jar (16 oz) Alfredo sauce
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cooked broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 21 jumbo pasta shells, cooked
- 1½ – 2 cups spaghetti sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce, shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3:
Spoon the prepared mixture evenly into the cooked pasta shells, filling each one generously.
Step 4:
Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray. If using spaghetti sauce, spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish to add an extra layer of flavor.
Step 5:
Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the shells from drying out.
Step 6:
Bake the shells in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7:
Serve the stuffed shells warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish with your favorite side.
Notes
Cooking Notes
- For a creamier dish, add a bit of extra Alfredo sauce to the mixture or drizzle over the shells before baking.
- Ensure the pasta shells are cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft after baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 420
- Sodium: 780mg
- Protein: 28g