Embrace the Comfort of Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Casserole
Introduction to a Classic Comfort Dish
Indulge in the cozy allure of Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Casserole, a dish that marries the heartiness of pasta with the luxurious creaminess of Alfredo sauce. Inspired by the culinary legacy of Roman restaurateur Alfredo di Lelio, this recipe combines the elegance of Alfredo sauce with the homey comfort of a Midwestern casserole. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a moment of pure indulgence, this casserole celebrates the joy of eating.
Elevate Your Dining Experience
To balance the creamy richness of the casserole, complement it with a crisp green salad tossed in a lively vinaigrette. Add a splash of color and health benefits by serving steamed broccoli or a vibrant array of roasted vegetables alongside. And, of course, no pasta meal is complete without a side of warm garlic bread or crusty Italian rolls to soak up the delectable sauce.
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Casserole Recipe
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
- 24 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 cups Alfredo sauce, homemade or store-bought
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Boil the jumbo shells until al dente, drain, and cool slightly on a clean towel.
- In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each pasta shell with the chicken-cheese mixture.
- Spread 1 cup of Alfredo sauce in the baking dish, arrange stuffed shells on top, then cover with the remaining sauce.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and additional Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until golden.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley before serving.
Variations & Tips:
- Elevate your casserole by adding cooked bacon or pancetta to the filling.
- For a vegetarian twist, replace chicken with garlic-sautéed spinach and mushrooms.
- While convenient, store-bought Alfredo sauce cannot compare to the homemade version crafted with high-quality ingredients.
- For pasta perfection, cook the shells just shy of al dente; they will finish cooking in the oven to achieve the perfect texture.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply increase the baking time slightly to ensure the dish is heated through.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Casserole?
A: Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
A: While Parmesan and mozzarella are traditional choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as Fontina, Gouda, or provolone for added flavor. Adjust the quantities accordingly to suit your taste preferences.