Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines everything I enjoy about pasta bakes: creamy filling, stretchy cheese, savory sauce, and a golden top layer. Using rotisserie chicken makes the prep quick and easy, and the filling comes together in one bowl. It’s the kind of meal that feels luxurious but is surprisingly easy to throw together—and everyone always goes back for seconds.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 20–25 jumbo pasta shells

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie recommended)

• 1 cup cottage cheese

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

• 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 tablespoon dried parsley (plus more for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. Prep the oven and dish:
I preheat the oven to 375ºF and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Cook the pasta:
I boil the jumbo pasta shells until just al dente, then drain and set them aside to cool slightly.

3. Make the filling:
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the shredded chicken, cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, 1 cup of mozzarella, and dried parsley. I stir until everything is smooth and well blended.

4. Stuff the shells:
Using a spoon, I fill each cooked shell with a generous amount of the chicken and cheese mixture, then arrange them in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.

5. Add sauce and cheese:
I pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, making sure each one is fully coated. Then I sprinkle the remaining cup of mozzarella cheese on top.

6. Bake:
I bake the dish uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden around the edges.

7. Serve:
I let it rest for a few minutes before serving, and I like to garnish with extra parsley for a pop of color.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 35 minutes

• Total time: 50 minutes

• Calories (estimated): ~500–600 per serving, depending on sauce and cheese used

Variations

I sometimes swap out the cottage cheese for ricotta if I want a more traditional Italian filling. If I’m craving some extra flavor, I mix in chopped spinach or a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a twist, I’ve made this dish with shredded turkey, cooked sausage, or even leftover grilled veggies—it always turns out delicious.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days. I keep them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven at 350ºF until hot, or microwave individual portions. I sometimes add a splash of cream or milk before reheating to keep everything nice and creamy.

This dish can also be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge overnight before baking. To freeze, I assemble the shells and cover tightly with foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, I thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

FAQs

Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?

Yes, I can substitute ricotta in equal amounts for a slightly creamier and more traditional filling. Both options work beautifully.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. I often prepare the dish earlier in the day or even the night before. I cover and refrigerate it, then bake it just before serving.

What kind of Alfredo sauce should I use?

I usually use store-bought for convenience, but when I have time, I make a quick homemade Alfredo with butter, cream, and Parmesan for an extra rich flavor.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes. I assemble it, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze it before baking. When I’m ready to serve, I thaw it in the fridge and bake as usual. It freezes very well.

How do I keep the shells from tearing?

I make sure not to overcook the pasta—al dente is key. I also let them cool slightly before stuffing, which makes them easier to handle.

Conclusion

These Million Dollar Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are rich, comforting, and absolutely worth every bite. With their cheesy filling and creamy sauce, they’re perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or whenever I want something a little extra indulgent. This is the kind of dish that feels special but is easy enough to make any night of the week.

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