Looking for a meal that combines the zesty flavor of buffalo chicken with the comfort of pasta? Look no further than these Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Shells! Packed with tender shredded chicken, creamy ricotta cheese, and spicy buffalo sauce, these stuffed shells are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this delicious and satisfying dish from scratch. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, these Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Shells are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups shredded chicken
- 1 (16 ounce) container whipped ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup Buffalo flavor sauce (such as Frank’s Red Hot)
- 16 ounces large shell pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the shell pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, whipped ricotta cheese, and Buffalo flavor sauce. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
Step 3: Stuff the Pasta Shells
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Spoon the chicken and ricotta mixture into each cooked pasta shell, filling them until they are full but not overflowing. Place the stuffed shells in the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Bake the Stuffed Shells
- In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in any remaining Buffalo flavor sauce.
- Pour the melted butter and Buffalo sauce mixture evenly over the stuffed shells in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the stuffed shells, covering them completely.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions, if desired.
- Serve the Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Shells hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Buffalo sauce to your desired level of heat. For a milder flavor, use less sauce, or for extra spice, add more.
- Cheese Variation: Feel free to use a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique flavor twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute shredded jackfruit or cooked lentils for the shredded chicken to make a vegetarian version of this dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer for this recipe. Penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni would work well.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute cooked cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles for the pasta shells to reduce the carb content.
- Use full-fat ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese instead of low-fat varieties.
- Choose a Buffalo sauce with no added sugars or make your own keto-friendly version.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto version substitutions mentioned above.
- Adjust the portion size to fit your low-carb diet goals.
With their bold buffalo flavor, creamy ricotta cheese filling, and cheesy topping, these Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Shells are a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a party, this dish is sure to be a hit. With the helpful tips and variations provided in this guide, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love!
