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Stuffed Shells 30 Minutes Easy Delicious Recipe

Stuffed Shells 30 Minutes Easy Delicious Recipe

4.8 from 13 reviews

Creamy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells are a delicious and easy-to-make meal combining tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich mixture of shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cheeses, and ranch dressing. Baked to perfection, these stuffed shells offer a perfect balance of spicy and creamy flavors, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta Shells

  • 12 jumbo pasta shells

Filling

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (plus extra for garnish)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing

Garnish

  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed shells.
  2. Cook Pasta Shells: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly so they are easier to handle.
  3. Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, buffalo sauce, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, softened cream cheese, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated and creamy.
  4. Add Ranch Dressing: Fold in the ranch dressing carefully to balance the spicy heat from the buffalo sauce and add extra creaminess to the filling.
  5. Fill Shells: Gently spoon and fill each cooked jumbo pasta shell with the creamy buffalo chicken mixture, ensuring they hold their shape without tearing.
  6. Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the stuffed shells evenly in a greased baking dish without overcrowding so they cook evenly.
  7. Bake: Cover the dish with foil to prevent the shells from drying out and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the filling is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped green onions on top for a fresh and flavorful finish before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken if short on time.
  • Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the heat level.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
  • Make sure to not overcook the pasta shells to prevent them from becoming mushy.
  • This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
  • To make ahead, assemble the shells, cover, and refrigerate; bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking cold.

Nutrition

Keywords: Buffalo chicken, stuffed shells, creamy pasta, easy dinner, baked pasta, buffalo sauce recipe